Unfortunately, this is the reality for many of us who once a month are faced with the consequences of being on our period. So how exactly do periods affect your sleep?
A survey commissioned by period products retailer Bodyform around periods at night has revealed that 29% of respondents experience worse sleep in the week leading up to their cycle, and a whopping 47% of them stated they lose on average 2-3 hours of sleep per night.
Unfortunately, lack of sleep is not the only side effect that comes with periods. Cramps, anxiety and mood swings are just some of the consequences of menstruation. These symptoms can vary in severity, yet many will have an impact on your performance at work.
Luckily, open communication around periods is becoming more and more frequent, in turn helping to bust the taboo surrounding this topic. As a result, more support for women+ who menstruate is becoming available in the workplace and some countries have even started to introduce menstrual leave (that is sick leave if you’re in chronic pain due to your period).
Spain is the first European country to approve a bill on period leave, which might become law at the end of the year. In some Southeast Asian countries, including Indonesia, Japan and South Korea, these measures are already in place – in Japan, the legislation has been in effect for over 70 years.
So, how can you ease discomfort when having to go about your working day while in pain? While we (un)patiently wait for more European countries to jump on the menstrual leave bandwagon, we can explore a few ways of easing period pain and discomfort ahead of and during the working day.
Even though exercise may be the last thing on your mind, a gentle workout before heading into the office can ease discomfort. There are a few yoga positions which are highly recommended at the start of your menstrual cycle when you’re more likely to experience heavy cramping:
These stretches should be held for 30 to 60 seconds and are best done when the body is warm, for example after a bath or shower. Other exercises that may help you ease your discomfort are:
Why not see if your workplace offers wellness courses, like yoga or Pilates too? Head there while on your lunch break as they might do wonders for you.
There’s nothing worse than wearing tight trousers when you’re bloated and the period cramps are coming in strong. Some workplaces have strict rules when it comes to the dress code but there are many items of clothing that are work appropriate yet also comfortable enough while you’re sitting down.
Buy trousers or skirts that have an elastic waist band and can stretch according to the girth of your waist. Dresses are also a great alternative especially if you go for an oversized kind; you’ll be free to move around and even have space to fit a hot water bottle underneath if necessary!
Hot water bottles or heat pads are your drawer/locker must haves when you’re menstruating. The heat brings blood flow to your pelvic area which helps relax the muscles that cause discomfort in the first place.
If you haven’t tried it before, now is your time to do so. Whip it out during those afternoons when the cramps feel a little too overwhelming.
There are a couple of massages which are great for period pains. Again, some workplaces may offer wellness treatments too and it might be a good idea to check them out before you start your day or on your lunch break.
Ask your masseuse for either one of the massages below as they’re the most effective when it comes to easing period cramps:
These are just some of the tips to make work more bearable while on your cycle. But there are many more ways to get your workplace to support you and your colleagues while being on your period. For example, check out this article on top tips to encourage your workplace to provide period products.
June
18jun10:0016:00Legal Essentials: Supporting Women at Work
18/06/2025 10:00 - 16:00(GMT+00:00)
Did you know that tribunal claims related to menopause, menstruation, fertility treatment and pregnancy loss are rising fast? Many employers don’t realise that these issues can
Many employers don’t realise that these issues can legally qualify as a disability under the Equality Act.
Yet most of these claims are avoidable with the right training, policies and action.
That’s why I’ve partnered with employment lawyer Hannah Strawbridge to deliver a full-day, live online course designed specifically for HR, DEI, and managers.
You will be able to:
Understand your legal obligations around women’s health issues
Recognise when they may be classed as a disability under the Equality Act
Take practical steps to reduce legal and reputational risk
Learn how to avoid tribunal claims
Handle health-related conversations and workplace adjustments with confidence
Create a legally compliant Women’s Health Action Plan
Whether you’re reviewing your current policies or building a strategy from scratch, this course will give you the legal clarity and practical support you need.
DATE: Wednesday 18th June
TIME: 10.00am – 4.00pm
PLACE: Zoom
19jun18:0021:00Discover How You Can Make a Difference at our eCubed Volunteer Social
19/06/2025 18:00 - 21:00(GMT+00:00)
Arch One
83 Rivington St, Shoreditch EC2A 3EY (the old Cargo)
Whatever your interests or skills, there’s a place for you on our passionate volunteer team. Together, we run inspiring
Join us for a relaxed evening of drinks, nibbles, and conversation with the eCubed team. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at what we do, how we do it, and the charities we champion.
Curious about getting involved? This is the perfect chance to throw yourself into the eCubed experience and see if it’s the right fit for you. All you need is a can-do attitude and a passion for creating positive change—everything else is a bonus.
Day : Thursday 19th June, 2025
Time: 6:00pm – 9:00pm
Location : Arch One, 83 Rivington St, Shoreditch EC2A 3EY (the old Cargo)
Simply register below, let us know any guests you’d like us to bring. We can’t wait to meet you. You’re guaranteed to meet some awesome people and hopefully be inspired to get involved or even share some new ideas – no pressure, no obligation.
26junAll DayThe Brilliance Summit 2025
26/06/2025 All Day(GMT+01:00)
De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms
The Edinburgh Suite, 61-65 Great Queen St, London WC2B 5DA
We’re proud to announce our partnership with The Brilliance Summit, an electrifying one-day event for women in leadership
This isn’t just a summit—it’s a movement.
“At The Brilliance Summit, women show up, speak up, and level up. They shake off limitations, own their presence, and lean into their next level.”
Taking place in London on Thursday, 26th June this transformative event is curated for ambitious women who lead, whether that’s in the boardroom, the business world, or within themselves.
Here’s why this matters:
We’ve seen the power of what happens when women are given space to show up fully—and this is that space.
As partners, we’re excited to offer our community a discounted ticket.
Use code WeAreTheCity2025 at checkout to access your exclusive rate.
Grab your ticket now at www.thebrilliancesummit.com
Let this be the moment you stop waiting and start owning your brilliance.
26jun08:0017:00WeAreTech Festival | Hybrid Conference
26/06/2025 08:00 - 17:00(GMT+01:00)
etc.venues, St Paul's,
200 Aldersgate St, Barbican, London, EC1A 4HD
As a hybrid event dedicated to empowering women in technology, our festival continues to break barriers and redefine industry norms. This year promises an even more exhilarating experience as we bring together women from diverse backgrounds and experiences to share knowledge, inspire one another, and create new opportunities for growth and advancement in the tech industry.
The WeAreTech Festival is a beacon of inspiration for women in the tech industry, urging them to confidently stride forward in their careers. Our goal is simple yet profound: to inspire and motivate every attendee to take bold steps towards their professional aspirations.
Throughout the day, you’ll have unparalleled access to the wisdom and insights of senior leaders in the tech field. Engage with thought-provoking discussions through our panels, where you can contribute your perspectives and glean invaluable knowledge from industry experts.
But that’s not all. The afternoon sessions are designed to put you in the driver’s seat of your learning journey. Tailor your experience to your needs and interests, shaping your path towards growth and success in the tech world.
And let’s not forget the added perks of speed networking and mentoring. Connect with like-minded individuals, forge meaningful relationships, and gain invaluable guidance from seasoned professionals who are eager to support your journey.
At the WeAreTech Festival, we believe in empowering women to embrace their potential and seize every opportunity that comes their way. Join us, and let’s embark on this transformative journey together.