Calling in sick is never fun, but sometimes it’s absolutely necessary. When period symptoms are severe, making it impossible to function at work, staying home becomes the only viable option. However, navigating the conversation with your boss or HR can be tricky, especially given the lingering stigma surrounding menstruation. This comprehensive guide provides you with everything you need to know about calling in sick due to period-related issues, including what to say, how to say it, and how to protect your privacy.
Understanding Period-Related Symptoms That Justify a Sick Day
Before we dive into the specifics of what to say, let’s acknowledge the wide range of period symptoms that can significantly impact your ability to work. These aren’t just minor inconveniences; they can be debilitating and require rest and self-care.
- Dysmenorrhea (Severe Menstrual Cramps): These cramps can range from mild discomfort to excruciating pain that makes it difficult to move, concentrate, or even stand. They’re often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- Menorrhagia (Heavy Menstrual Bleeding): Excessive bleeding can lead to anemia, fatigue, and a constant need to change sanitary products, making it challenging to perform work duties.
- Endometriosis: This condition causes uterine tissue to grow outside the uterus, leading to chronic pain, heavy bleeding, and severe cramping.
- Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): PMS symptoms can include mood swings, irritability, anxiety, depression, fatigue, bloating, headaches, and breast tenderness. While some symptoms are manageable, others can be debilitating.
- Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): PMDD is a severe form of PMS that causes significant mood disturbances, including depression, anxiety, and panic attacks. It can significantly impair daily functioning.
- Migraines: Hormonal fluctuations during menstruation can trigger migraines, which can cause severe headaches, nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
- Fatigue: The hormonal shifts and blood loss associated with menstruation can lead to extreme fatigue, making it difficult to concentrate and perform physical tasks.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Severe nausea and vomiting can be caused by hormonal changes and can make it impossible to work effectively.
It’s important to remember that your experience is valid, and if your period symptoms are preventing you from doing your job, you have the right to take a sick day.
Preparing to Call In Sick
Before you pick up the phone or draft an email, take a few minutes to prepare. This will help you communicate your needs clearly and confidently.
- Review Your Company’s Sick Leave Policy: Familiarize yourself with your company’s policies regarding sick leave, including how many days you’re entitled to, how to report your absence, and whether you need a doctor’s note. This information can usually be found in your employee handbook or on your company’s HR portal.
- Decide How Much Information You Want to Share: You are not obligated to disclose the specific reason for your illness if you’re not comfortable doing so. You can simply say that you’re feeling unwell and need to take a sick day. However, some people feel more comfortable providing a brief explanation. Think about what you’re comfortable sharing and prepare a few phrases you can use.
- Consider the Best Method of Communication: Depending on your company culture and your relationship with your manager, you may choose to call, send an email, or use a messaging app to report your absence. Consider which method is most appropriate and respectful in your situation.
- Plan Ahead (If Possible): If you consistently experience severe period symptoms, try to anticipate when they might occur and plan accordingly. This might involve scheduling important meetings for days when you’re less likely to be affected or informing your manager in advance that you may need to take a sick day during a particular week.
What to Say When Calling In Sick (Examples & Templates)
Here are several examples and templates you can adapt to fit your specific situation and comfort level:
Option 1: Keeping it Vague (The Safest Route)
This option is ideal if you prefer to keep your personal health information private. It’s simple, direct, and respectful.
- By Phone: “Hi [Manager’s Name], this is [Your Name]. I’m not feeling well this morning and won’t be able to come into work today. I’ll check my email periodically for urgent matters. I expect to be back in the office tomorrow. Thank you.”
- By Email: Subject: Absence from Work – [Your Name]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
Please accept this email as notification that I will be unable to come to work today, [Date], due to illness. I will be checking emails periodically. I anticipate being back in the office tomorrow.
Thank you for your understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Option 2: Providing a Little More Detail (If You Feel Comfortable)
This option provides a slightly more specific reason for your absence without divulging too much personal information.
