By: Fariba Nazanin
Have you ever thought about just skipping work, school or life in general due to the severe pain and discomfort inflicted by your period?
Well I’m sure you have but did you also know that it’s legal to take a leave when on your period (for work only so far). This form of work leave is often a paid leave and is not attached to sick leaves or vacations. Formally known as a “menstrual leave” the concept was birthed in the then Soviet Union in the 20s and 30s, to give leave to their female workers. It is now part of the law in Japan. Some companies and startups in India have bought into the idea as well.
Intense cramps, headaches, bloating and other side effects of a period can hamper a worker’s productivity and may even mask deeper health concerns such as endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). It is only fair to be granted a leave or at least be entitled to work from home. However the truth is, most women are unaware that such policies exist to allow them to rest at home, free of worries regarding salaries. Additionally, most women are fearful that undertaking such a life might negatively impact their credibility and status at work. Moreover employers have claimed such leaves to be unnecessarily expensive and there are concerns that such schemes might contribute to further gender inequality in the workplace. Broader acceptance of period leaves would require a massive culture shift-which so far has been the greatest barrier to accepting the period leave in countries where they are, ironically acceptable.
However, in a world where trade unions have more power; workers rights should be of utmost importance to their employers. Thus, period leaves should be acceptable, appropriate and available. This is a large step in normalizing menstruation and being a more inclusive workplace. Countries like Indonesia, South Korea, Vietnam and Zambia already have menstrual leaves embedded in their laws. Although the leaves are not as generous as they should ideally be, most of them grant a day or two of paid leave without proof of medical certificates or any papers, for women. In Spain on the other hand, women are provided 3 days paid menstrual leave at the behest of the government.
So the next time you feel that you are crumbling in pain due to your period, know that it is not your fault and you very much have the right to a leave (preferably paid) and although that is yet to be the reality in the world, it has started appearing in crevices of the globe and is legal enough to be accepted by other countries as well.