There are still a persistent stigma and silence surrounding women’s health and well-being in the accountancy profession, according to new research from ICAS.
The institute’s 3M report highlights how experiences of menstruation, menopause and miscarriage continue to shape women’s career progression.
While overall trust in the profession remains high, around three in four female professionals report experiencing discriminatory or exclusionary behaviour in the workplace.
Women in accountancy said they feel isolated and fearful of being open about the ‘3Ms’. A lack of privacy, inadequate personal breaks and unsuitable office layouts all increased stress and discomfort.
And male-dominated leadership teams reinforce silence and slow progress. The report believes more empathetic, people-focused leadership is now essential.
The findings say that cultural, environmental and policy gaps are limiting the progress towards true inclusion.
Interestingly, the role of the professional bodies is rarely seen as a source of support, yet ICAS says these bodies are uniquely positioned to lead sector-wide reform – especially for self- employed professionals and those in SMEs. 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 well-being 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.”
Sarah Chisnall, Director of Public Affairs at ICAS, explained: “Our groundbreaking research reveals the everyday challenges many women face in coping with menstruation, menopause and miscarriage in their workplaces. The impact of the 3Ms extends across every industry and sector, not just accountancy, yet many women still feel unable to speak openly or raise their needs, meaning support often remains inadequate.
“With almost three in four professionals reporting discriminatory or exclusionary behaviour in the workplace, the scale of the issue is clear and demands meaningful action that goes beyond rhetoric. We hope this report helps organisations better understand how they can create more inclusive environments that genuinely support women throughout their working lives.”
To find out more about the 3M report and ICAS’ Shaping the Profession’ (StP) programme click here.
