Sponsor
Portland State University. Department of Psychology
First Advisor
Tori Crain
Term of Graduation
Spring 2025
Date of Publication
6-9-2025
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Applied Psychology
Department
Psychology
Language
English
Subjects
burnout, cognitive demand, menstruation, stigma, work behavior
DOI
10.15760/etd.3974
Physical Description
1 online resource (vi, 109 pages)
Abstract
Painful menstrual symptoms affect up to 90% of people with uteruses globally. These symptoms can result in lost productivity at work and absenteeism for working individuals. Normative work structures have not been designed with accessibility and inclusivity for those with uteruses in mind. Therefore, women and those with uteruses have often had to work through barriers with no accommodations or systematic change. Currently, there is no published research in the United States on the nuances of the relationship between menstruation and work with the intention of exploring effective solutions. There has been discussion related to menstrual supportive policies, but there is not enough foundational research to begin developing interventions. The purpose of this dissertation was to gather preliminary evidence related to how menstruation affects work outcomes with the aim of creating changes that support uterine reproductive health and benefit the wellness and productivity of employees as well as the prosperity of organizations. This study employed an experience sampling methodology (ESM) to gather data about daily experiences related to menstruation and work and support needs throughout their menstrual cycle. The results demonstrated significant negative relationships between menstrual symptomology and job outcomes, as well as positive relationships with psychological experiences. The qualitative themes based on the analysis of support needs are also described. The summary of findings is followed by the theoretical and practical implications. Lastly, the study's limitations and future directions are discussed. This dissertation represents an important first step toward better reproductive health support in work contexts.
Rights
© 2025 Emily Julia Ready
In Copyright. URI: http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/ This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s).
Persistent Identifier
https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/43916
Recommended Citation
Ready, Emily Julia, "Reproductive Rights at Work: The Role of Organizations in Menstrual Support" (2025). Dissertations and Theses. Paper 6883.
https://doi.org/10.15760/etd.3974
