WHAT IS DYSMENORRHEA?

Dysmenorrhea refers to any pain that occurs just before or during menstruation. It can range from a mild, ongoing ache to severe pain that interferes with daily activities.

There are two types of dysmenorrhea: primary, which occurs with regular menstrual cycles and typically starts in adolescence, and secondary, which can result from underlying health conditions like endometriosis or PCOS (Harel, 2006).

Understanding your body and recognising the signs can help you advocate for your diagnosis and get your life back. Periods are not supposed to take over your life.

WHAT IS MENSTRUATION?

Menstruation is a natural biological process where the uterus sheds its lining, resulting in a monthly period. This cycle typically occurs every 28 to 35 days but can vary for each individual. Menstruation is part of the reproductive system’s way of preparing the body for potential pregnancy. While it’s a normal process, the experience of menstruation varies, and for some, this brings upon extremely debilitating pain.

HOW MUCH PAIN IS NORMAL?

Menstrual pain can be common, but the severity differs for everyone. Mild cramping that can be relieved with over-the-counter pain relief is generally considered typical. However, if the pain prevents you from going to work, school, or participating in daily activities, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider. Severe pain is not something you should endure in silence—it could be a sign of an underlying condition like endometriosis or adenomyosis (ACOG, 2020).

SHOULD I ASK FOR HELP? WHERE?

Absolutely. If dysmenorrhea or your periods are disrupting your life, it’s important to seek help. This is not normal. You can start by talking to your GP, a gynecologist, or even a workplace wellness advisor if you feel comfortable. More menstruators than we realise are dealing with greater than should-be-accepted pain - reach out and talk to your loved ones, they are likely to relate. You deserve to feel empowered to seek support—whether it’s for better pain management, emotional support, or workplace accommodations.

WHAT IS EQUITY, IN A WORKPLACE CONTEXT?

Workplace equity means ensuring that all employees, regardless of gender or health conditions, have access to the same opportunities, treatment, and support. In the context of dysmenorrhea, equity could mean having these important discussions, offering flexible work arrangements, access to menstrual health products, or simply creating a culture where menstruation isn’t stigmatised. Equity acknowledges that people have different needs and experiences, and it seeks to accommodate those in a way that promotes fairness and inclusion (Roberson, 2006).

HOW COME NO ONE IS TALKING ABOUT THIS?

There are many reasons why conversations about dysmenorrhea and menstruation are still rare in the workplace. Menstrual health has historically been stigmatised, viewed as a private issue, or even dismissed as irrelevant to work. Many people also fear being seen as “less capable” if they discuss health issues like dysmenorrhea. That’s why we’re creating space for these conversations through Bloody Strong—because your health is a priority, and it’s time we bring it into the light.