Author(s):
Dipti Das, Malini Mondal, Swagata Ghosh
Email(s):
dipti13114@aiimspatna.org
DOI:
10.52711/2454-2660.2026.00032 
Address:
Dipti Das1*, Malini Mondal2, Swagata Ghosh3
1College of Nursing, AIIMS, Patna, Bihar, India.
2IQ City Institute of Nursing Sciences, Durgapur, West Bengal, India.
3R.G. Kar Medical College & Hospital, Kolkata, West Bengal, India.
*Corresponding Author
Published In:
Volume - 14,
Issue - 2,
Year - 2026
ABSTRACT:
Menstruation is a physiological and cyclical process characterized by periodic uterine bleeding, regulated by hormonal changes. While it is a normal aspect of female reproductive health, menstruation—particularly when associated with dysmenorrhea—can result in significant physical discomfort and emotional distress. Dysmenorrhea, marked by lower abdominal pain due to uterine muscle contractions, is among the most prevalent menstrual problems and can impair women's quality of life. These symptoms often lead to disruptions in daily activities, decreased productivity, and psychological consequences such as stress, anxiety, and mood disturbances. Among working women, the impact of menstruation extends beyond physical discomfort, as it intersects with occupational stressors, workplace demands, and a lack of institutional or peer support. The stigma and silence surrounding menstruation further intensify these challenges, often preventing women from seeking appropriate help or accommodations. Despite menstruation affecting nearly half of the global workforce, its psychological and occupational implications remain underrepresented in research and workplace policy discussions. This review article explores the relationship between menstruation-related symptoms—especially dysmenorrhea—and psychosocial stress among female workers. It highlights how the menstrual cycle can influence mental health, reduce work performance, and contribute to emotional exhaustion in professional settings. By emphasizing the need for inclusive workplace practices, increased awareness, and focused research, the paper advocates for integrating menstrual health into occupational health frameworks. Addressing these issues is crucial to improving women’s overall well-being, job satisfaction, and long-term productivity in the workplace.
Cite this article:
Dipti Das, Malini Mondal, Swagata Ghosh. Navigating Menstruation at Work: Psychological Distress and Occupational Strain. International Journal of Nursing Education and Research. 2026;14(2):164-6. doi: 10.52711/2454-2660.2026.00032
Cite(Electronic):
Dipti Das, Malini Mondal, Swagata Ghosh. Navigating Menstruation at Work: Psychological Distress and Occupational Strain. International Journal of Nursing Education and Research. 2026;14(2):164-6. doi: 10.52711/2454-2660.2026.00032 Available on: https://www.ijneronline.com/AbstractView.aspx?PID=2026-14-2-15
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