Periods. For some, it’s just another part of life, something that’s easily managed with a few painkillers and a warm water bottle. But for many others, it’s a monthly battle. A battle filled with excruciating pain, discomfort and in my case, severe physical symptoms that go beyond what society often deems “normal.” Yet, despite how debilitating these experiences can be, women are often met with dismissiveness, judgment, and a lack of empathy, especially in professional environments. This needs to change.
A Painful Reality
I’ll never forget one of my most challenging experiences. I was working a shift when my period almost zapped the last breath of life out of me. Vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, and constant, crippling, agonising and debilitating pain gripped me, making it practically impossible to function normally. I was spending 30 minutes at a time in the bathroom, doubled over in pain, with colleagues and even parents pointing out how unwell I looked…pale, dry, exhausted walking as if I was in labour etc.
Despite their concern, my manager was the exact opposite. When I tried to explain my condition, advocate for myself, and request to go home (also advised by a few colleagues), I was met with a barrage of dismissive and insensitive remarks:
- “You’re looking for reasons to go home.”
- “Just take paracetamol and ibuprofen and see how you go.”
- “You’re letting the team down. We’re short-staffed.”
- “We all have our periods. Why are you making yours a big deal?”
It felt like a slap in the face. Here I was, barely able to stand, barely able to finish sentences, visibly struggling, and being told that my pain was invalid. When I finally broke down in tears and lay down in the staff room at my colleagues’ urging, that same manager walked in a couple of minutes later (don’t ask me how they knew because I was shocked when they walked into the room), clapped their hands, and ordered me back to work, saying I shouldn’t be taking unassigned breaks as it is inappropriate and being unfair to other staff members. That moment was one of my breaking points — physically and emotionally.
The Importance of Compassion
That day, the only person who showed me any real compassion was a man who worked in the domestics department. He saw me crying, writhing in pain, and struggling to get through my shift. Without hesitation, he made me a cup of raw peppermint tea and said, “I’m sorry you’re going through this. My daughter has the same experience. Here’s some tea, I hope it helps.”
In that small act of kindness, I found some strength to carry on. It was a stark contrast to the cold indifference I had received from my manager(s) and reminded me just how crucial it is to show grace to women’s wombs.
Menstrual Health is Everyone’s Responsibility
Women’s health is not just a “women’s issue”. It should concern everyone. The dismissiveness I faced wasn’t unique. So many women are forced to soldier through work, school and daily life while dealing with intense menstrual pain. Whether it’s endometriosis, fibroids, PCOS or dysmenorrhea, the struggles women face during their cycles are diverse, and many remain unseen.
It’s time for us to start listening and showing compassion. Men should clue themselves up on menstrual health and be allies and advocates for the women in their lives. Because as that one man showed me, understanding and empathy can make all the difference.
A Call for Change
To my fellow women, don’t let anyone dismiss your pain. Advocate for yourself, even in the face of ignorance. And to everyone else, please, give us grace. You may not experience what we do, but that doesn’t mean you can’t show understanding. A kind word, a listening ear, or a simple gesture of compassion can change someone’s day
Transparency Talks Truth 