Menstruation in the workplace: A cross-sectional study on menstrual impact and depression, anxiety, and stress levels among female academics

Background Academic life can place a significant psychosocial burden on staff due to heavy workloads, high performance expectations and constant pressure to be productive. Furthermore, the specific needs of female academics related to menstruation and the experiences they undergo during this period present additional challenges. In this context, examining the levels of physical and emotional impact experienced during menstruation, alongside their mental well-being, emerges as a crucial research topic that warrants consideration both for the functioning of academic institutions and for quality of working life. Objective The aim of this study is to assess the impact of menstruation on levels of depression, anxiety and stress among female academics. Methods This study was conducted with 211 women working at a public university. Descriptive statistics, independent samples t-test, correlation and logistic regression analyses were used to analyze the data. Results The study found that participants who experienced difficulty going to work during menstruation ( OR = 6.43; p = 0.041) and postponed work-related activities ( OR = 11.92; p = 0.031) were significantly more likely to experience severe anxiety. Participants who cancelled work-related travel due to menstruation were found to have a higher likelihood of experiencing severe stress ( OR = 10.79; p = 0.003) and depression ( OR = 8.02; p < 0.001). Conclusions This study showed that symptoms experienced during menstruation can negatively affect women's mental state and functionality. The findings emphasise that menstruation is a visible issue that must be considered in women's working lives and that effective regulations regarding menstruation are necessary.