As a working woman, you may have experienced an unexpected period at work and found yourself without any feminine hygiene products. It can be a stressful and uncomfortable situation, but there are ways to handle it with ease.
In this article, we'll be sharing some practical tips for what to do if you need a feminine hygiene product at work and don't have any available.
Be Prepared
One of the best things you can do is to always be prepared. Keep a small pouch in your bag or desk drawer with some pads or tampons. This way, you can easily grab what you need when you need it. Additionally, consider using a menstrual cup as they are more sustainable, economical, and can be used for up to 12 hours.
Ask Your Colleagues
If you find yourself in a situation where you don't have any supplies available, don't hesitate to ask your female colleagues. Chances are they have gone through similar experiences and would be more than happy to help.
Firstly, if you work in an office, check with a person who menstruates colleague if she has any spare products you can borrow. If this isn't an option, check if your workplace has a first aid kit. Some first aid kits contain pads and tampons, but this isn't guaranteed.
Speak up
In Australia, it is not a legal requirement for workplaces to provide feminine hygiene products. However, there are initiatives and campaigns advocating for workplace provision of these products, recognising it as an important aspect of promoting menstrual equity and supporting women’s health and well-being. The Australian Government Department of Health has developed guidelines on the provision of sanitary products in healthcare settings, which can provide a good starting point for employers.
If your workplace doesn't provide feminine hygiene products, it's worth asking your employer to consider introducing them. In fact, some Australian states and territories have introduced laws mandating that employers provide feminine hygiene products for their female employees.
In 2019, the Victorian Government passed the Gender Equality Act, which requires all public sector workplaces to provide free pads and tampons for female employees. The ACT also introduced similar laws in 2020, while other states and territories are considering following suit.
If your workplace doesn't have policies or programs in place to provide feminine hygiene products, consider starting a conversation with your employer or HR department. You could suggest implementing a free dispenser in the bathroom or creating a designated area where products can be accessed. Some companies also offer subscription services that deliver feminine hygiene products to your workplace, so it's worth researching this option too.
If you find yourself in a situation where you need a feminine hygiene product at work, don't panic. If your workplace doesn't provide products, consider advocating for change and introducing policies or programs that support menstrual health. Remember, when you prioritise your health and well-being, you can thrive in all areas of your life.
To thrive in the workplace, it's important to prioritise your health and well-being, including your menstrual health. Don't let an unexpected period derail your workday. Take the necessary steps to prepare for the unexpected and advocate for workplace policies that support your needs.
