Essity, Dalia Empower Address Menstrual Health at Work

To mark International Menstrual Hygiene Day, observed on May 28, Essity and Dalia Empower have partnered to promote menstrual health and workplace equity through data-driven research and corporate initiatives in Latin America.

The initiative aims to draw attention to the lack of access to hygiene products and basic infrastructure faced by menstruating individuals, including women, trans men, non-binary people, and others, in both social and professional contexts. The goal is to encourage structural change, improve access, and normalize open discussion around menstrual health in corporate environments.

In Brazil, global hygiene and health company Essity is conducting a study in partnership with Great Place to Work (GPTW) to assess how menstruation impacts well-being and productivity in the workplace. The research includes surveys aimed at both individuals and organizations and seeks to highlight how the menstrual cycle affects professional performance. 

Cristina Ferreira, Human Resources Director, Essity Brazil, emphasizes the importance of including menstrual health in corporate policy. She noted that Essity has adopted measures such as providing menstrual products, offering flexibility during periods of intense symptoms, and establishing a “menstrual well-being room” in its Brazilian office to provide privacy and support.

In Mexico, Essity and Dalia Empower also studied the impact of menstruation in the workplace. They found that 91% of women report feeling less productive during menstruation, while only 5% reported that their employers had policies addressing menstrual health. When companies understand and respect these cycles, they promote well-being while enhancing creativity, productivity, leadership, and overall performance, says Ivana María, CEO, Dalia Empower.

Essity’s approach to menstrual equity includes ensuring access to safe and affordable products, improving sanitation infrastructure and access to clean water, advancing inclusive education on menstruation and menopause, reducing stigma around menstrual health, and supporting timely care and diagnosis. These efforts respond to global challenges, including data from UNICEF showing that 367 million children worldwide lack adequate bathroom facilities at school, which directly affects their health and dignity.