Calling in Sick Due to Your Period: What to Say and How to Do It Right

Let’s face it: periods can be debilitating. For many women, the monthly menstrual cycle brings with it a range of symptoms that can make functioning at work or other commitments nearly impossible. From excruciating cramps and heavy bleeding to nausea, fatigue, and migraines, period symptoms can significantly impact your ability to perform your job effectively. But what do you do when you genuinely need to call in sick because of your period? The stigma surrounding menstruation often makes women feel ashamed or hesitant to disclose the real reason for their absence. This article aims to empower you with the knowledge and strategies to confidently and professionally navigate calling in sick due to period-related symptoms.

Understanding Period-Related Symptoms and Their Impact

Before diving into the specifics of what to say, it’s crucial to understand the range of symptoms that can warrant a sick day. Period symptoms vary greatly from person to person, and what might be a minor inconvenience for one woman can be severely incapacitating for another. Common period symptoms that can justify taking a sick day include:

* **Severe Cramps (Dysmenorrhea):** These cramps can be so intense that they interfere with concentration, movement, and overall productivity. Pain medications may not always provide sufficient relief.
* **Heavy Bleeding (Menorrhagia):** Excessive bleeding can lead to anemia, fatigue, and the need for frequent bathroom breaks, making it difficult to focus on work tasks.
* **Nausea and Vomiting:** Hormonal fluctuations during menstruation can trigger nausea and vomiting, making it challenging to perform any work-related activities.
* **Migraines and Headaches:** Period-related migraines can be debilitating, causing throbbing head pain, sensitivity to light and sound, and nausea.
* **Fatigue:** Extreme tiredness and lack of energy can make it difficult to concentrate and complete tasks efficiently.
* **Mood Swings and Irritability:** Hormonal changes can lead to mood swings, irritability, and difficulty managing emotions, impacting workplace interactions.
* **Endometriosis Flare-Ups:** Women with endometriosis may experience significant pain and discomfort during their periods, requiring time off for rest and pain management.
* **Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD):** PMDD is a severe form of PMS that can cause significant mood disturbances, anxiety, and depression, requiring time off for mental health.

It’s important to remember that your experience is valid. If your period symptoms are significantly impacting your ability to work, you are justified in taking a sick day.

Preparing to Call in Sick

Before picking up the phone (or sending an email), take some time to prepare yourself. This will help you communicate clearly and confidently.

**1. Review Your Company’s Sick Leave Policy:**

* Familiarize yourself with your company’s policy on sick leave, including the number of sick days you are entitled to, the procedures for reporting an absence, and any required documentation (such as a doctor’s note).
* Understanding the policy will help you avoid any misunderstandings or potential issues.

**2. Assess Your Symptoms:**

* Honestly evaluate the severity of your symptoms. Are they manageable, or are they significantly interfering with your ability to perform your job duties?
* Consider whether you can work from home if that’s an option, or if you genuinely need to take the day off to rest and recover.

**3. Decide on Your Level of Disclosure:**

* This is a personal decision. You are not obligated to disclose the specific reason for your absence. You can choose to be vague or more specific, depending on your comfort level and your relationship with your manager.
* We’ll discuss different options for what to say in the next section.

**4. Plan Ahead (If Possible):**

* If you experience predictable period symptoms, try to anticipate when you might need to take a sick day.
* Consider scheduling important meetings or deadlines around your expected period dates to minimize disruption if you need to call in sick.

**5. Prepare a Brief Explanation of Your Workload Status:**

* Quickly consider if there are any urgent tasks or deadlines that need immediate attention. Prepare a brief summary to share with your manager or colleagues to ensure a smooth workflow in your absence.
* Suggest a colleague who might be able to cover your essential responsibilities.

What to Say When Calling in Sick (Examples and Templates)

Here are several options for what to say when calling in sick due to your period, ranging from vague to more specific. Choose the option that feels most comfortable and appropriate for your situation and workplace culture:

**Option 1: Vague and General**

* **Focus:** Simply stating you’re unwell and unable to work.
* **Suitable for:** Conservative workplaces or when you prefer privacy.
* **Examples:**
* “Hi [Manager’s Name], I’m calling in sick today. I’m not feeling well and won’t be able to come into the office.”
* “Good morning, [Manager’s Name]. I woke up feeling unwell and need to take a sick day.”
* “Hi [Manager’s Name], I’m not feeling up to coming in today. I’m going to take a sick day to rest.”
* **Follow-up:** “I’ll check my email periodically for urgent matters. Otherwise, I’ll be back in the office tomorrow.”

