Most people wouldn’t think of their period as a work-related issue, but for many women, it can be just that. They already have enough to deal with when their period shows up (tender breasts, cramps, and bloating—to name a few), and they don’t need the stress of trying to handle it in an office-like location. Here are some things you can do if you find yourself facing problems associated with your period at work this month:
1. Get a period kit to have on hand at work.
When you have a period, you need to be prepared. A menstrual kit will contain the necessary items for dealing with your period while at work, such as tampons or pads, vaginal moisturizers, feminine wash, and a small bag or purse to carry them in. This way you do not need to run errands during work hours just because your menstruation has started unexpectedly.
2. Keep an extra pair of panties and clothes on your desk.
Keeping a spare pair of panties and a clean shirt at work will eliminate the need to run home if you get your period while you are away from home. You can put these items in a drawer or leave them on top so that they are out of your way but are accessible enough, should the need arise.
3. Plan ahead for your menstrual cycle.
If you are aware of what time of the month your period will start, plan ahead by putting in a tampon before leaving for work. This way you don’t have to worry about rushing to put one on when you get there or passing up great opportunities because you don’t want to be caught without one. You can also avoid showing up at work unprepared for your period by always leaving early enough to arrive with time to spare.
4. Try a day planner or other ways to keep track of your period so you can plan accordingly.
If you have a busy schedule, it may be difficult for you to remember when your period will start and end each month. In order to avoid the stress that comes with an unexpectedly early period, you can use a handwritten calendar or an app on your phone to keep track. If your schedule is hectic and there are days when you cannot remember what day it is, many girls find success with pairing their period due dates with their monthly planner’s date because they know that the time of the month will never sneak up on them.
5. Use a menstrual cup.
A menstrual cup is a flexible cup worn inside the vagina during menstruation to collect menstrual fluid. They are usually made of silicone, rubber, or latex. Wearing this to work instead of a tampon or pad will prevent you from having a stained blouse that stares at your co-workers all day, and/or a wet spot that may be visible through your clothing. Just remember to empty your menstrual cup every four to eight hours.
6. Keep pain relievers like Advil in your desk drawer for emergencies.
It is recommended that women keep pain relievers like Advil at their desks at work in case they get cramps, headaches, or menstrual pain. This way you will be able to simply take one when needed instead of having to make a trip across the street to buy some during your lunch break.
7. Wear dark clothing if the bleeding is heavy.
Heavy periods can be a problem for women when they are at work. You can keep from being embarrassed by wearing dark-colored clothing when the bleeding is heavy so that no one will notice when you have to go change products.
8. Take care of yourself — take breaks, drink water, and eat healthy foods.
It is important to remember that you are not alone in this. You can rely on your co-workers and managers for help if you need it by letting them know about any special needs you may have. Take care of yourself so that you can take care of business!
9. Talk to your boss about adjusting your schedule or taking time off when necessary.
You are entitled to special accommodations when you have your period. If you need to change your schedule for menstrual-related problems, discuss it with your employer so that there are no hard feelings. You can legitimately ask to be given time off or adjusted hours if necessary so that the problem doesn’t interfere with your work.
Periods can be a huge inconvenience for women, especially when they are at work. Fortunately, there are several ways to address these problems so that you don’t have to deal with them alone. We’ve provided some helpful tips and tricks in this article on how to manage your period while working so that it doesn’t interfere with your responsibilities too much.