Characteristics of Menstrual Health Issues of Working Women in Japan

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to review previous studies published in Japan on menstruation among working women and clarify the trends and characteristics of their health issues.
Method: A search for original articles published between 2012 and 2023 was conducted using ICHUSHI and CiNii, and 21 studies meeting our objectives were included in the analysis. The 21 articles were sorted by publication year, study design, subjects' characteristics, and subjects' age. Research trends and health issues related to menstruation among working women were then extracted and classified based on their similarities.
Results: Factors that triggered the onset of menstrual symptoms included age, night shift work, and stress. The negative effects of menstruation on employment involved inaccurate and inefficient work. Other issues found were the low utilization of social systems, such as menstrual leave, and lack of awareness among male managers. Relatively few women practiced self-care for their menstrual symptoms. Factors associated with lack of self-care included mild menstrual bleeding, menstrual symptoms, desire to avoid work interruption, and lack of awareness.
Conclusion: Education about menstruation should be provided regardless of gender, and support is needed to make self-care routine, even before menstruation begins.