- By Phone: “Hi [Manager’s Name], this is [Your Name]. I’m experiencing some severe stomach cramps/abdominal pain this morning and won’t be able to come into work today. I’ll check my email periodically for urgent matters. I expect to be back in the office tomorrow. Thank you.”
- By Email: Subject: Absence from Work – [Your Name]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
Please accept this email as notification that I will be unable to come to work today, [Date], due to severe abdominal pain. I will be checking emails periodically. I anticipate being back in the office tomorrow.
Thank you for your understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Option 3: Using the Term “Women’s Health Issue” (A Balanced Approach)
This option provides a bit more context without going into explicit details about your period.
- By Phone: “Hi [Manager’s Name], this is [Your Name]. I’m experiencing a women’s health issue and won’t be able to come into work today. I’ll check my email periodically for urgent matters. I expect to be back in the office tomorrow. Thank you.”
- By Email: Subject: Absence from Work – [Your Name]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
Please accept this email as notification that I will be unable to come to work today, [Date], due to a women’s health issue. I will be checking emails periodically. I anticipate being back in the office tomorrow.
Thank you for your understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Option 4: Being More Direct (If You Have a Supportive Manager)
If you have a good relationship with your manager and feel comfortable being more open, you can use a more direct approach. However, use your judgment and consider your company culture before choosing this option.
- By Phone: “Hi [Manager’s Name], this is [Your Name]. I’m having a really rough period day and won’t be able to come into work today. I’ll check my email periodically for urgent matters. I expect to be back in the office tomorrow. Thank you.”
- By Email: Subject: Absence from Work – [Your Name]
Dear [Manager’s Name],
Please accept this email as notification that I will be unable to come to work today, [Date], due to severe period symptoms. I will be checking emails periodically. I anticipate being back in the office tomorrow.
Thank you for your understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Option 5: For Chronic Conditions (Endometriosis, PMDD, etc.)
If you have a diagnosed condition like endometriosis or PMDD, you may want to inform your manager at some point so they understand your potential need for occasional sick days. This conversation should happen separately from a call-in-sick scenario, ideally during a private meeting.
During the Initial Conversation (Separate Meeting): “[Manager’s Name], I wanted to have a conversation with you about a health condition I have called [Endometriosis/PMDD]. It’s a chronic condition that can sometimes cause severe pain and other symptoms, which may occasionally require me to take a sick day. I wanted to be transparent with you so you understand why I might need to be absent from time to time. I’m committed to my work and will do my best to manage my condition, but I appreciate your understanding and support.”
When Calling in Sick: “Hi [Manager’s Name], this is [Your Name]. I’m having a flare-up of my [Endometriosis/PMDD] today and won’t be able to come into work. I’ll check my email periodically for urgent matters. I expect to be back in the office tomorrow. Thank you.”
Key Phrases to Use and Avoid
Here are some helpful phrases to incorporate into your conversation or email, as well as phrases to avoid:
Phrases to Use:
- “I’m not feeling well.”
- “I’m experiencing [abdominal pain/severe cramps/a women’s health issue].”
- “I’m unable to come to work today due to illness.”
- “I’ll be checking my email periodically for urgent matters.”
- “I anticipate being back in the office tomorrow [or specify the date].”
- “Thank you for your understanding.”
- “I’m managing a chronic condition that occasionally requires me to take a sick day.” (If applicable)
Phrases to Avoid:
- “I’m just having my period.” (Too casual and potentially dismissive)
- “I’m faking sick.” (Never admit to dishonesty)
- Overly detailed descriptions of your symptoms (Keep it professional)
- Complaining excessively (Focus on informing, not venting)
Tips for Communicating Effectively
- Be Prompt: Notify your manager as soon as you know you won’t be able to come to work. This allows them to make necessary arrangements.
- Be Clear and Concise: Get straight to the point and avoid rambling or providing unnecessary details.
- Be Professional: Maintain a professional tone, even if you’re feeling uncomfortable or embarrassed.
