The Endo Epidemic: Why Menstrual Leave is More Than Just a Luxury

As I sit here, reflecting on my own experiences with endometriosis, also known as endo, I am reminded of the countless women who have silently suffered through excruciating pain and debilitating symptoms, all while trying to maintain a normal life. It's easy to think that paid menstrual leave is an indulgence or preferential treatment if you haven't lived through the disability that abnormally painful periods create.

For me, it was a daily struggle to push through the pain, often relying on painkillers and hot-water bottles just to make it through the day. My managers were mostly understanding, but it happened so often that I felt like it was weakening my standing as a 'good' employee. The constant pressure to perform without showing signs of weakness took a toll on my mental and physical health.

One woman's story stands out in particular - Holly*, who suffered from severe endo symptoms for over two decades. She would often have to take time off work unpaid, or go part-time due to her condition. Despite her best efforts, she felt like it was affecting her career and relationships with colleagues. 'It really messed up my working life, at a time when I should have been able to focus on learning and earning,' she said.

Holly's story is not unique. Many women with endo face similar challenges, from brain fog and digestive issues to physical pain and exhaustion. It's no wonder that so many women are forced to take time off work or adjust their careers due to their condition.

So, what does this mean for employers? Paid menstrual leave may seem like an indulgence at first glance, but it could actually be a game-changer for both women and businesses. By providing a safe and supportive environment, companies can attract and retain female staff, reduce turnover rates, and promote overall well-being in the workplace.

As we delve deeper into this topic, we want to explore what working women really want - not just what they're 'meant' to want. We'll examine the intersection of menstrual leave with hustle culture, burnout, and perfectionism, and explore the ways in which these issues are intertwined.

Ultimately, paid menstrual leave is not just a luxury or a perk; it's a basic human right. It's time for us to recognize the impact that endo has on women's lives and take steps to support them. By doing so, we can create a more equitable and compassionate society - one where women are valued and empowered, both in and out of the workplace.

Endo meaning in work