**Option 2: Slightly More Specific (Without Mentioning Period)**

* **Focus:** Mentioning general symptoms without revealing the cause.
* **Suitable for:** When you want to provide a bit more information but still maintain privacy.
* **Examples:**
* “Hi [Manager’s Name], I’m calling in sick today. I have severe cramps and am unable to concentrate.”
* “Good morning, [Manager’s Name]. I woke up with a terrible headache and nausea and need to take a sick day.”
* “Hi [Manager’s Name], I’m experiencing some severe stomach issues and won’t be able to come in today.”
* **Follow-up:** “I’ve already notified [Colleague’s Name] about [Task] so they can cover it. I’ll be available via email if needed.”

**Option 3: Using the Phrase “Women’s Health Issue”**

* **Focus:** Implying a health issue related to being female without going into detail.
* **Suitable for:** Workplaces where there’s a moderate level of comfort discussing health matters, but you still prefer not to mention your period directly.
* **Examples:**
* “Hi [Manager’s Name], I need to call in sick today due to a women’s health issue.”
* “Good morning, [Manager’s Name]. I won’t be able to come in today due to a women’s health issue that requires me to stay home.”
* “Hi [Manager’s Name], I’m taking a sick day for a women’s health issue. I expect to be back tomorrow.”
* **Follow-up:** “I’ve completed [Task] already. [Colleague’s Name] is aware of my absence and will be able to assist with any urgent requests.”

**Option 4: Directly Mentioning Your Period (If Comfortable)**

* **Focus:** Being direct and honest about the reason for your absence.
* **Suitable for:** Open and supportive workplaces where you feel comfortable discussing menstruation.
* **Examples:**
* “Hi [Manager’s Name], I’m calling in sick today due to severe period cramps. I’m unable to work comfortably.”
* “Good morning, [Manager’s Name]. I need to take a sick day because I’m experiencing a really heavy flow and pain related to my period.”
* “Hi [Manager’s Name], I’m calling in sick today. I’m having a particularly bad period with migraines and nausea.”
* **Follow-up:** “I’ve checked in with [Colleague’s Name] regarding my ongoing projects and responsibilities. I will respond to emails as my energy allows.”

**Key Phrases and Words to Use:**

* “I’m not feeling well.”
* “I need to take a sick day.”
* “I’m experiencing [specific symptom, if desired].”
* “I’m unable to concentrate.”
* “I need to rest and recover.”
* “Women’s health issue.”
* “Period cramps/pain/heavy flow.”

**Key Phrases and Words to Avoid:**

* Over-explaining or apologizing excessively.
* Providing unnecessary details.
* Downplaying your symptoms.
* Lying about the reason for your absence (stick to period-related symptoms).

**Important Considerations:**

* **Your Relationship with Your Manager:** If you have a close and trusting relationship with your manager, you may feel more comfortable being open about your period symptoms. If you have a more formal relationship, you may prefer to be more vague.
* **Workplace Culture:** Consider the overall culture of your workplace. Is it generally open and supportive of women’s health issues, or is it more conservative? This will influence your decision on how much information to share.
* **Personal Comfort Level:** Ultimately, the decision of what to say is up to you. Choose the option that feels most comfortable and authentic for you. You are not obligated to disclose any information that you don’t want to share.

Step-by-Step Guide to Calling in Sick

Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to help you confidently call in sick due to your period:

**Step 1: Assess Your Symptoms and Determine if a Sick Day is Necessary:**

* Objectively evaluate the severity of your symptoms. Are they preventing you from effectively performing your job duties?
* Consider if you can manage your symptoms with medication or rest, or if you genuinely need to take a day off to recover.

**Step 2: Check Your Company’s Sick Leave Policy:**

* Review your company’s policy on sick leave, including the number of sick days you are entitled to, the procedures for reporting an absence, and any required documentation.
* This information will help you understand your rights and responsibilities.

**Step 3: Choose Your Preferred Method of Communication:**

* Depending on your company’s policy and your relationship with your manager, you can choose to call, email, or text to report your absence.
* Calling is generally preferred for urgent situations or when you need to discuss your absence in more detail. Email or text may be suitable for less urgent situations.

**Step 4: Contact Your Manager or Supervisor:**

* Contact your manager as soon as possible to inform them of your absence.
* If you are unable to reach your manager directly, leave a message or send an email.

**Step 5: Use Your Chosen Script (See Examples Above):**

* Use one of the examples provided above as a template for your conversation or email.
* Adjust the wording to fit your specific situation and comfort level.

**Step 6: Explain Your Workload Status and Offer Solutions:**

* Briefly explain the status of your current workload and any urgent tasks that need attention.
* Suggest a colleague who might be able to cover your responsibilities or offer to provide instructions or materials remotely.