- Be Confident: Stand your ground and don’t apologize for taking care of your health. You are entitled to sick days.
- Offer to Help (If Possible): If you’re able to, offer to check your email periodically for urgent matters or to provide guidance to colleagues who may need assistance. However, don’t feel obligated to work while you’re sick.
- Follow Up: If you’re going to be out for more than one day, keep your manager informed of your progress and expected return date.
Addressing Potential Concerns and Pushback
While most managers will be understanding, you may encounter some resistance or skepticism. Here’s how to handle potential concerns:
- If your manager questions the severity of your symptoms: Gently reiterate that you are not feeling well enough to perform your job duties effectively. You can say something like, “I understand your concern, but my symptoms are preventing me from being productive at work today. I need to take the time to rest and recover.”
- If your manager asks for a doctor’s note: Refer to your company’s sick leave policy. If a doctor’s note is required, schedule an appointment with your doctor or use a telehealth service to obtain one.
- If your manager implies that you’re being dramatic: This is unacceptable and potentially discriminatory. If you feel comfortable, you can calmly explain that you are experiencing a legitimate health issue and that you are entitled to take sick days. If the behavior persists, consider speaking to HR.
- If you feel uncomfortable discussing your period with your manager: Stick to the vague options outlined above. You are not obligated to disclose personal health information if you don’t feel comfortable doing so.
Protecting Your Privacy
It’s crucial to protect your privacy when calling in sick due to period-related issues. Here are some tips:
- Only Share What You’re Comfortable Sharing: You have the right to keep your personal health information private. Don’t feel pressured to disclose more than you’re comfortable with.
- Be Mindful of Email and Messaging Apps: Be aware that emails and messages can be forwarded or shared. Keep your communication professional and avoid sharing sensitive details.
- Avoid Oversharing on Social Media: Be careful about what you post on social media, as it could be used against you. Avoid posting anything that contradicts your claim of being sick.
- Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights as an employee regarding sick leave and privacy.
Creating a More Supportive Workplace Culture
While individual communication is important, creating a more supportive workplace culture is crucial for breaking down the stigma surrounding menstruation and other women’s health issues. Here are some ways to promote a more inclusive environment:
- Advocate for Period-Friendly Policies: Encourage your company to implement policies that support employees who experience period-related symptoms, such as flexible work arrangements, access to menstrual products in restrooms, and paid sick leave.
- Educate Your Colleagues: Share information about period-related conditions and challenge misconceptions.
- Support Open Dialogue: Create a safe space for women to discuss their health concerns without fear of judgment or ridicule.
- Lead by Example: Be open and honest about your own experiences (if you feel comfortable) to help normalize conversations about menstruation.
- Challenge Gender Bias: Advocate for equal treatment and opportunities for all employees, regardless of their gender.
The Importance of Self-Care
Finally, remember to prioritize self-care when you’re experiencing period-related symptoms. This includes:
- Resting: Get plenty of sleep to allow your body to recover.
- Staying Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
- Eating Nutritious Foods: Choose foods that are rich in iron and other essential nutrients.
- Using Pain Relief: Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to manage pain.
- Applying Heat: Use a heating pad or hot water bottle to relieve cramps.
- Engaging in Relaxing Activities: Take a warm bath, read a book, or listen to music to reduce stress.
- Seeking Medical Advice: If your symptoms are severe or persistent, consult with your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
Conclusion
Calling in sick because of your period is a valid and necessary action when your symptoms are preventing you from performing your job duties effectively. By preparing in advance, communicating clearly and confidently, and protecting your privacy, you can navigate this situation with grace and professionalism. Remember, your health and well-being are paramount, and you have the right to take the time you need to recover. Furthermore, by advocating for period-friendly policies and promoting open dialogue, you can help create a more supportive and inclusive workplace culture for all.
This guide provides the framework. Adapt it to your unique needs, comfort levels, and company culture. Your well-being is paramount. Don’t hesitate to prioritize it.