One of the biggest tools we have for tackling taboo topics is normalising conversations about it. Whether it’s in a meeting or over lunch with coworkers, talk about your menstrual cycle like you would the weather (ok maybe not exactly like the weather). It could be the cramps you’re experiencing that are causing you heaps of pain, or your PMS that’s making you want to break up with your partner, or you’re in your follicular phase and loving life – whatever it is, talking about it will help break down the stigma around something that is so normal for half the population.

At our desk we have a period draw full of tampons, pads, heat packs and medication. People in the office love it and will come take whatever products they need. The Victorian government recently announced that pads and tampons will soon be available for free across the state. There will be 1,450 vending machines in up to 700 public spaces. This is incredible news and something workplaces should feel inspired by. Providing period products in your workplace not only normalises cycles at work, it also validates that menstrual products are a necessity and not a luxury.

So many people who menstruate suffer from chronic pain, PMS or PMDD, so – if you’re a manager or employer – allowing people to be flexible with their day, work from home or take leave is super important.

Five of my co-workers and I have each other on Stardust (a menstrual tracking app). We can see when each of us are on our periods, or the different phases we’re in, whether that’s follicular, ovulation or the luteal phase. And my old boss even had a calendar with the whole team’s cycles. Knowing where your employees or your co-workers are at makes it easier to understand their capacity for that day and helps you change workflows or plan better. Everyone at work knows if I’m about to get my period I’m super irritable, moody, in pain and don’t have a lot of energy. But in my follicular/ovulation phase I’m so proactive, energetic and patient (I hope). Knowing this about each other means you can be more understanding and do your best work.