A new study* reveals that menstrual symptoms are quietly derailing women’s careers, with nearly half of women (42%) stating their periods have negatively impacted their salary progression or chances of a promotion — a figure almost identical to the career impact reported for pregnancy (43%). 

The findings highlight an important but under-reported workplace inequality, with younger women bearing the brunt of the problem. Among women aged 16–25, a staggering 64% report that their period symptoms have stunted their salary and promotion opportunities.

The 9–5 workday fails to reflect women’s 28-day hormonal cycle

The traditional 9–5 working day was created nearly a century ago when 80% of the workforce was male [1]. Male hormone cycles reset every 24 hours, aligning naturally with the nation’s typical working hours, while women’s hormones operate on a 28-day cycle, impacting energy levels, mood, and cognitive performance throughout the month.

The result? Many women find it harder to consistently perform at the same level, with one in 10 women overall, and 35% of women under 35, citing their menstrual cycle as a barrier to their career growth.

“Women’s cognitive and emotional performance naturally fluctuates across the menstrual cycle,” explains Dr. Hana Patel, speaking exclusively to Superdrug Online Doctor [2]. “Rising oestrogen levels during the follicular phase and ovulation boost focus, mood, and memory, making those high-energy, demanding tasks easier. In contrast, during the late luteal and early menstrual phases, progesterone dominance and hormonal withdrawal can lead to reduced concentration, lower mood, and greater fatigue, making rigid 9–5 schedules particularly difficult to manage.”

Over a third of women are working through extreme period pain

Women working in certain sectors are feeling the impact on their salary and progression more acutely, particularly HR (61%), Sales, Media and Marketing (60%), and Architecture, Engineering and Building (59%).

The research* shows that 60% of women feel forced to hide period pain as the reason for sick leave, fearing they’ll be judged as ‘unprofessional’. Meanwhile, 37% of women say they work through extreme period pain without disclosing it at all.

A lack of support for menstrual health is causing 24% of women to reconsider their job role, with 16% calling for menstrual leave allowances.

*From Superdrug Online Doctor:  https://onlinedoctor.superdrug.com/the-workplace-health-gap.html