7 tips to excel at your work during periods

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Wouldn’t it be great if we had a technology that could help predict our exact monthly period date? It would save us from so much trouble. Running about looking for a sanitary napkin or tampon when you realize that your monthly period just started at the most unwanted time and the place is nothing less than an ordeal. We all have been in that situation when our periods started at the workplace. It’s a daunting position, but something that simply can’t be avoided. However, we can take steps to make our workplace a period friendly place for all women.  

Keep a period kit

Always carry a sanitary pad or tampon in your bag — even when your period isn’t due. Periods can be unpredictable, and having your essentials ready makes life easier.

Include sanitary wipes, hand sanitizer, and extra underwear in your kit. Some offices have pad dispensers — if not, coordinate with your HR or female colleagues to create a shared period kit. It’s a small effort that can save the day.

Keep Pain Relief Medicines at Work

If menstrual cramps interrupt your workflow, mild pain relief tablets can help you stay focused. While it’s best to avoid frequent medication, having them on hand for tough days can make work easier.

Use a Hot Water Bottle

Yes, this one is a must. You need to ensure that the 8-9 hours that you spend at the job during your period days are comfortable and untroubled, so it doesn’t affect your work and efficiency. So carry your hot water bottle to keep you warm, relaxed, and ease the menstrual cramps and aches.

Herbal Tea

Warm herbal teas like ginger, peppermint, chamomile, or raspberry leaf tea can reduce bloating and calm menstrual discomfort. Have 2–3 cups during the day to stay relaxed and hydrated.

Dark Chocolate

We all need a bit of pampering during periods and why not. Dark chocolate is rich in magnesium and helps to ease menstrual cramps. Dark chocolate helps to reduce stress during your periods and boost your mood. So don’t forget to carry a bar of dark chocolate to work, it’s a great way to satisfy your carving and raise your energy levels.

Plan your work ahead

The first two days can be draining. Try to plan light tasks, avoid big meetings, and allow flexibility in your schedule. If you’re feeling exhausted, take a day off — rest is part of productivity.

Period buddy

Having someone who understands what you’re going through can make a big difference. Talk to a trusted colleague or friend at work. Sharing your thoughts or simply having a short tea break together can lift your mood instantly.

Conclusion

A little preparation goes a long way in managing your period at work. By planning ahead, taking care of your comfort, and supporting one another, you can stay focused and confident even on difficult days.

With these small changes, your workplace can become a space where you thrive — every day of the month.

 

FAQ’s

Menstrual cramps can seriously interrupt focus. The blog suggests keeping mild pain-relief tablets at work so you can take them when needed — this helps ease the pain and lets you remain productive without constantly cutting your day short.

Yes — a hot water bottle is a simple but effective tool to manage cramps and aches while working. Sofy recommends carrying one to keep you warm and relaxed, which can help ease discomfort during long work hours.

Sofy advises drinking herbal teas like ginger, peppermint, chamomile, or raspberry-leaf tea during the day. These teas can reduce bloating and calm menstrual discomfort, allowing you to feel more relaxed and focused at work.

Dark chocolate is rich in magnesium, which may ease menstrual cramps. Sofy suggests carrying a small bar to work—it can act as a mood booster, help reduce stress, and satisfy cravings without undoing your productivity.

Absolutely. Sofy recommends planning lighter tasks for the first two days, when you may feel more drained. Avoid scheduling major meetings or high-stakes work during that time. Prioritizing rest — or even taking a day off — is a smart way to remain productive long-term.

A “period buddy” is someone at work — a trusted colleague or friend — who understands what you’re going through. Talking to them, having a tea break together, or simply venting can lift your spirits and make you feel more supported, according to Sofy.

While Sofy doesn’t give an exact hourly schedule for changes in this blog, from their other guidance, it's safe to infer that you should change pads or tampons every 4–6 hours, or earlier if they feel saturated or uncomfortable.

Yes — Sofy suggests having a mild painkiller stash in your work kit for difficult days. While it's best not to rely on medication all the time, having the option helps you manage intense cramps or pain discreetly and effectively.

Small changes can help significantly: keep a shared period kit with essentials, talk to HR about stocking sanitary products, and encourage a culture of understanding. According to Sofy, these steps help you and others feel more comfortable, supported, and confident.

About Author

Dr. Kanika Jain

Dr. Kanika Jain is a highly qualified and experienced medical professional specializing in Obstetrics and Gynaecology. She holds an MBBS degree from Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, and further pursued DGO from Stanley Medical College. She completed her DNB in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Chanandevi Hospital, Delhi.