ICAS study reveals culture of silence around women’s experiences of menstruation, menopause, and miscarriage
New independent research commissioned by ICAS (Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland) exposes the persistent stigma and silence surrounding Women’s Health and Wellbeing (WHW) in the accounting profession. Its 3M report, published today, highlights how experiences of menstruation, menopause, and miscarriage continue to shape women’s career progression and wellbeing.
The study reveals that while overall trust in the profession remains high, nearly three in four professionals report experiencing discriminatory or exclusionary behaviour in the workplace. The findings highlight that cultural, environmental, and policy gaps still limit progress toward true inclusion.
Through interviews, research analysis, and a review of workplace policies, ICAS highlights the urgent need for evidence-based reforms and stronger support for women’s health and wellbeing at work. The report’s authors and research team included academics from Edinburgh, Heriot Watt, and Newcastle Universities.
Key Findings
- Culture of stigma and silence: Many women feel isolated and fearful of being open about the 3M, often making career decisions based on these experiences.
- Leadership and role models matter: Male-dominated leadership teams reinforce silence and slow progress. More empathetic, people-focused leadership is essential.
- Workplace design and environment: Lack of privacy, inadequate breaks, and unsuitable office layouts increase stress and discomfort.
- Flexible work patterns: Rigid working structures can make managing the 3M harder, adding to anxiety.
- Policy gaps: Few organisations have meaningful 3M-related policies; and existing ones are often tokenistic.
- Role of professional bodies: Rarely seen as a source of support yet uniquely positioned to lead sector-wide change – especially for self-employed professionals and those in SMEs.
Call for Change
ICAS’ 3M report calls for immediate and practical action across the profession, including:
- Supportive leadership that normalises open conversations, mentorship, awareness-raising, and the encouragement of male allies.
- Flexible working arrangements and improved physical workspaces to support wellbeing and comfort.
- Inclusive policies that go beyond gestures to show real organisational commitment.
- Proactive leadership from professional bodies to champion wellbeing, integrate 3M awareness into mentoring, CPD, and equality initiatives, and set new standards for inclusion across the sector.
James Baird CA, Chair of ICAS’ Shaping the Profession programme said: “This research is about shaping solutions, not just finding problems. It was designed to shine a light on issues that have been ignored for far too long. Menstruation, menopause, and miscarriage affect every workplace, yet they’re rarely discussed openly. By breaking that silence, we can create a profession where women feel supported and valued – not sidelined because of natural life experiences.”
Women across the Chartered Accountancy profession are shaping the future of business, finance, and leadership. Yet, we recognise that progress doesn’t happen in isolation — it happens through community, mentorship, and shared opportunity.
That’s why we champion networks that connect, support, and inspire women at every stage of their professional journey. Whether you’re newly qualified, returning to work, or leading from the boardroom, these initiatives are designed to help you thrive.
