How often do you  find yourself feeling unwell at work, struggling to concentrate and be productive?  Whether it’s a headache, hangover, food poisoning or the start of the flu, how likely would you be to tell your boss or co-workers that you are feeling sick and need to go home?

In a recent study conducted by the Queensland University of Technology 87% of those surveyed indicated that pain during a menstrual cycle often interfered with their work or study. But only 6.7% said they would be honest about why they needed to leave work or stay at home. But why is this the case?

The good news is we are starting to see initiatives aimed at making workplaces more inclusive. For example –  In April, Victorian government employees dealing with menstrual pain, menopausal symptoms and IVF treatments were given an extra five days sick leave as part of their Enterprise Bargaining Agreement negotiations.

Dr. Ruth Knight, a lecturer and researcher at Queensland University of Technology talks about the way ahead towards more open and equitable workplaces.