Brazil Study Finds Menstrual Symptoms Cost 22 Workdays per 100 Employees

Overview

• A joint study by Essity, Great Place to Work, and Dalia released in São Paulo details how menstrual pain and related symptoms reduce on-the-job performance.
• The report estimates a productivity loss equal to 22 workdays for every 100 women on staff.
• Nine in ten workers who menstruate say their productivity drops during their period, and 59.2% have missed work because of symptoms.
• One in four respondents reported workplace penalties tied to menstruation, including pay cuts, denied promotions, harassment, or dismissal.
• Few employers address the issue, with only 8% offering support and 75% never considering it, so the study urges flexible schedules, access to pain relief and supplies, temporary job adjustments, menstrual leave, and awareness training.