Women With Period Pain Will Be Given As Much Paid ‘Menstrual Leave’ In Spain

Women With Period Pain Will Be Given As Much Paid ‘Menstrual Leave’ In Spain

Spanish women are the first in Europe to be able to take time off work for severe period pain after legislation was passed to allow the additional sick leave.

The law, which passed by 185 votes in favour to 154 against, is aimed at breaking a taboo on the subject, the government said.

Menstrual leave is currently offered only in a small number of countries around the world, including Japan, Indonesia and Zambia.

‘It is a historic day for feminist progress,’ Equality Minister Irene Montero tweeted ahead of votes on a number of feminist-inspired pieces of legislation.

The law entitles workers experiencing period pain to as much time off as they need, with the state social security system – not employers – picking up the tab for the sick leave.

As with paid leave for other health reasons, a doctor must approve the temporary medical incapacity.

The length of sick leave that doctors will be able to grant to women suffering from painful periods has not been specified in the new law.

About a third of women who menstruate suffer from severe pain, according to the Spanish Gynaecology and Obstetrics Society.

The measure has created divisions among both politicians and unions, with the UGT, one of Spain’s largest trade unions, warning it could stigmatise women in the workplace and favour the recruitment of men.

The main opposition, conservative Popular Party (PP), also warned the law risks ‘stigmatising’ women and could have ‘negative consequences in the labour market’ for them.

‘Menstrual leave’ is one of the key measures in the broader legislation, which also provides for increased access to abortion in public hospitals.

Which countries offer period leave?
Indonesia:

Two days per cycle

Japan:

As long as the person needs, but unpaid

South Korea:

One day a month, but unpaid

Taiwan:

Three days a year, but no more than one day in a single month

Zambia:

One day a month, known as ‘Mother’s Day’

Some companies in other countries, including France and Australia, offer menstrual days as perks for employees.

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