By Lauren Sharp, Founder & Director of Sharp People
Imagine a world where men experienced menstrual cycles and eventually went through menopause. How would this biological shift influence workplace dynamics, policies, and societal attitudes? While this might seem like a whimsical thought experiment, it can shed light on the deeply ingrained gender biases that exist in professional environments today. By flipping the script, let’s explore how different the narrative might be if men had to navigate these natural, yet often stigmatised, experiences—strap in because this alternate universe is about to get real!
If men got their periods, the conversation around menstruation would likely be far more open and mainstream. Instead of whispered requests for tampons or covert trips to the bathroom, we might see public dispensers for hygiene products in every workplace restroom—without stigma. There’d be “Crimson Warrior” badges for those showing up during their cycle. Whole teams would take coordinated “Red Week” leave, and companies would compete for “Best Menstrual Benefits” at the annual Corporate Period Awards. Adverts for sanitary products could take on a bold and athletic tone, showcasing men continuing their daily routines with pride. Perhaps, “Pads for Lads” could be the next big brand, complete with sports endorsements and heroic commercials. I can see a footballer now promoting “Pads for Lads, on your Heavy Days.”
In a world where men menstruate, language might also shift. Phrases like “time of the month” could be rebranded into something more empowering or even humorous—how about “Shark Week” making its way into official HR lexicon? Instead of shying away from discussing symptoms, men might engage in competitive banter about whose cramps are worse, turning discomfort into camaraderie. Imagine an office email thread titled “Cramps & Champs” where colleagues share tips on surviving meetings during peak period days. Meeting agendas would include “mood check-ins” to gauge whether it’s a good day for feedback. During presentations, it wouldn’t be odd to hear: “Sorry, I lost my train of thought. Menopausal brain fog, you know?” And everyone would nod in sage understanding.
The workplace itself would likely look very different. If men experienced menstrual cycles and menopause, paid menstrual leave might not only exist but could be a universal standard. Companies could offer ‘cycle-friendly’ benefits, including flexible schedules, work-from-home days, or even dedicated rest areas for when symptoms become overwhelming. “Flow Days” could become a common part of corporate lingo, akin to annual leave or sick days. Forget nap pods. Every office would have plush “Menopause Lounges” complete with temperature control, cooling blankets, and fans powerful enough to simulate a wind tunnel. During a hot flush, Steve from accounting would be seen standing in front of an open freezer, declaring, “It’s not me, it’s my hormones!”
I can see my boardroom bingo card growing!
Imagine a Slack status reading: “On a Flow Day—approach only if bearing snacks or sympathy.” Historically, medical research has often overlooked female-specific health issues, but if men experienced menstruation and menopause, funding and research in these areas would likely skyrocket. Pharmaceutical companies might prioritise developing treatments for symptoms, and the medical community could be more proactive in offering support and solutions. The little blue pill might not just be for ‘performance’ anymore—it could double as a cramp relief tablet, complete with a catchy jingle: “Pop one and conquer!”
If men went through these biological processes, societal attitudes could shift significantly. Instead of seeing menstruation as a sign of weakness or menopause as a loss of vitality, these experiences might be celebrated as markers of growth and maturity. Instead of coffee breaks, there’d be “Self-Care Moments.” The break room would have a range of herbal teas, essential oils, and perhaps a retired therapy dog named Harvey to snuggle when hormones are all over the place. Rituals or rites of passage could emerge, acknowledging these milestones with respect and dignity—perhaps even “Man of the Month” awards for those who handle their cycle with the most poise under pressure.
In today’s world, many women feel pressured to hide symptoms of menstruation or menopause to avoid being perceived as less capable. However, if men experienced these phenomena, it’s possible that demonstrating vulnerability or managing physical discomfort while maintaining professionalism could be seen as a strength. Just as we now have mental health champions, there’d be “Menstrual Champions” who advocate for cycle-syncing project timelines. Imagine: “Let’s not schedule that big pitch during Craig’s PMS week—he’s our best closer, and we need him at 100%!”
Executive meetings might kick off with icebreakers like, “On a scale from ‘crampy’ to ‘curling under the desk,’ how are we feeling today?” A workplace more accommodating to menstruation and menopause would benefit all employees. By normalising discussions around these topics, we could create more inclusive and compassionate environments. If men led the charge, it could accelerate changes in policies and perceptions, setting a precedent that benefits everyone. Watercooler chat would include phrases like, “I’m in my luteal phase, don’t test me,” and “Just got through my menopause transition—feeling reborn!” HR training would involve workshops on “Navigating Hormonal Communication in the Workplace.”
By highlighting how absurd some of the current stigmas truly are, and perhaps by envisioning “Manopause” and all the hypothetical policies and practices that might emerge, we can advocate for real-world changes that benefit everyone, not just in the workplace but across all aspects of life.
So let’s get these team-building exercises booked in, and we can include hormone-friendly activities like “Build Your Own Blanket Fort” and “Office Cry Circle.” There might even be an annual “Hormonal Health Retreat” at a spa with unlimited massages and weighted blankets. And who knows? Maybe one day we’ll live in a world where saying, “I’m on my period” at work is as casual as announcing you’re popping out for a coffee—except in this world, you might just get a round of applause and a standing ovation for showing up at all!