CYCLE SYNCED WORK DESIGN: REDUCING PRESENTEEISM AND ENHANCING PRODUCTIVITY FOR WOMEN

Abstract

Recent research indicates that many modern workplaces continue to operate under linear productivity models that overlook the influence of women's infradian biological rhythms, despite established links between hormonal fluctuations and variations in energy, motivation, and work engagement. Recognising this can empower workplace managers and HR professionals to make impactful changes that improve productivity and wellbeing. This misalignment fosters presenteeism and reduces output, leading to economic losses unrelated to intellectual capacity. Using a qualitative approach, this study conducted a thematic review of available literature on biological cycles, workplace structure, and job design aligned with menstrual phases to identify recurring patterns related to presenteeism, productivity loss, and organisational interventions. The findings emphasise that recognising women's cyclical nature is critical to effective scheduling. Cycle-awareness education emerged as the most frequently recommended intervention, alongside policies such as paid menstrual leave, flexible hours, and task adjustments based on biological phases. Aligning job demands with fluctuating energy levels can reduce presenteeism and improve outcomes. In conclusion, cycle-aligned work design challenges the limitations of linear frameworks, reduces gender-specific burnout, and provides practical steps toward inclusive, biologically informed, and sustainable work environments.