The Association Between Menstrual Disorders and Workforce Participation: A Prospective Longitudinal Study
Biresaw Wassihun Alemu1, Michael Waller1, Leigh R Tooth1
1Australian Women and Girl's Health Research Centre, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
BJOG : an International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
|February 25, 2025
Summary
Menstrual disorders significantly impact workforce participation in Australian women. Age modifies these associations, highlighting the need for greater awareness to improve women's employment engagement.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Sociology of Work
- Public Health
Background:
- Menstrual disorders are prevalent and can affect daily functioning.
- Workforce participation is crucial for economic independence and well-being.
- The interplay between menstrual health and employment remains under-researched.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between menstrual disorders and workforce participation among Australian women.
- To explore how age influences these associations.
Main Methods:
- Population-based cohort study utilizing longitudinal survey data from 11,152 Australian women (born 1973-1978).
- Data collected between 2000 and 2021, measuring menstrual disorders and workforce participation.
- Statistical analysis employed generalized estimating equations, stratified by age.
Main Results:
- Premenstrual tension was linked to lower odds of part-time work, especially in women aged 31-40.
- Irregular periods showed mixed associations with part-time work depending on age group.
- Severe period pain increased odds of unemployment, particularly in women aged 41+.
Conclusions:
- Significant variations exist in how menstrual disorders affect workforce participation, with age playing a key role.
- Understanding these age-specific associations is vital for supporting women in the workforce.
- Further research and increased awareness can enhance women's employment engagement.
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