**Step 7: Provide an Estimated Return Date:**

* If possible, provide an estimated return date. If you are unsure, state that you will keep your manager updated.
* Avoid making promises you can’t keep. It’s better to overestimate your recovery time than to underestimate it.

**Step 8: Thank Your Manager for Their Understanding:**

* Express your gratitude to your manager for their understanding and support.
* This shows professionalism and respect.

**Step 9: Follow Up (If Necessary):**

* If your absence extends beyond the initial estimated return date, follow up with your manager to provide an update.
* If required by your company’s policy, provide a doctor’s note or other documentation.

**Example Email Template:**

Subject: Sick Day – [Your Name]

Dear [Manager’s Name],

I am writing to inform you that I will be unable to come to work today, [Date], due to [Choose one: feeling unwell / a women’s health issue / severe period cramps].

[Choose one: I have already completed [Task] and [Colleague’s Name] is aware of my absence and will be able to assist with any urgent requests / I will check my email periodically for urgent matters / I will be available via phone for critical issues].

I anticipate being back in the office tomorrow, [Date]. I will keep you updated if anything changes.

Thank you for your understanding.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Addressing Potential Concerns and Pushback

While most employers are understanding, you might encounter skepticism or pushback when calling in sick due to your period. Here’s how to address potential concerns:

**1. Being Accused of Faking It:**

* Remain calm and professional. Avoid getting defensive or emotional.
* Reiterate the severity of your symptoms and how they are impacting your ability to work.
* If necessary, offer to provide a doctor’s note (if your company requires it).
* Remember, you are not obligated to prove your illness. Trust your instincts and stand your ground.

**2. Concerns About Workload Coverage:**

* Acknowledge the concerns about workload coverage and offer solutions.
* Suggest a colleague who can cover your responsibilities, provide remote assistance, or prioritize urgent tasks.
* Demonstrate that you have considered the impact of your absence and are taking steps to minimize disruption.

**3. Being Asked Invasive Questions:**

* You have the right to privacy. You are not obligated to answer invasive or personal questions about your health.
* Politely decline to answer by saying something like, “I’m not comfortable discussing the details of my medical condition.” or “I prefer to keep that information private.”

**4. Feeling Guilty or Ashamed:**

* Remind yourself that you are not alone. Many women experience debilitating period symptoms that require time off.
* Taking a sick day is not a sign of weakness or failure. It’s a responsible decision to prioritize your health and well-being.
* Focus on getting the rest and recovery you need so you can return to work feeling refreshed and productive.

Long-Term Strategies for Managing Period Symptoms at Work

While calling in sick is sometimes necessary, there are long-term strategies you can implement to manage your period symptoms and minimize disruptions to your work life:

* **Track Your Cycle:** Use a period tracking app or calendar to monitor your cycle and anticipate potential symptoms. This allows you to plan ahead and schedule important tasks around your expected period dates.
* **Talk to Your Doctor:** Discuss your period symptoms with your doctor. They may recommend treatments such as birth control pills, pain medication, or lifestyle changes to help manage your symptoms.
* **Make Lifestyle Adjustments:** Simple lifestyle changes can sometimes help alleviate period symptoms. These include getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep.
* **Create a Period Comfort Kit:** Keep a period comfort kit at work with essentials like pain relievers, sanitary products, a heating pad, and a change of clothes. This will help you manage symptoms discreetly and comfortably.
* **Advocate for Workplace Changes:** If you feel comfortable, consider advocating for workplace changes that support women’s health. This could include flexible work arrangements, access to sanitary products in restrooms, or designated rest areas for employees experiencing discomfort.

The Importance of Self-Care

When you do call in sick due to your period, prioritize self-care. This is a time to focus on your physical and mental well-being. Here are some self-care tips:

* **Rest and Relaxation:** Get plenty of rest and allow your body to recover.
* **Pain Management:** Take pain relievers as directed by your doctor.
* **Hydration:** Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
* **Comfort Food:** Indulge in comfort food that makes you feel good.
* **Gentle Exercise:** If you feel up to it, engage in gentle exercise like yoga or stretching.
* **Mental Health:** Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing to manage stress and anxiety.
* **Limit Screen Time:** Reduce screen time to avoid eye strain and headaches.
* **Engage in Enjoyable Activities:** Do things that you enjoy, such as reading, listening to music, or watching movies.

Conclusion

Calling in sick due to your period is a valid and legitimate reason for taking time off work. By understanding your rights, preparing what to say, and prioritizing self-care, you can confidently navigate this situation and protect your health and well-being. Remember, your health is paramount, and it’s essential to prioritize it, especially when dealing with debilitating period symptoms. Advocate for yourself, seek support when needed, and don’t let the stigma surrounding menstruation prevent you from taking care of yourself.