Good Intentions, Poor Execution? Why Current Workplace Policies on Menstrual and Menopausal Health Fall Short

Reinhardt, Anne ; Adler, Hannah; Howe, Danielle; Mardon, Amelia K.; O'Shea, Michelle und Armour, Mike (2026): Good Intentions, Poor Execution? Why Current Workplace Policies on Menstrual and Menopausal Health Fall Short. In: Women's Reproductive Health, Vol. 13, No. 2: pp. 292-303

Abstract

Menstrual and menopausal workplace policies are vital for equity and well-being at the workplace—but remain uneven, underdeveloped, and rarely evaluated. While menopause has gained attention, menstruation and menstrual disorders are often overlooked. This commentary explores why menopause has become the more “acceptable” entry point and how this reflects broader stigma and power dynamics. We argue for inclusive, evidence-based policies that (1) address menstrual stigma, (2) promote leadership awareness, (3) use intersectional, participatory approaches, (4) embed thorough evaluation frameworks, and (5) go beyond leave policies to reframe reproductive health as a shared organizational concern and not as an individual burden.

• Item Type: Journal article
• Keywords: Menstruation; menopause; menstrual disorders; workplace policies; stigma
• Faculties: Social Sciences > Department of Communications and Media (IfKW)
• Subjects: 300 Social sciences > 380 Commerce, communications and transportation
• ISSN: 2329-3691
• Language: English