Why Periods Are Still a Workplace Taboo | Menstrual Health with Talycia Nayee | Ep 95

In this episode of the Henpicked Lunch & Learn podcast, host Sally Leech is joined by menstrual health educator and speaker Talycia Nayee to explore why periods are still surrounded by silence in many workplaces.

Despite periods being a normal and natural part of life for millions of people, conversations about menstrual health often remain uncomfortable or avoided altogether in professional environments. This silence can make it harder for employees to seek support and for organisations to create inclusive workplace cultures.

In this discussion, Talycia shares insights into why the stigma around periods still exists, the barriers that prevent open conversations at work, and why greater awareness and education around menstrual health matters for both employees and employers.

The conversation also explores how workplaces can play an important role in supporting women's health by helping to normalise conversations around periods and ensuring employees feel able to speak openly about their health and wellbeing.

This episode is part of the Henpicked Lunch & Learn series, helping organisations build knowledge and confidence around women's health in the workplace.

Chapter Markers

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00:00 Introduction to the episode 01:00 Why periods are still surrounded by silence 02:40 The stigma and discomfort around talking about periods 04:10 How menstrual symptoms can affect daily life and work 06:10 Why workplaces should understand menstrual health 07:20 The wider conversation around women's health at work 09:30 The role education plays in breaking the silence 12:00 Creating more open and supportive workplace cultures 14:30 Key takeaways for organisations