Table 2 Perception of menstrual 'problem'

Miriam:

And what is it that made you start to feel there was a problem, do you think?

Joanne:

Em, maybe having to take time off my work more than once or twice, or being more short-tempered with the kids as well.

Miriam:

So do you think of them [periods] as a problem or an issue at all?

Sophie:

It doesn't really bother me that much now, because as it is, you know I've got my two little girls and I don't have an awful lot of time for things like sport and that sort of thing.

Miriam:

Out of those things, the moodiness, the bloating, the heaviness and the pain that you get [all previously referred to by Anita], which of those do you actually find a bit of a problem?

Anita:

I would say the heaviness particularly when I am working is a problem. And also not so much the pain, the bloatedness in my stomach, I can manage that but the pains in my legs are very difficult when I'm working because I am on my feet for twelve and a half hour shifts and that is a long time when your legs are aching.