Spain set to be the first European country to introduce paid menstrual leave

Spain will likely become the first European country to grant paid menstrual leave. The Spanish government has approved a draft bill proposing a state-funded paid leave for women suffering from severe menstruation.

It is a part of a broader package of proposals that include the extension of abortion rights. The idea is to allow up to three to five menstrual leave for women. However, in severe cases of menstruation, the menstrual leave could be extended to five days.

Though the details regarding the bill are not out yet, the leaked reports suggest that you will have to submit a medical certificate to become eligible for the leave.

The bill needs to be passed by the Spanish parliament before being officially implemented.

If you believe that the stigma surrounding menstruation is gradually diminishing, think again. There are so many women who are forced to hide their menstrual pain or forced to make up excuses for using the bathroom to change their pads. Some women have a condition called Dysmenorrhea, the unbearable pain experienced before or during periods. It is nearly impossible to focus on work when you’re going through so much pain.

Women are still ashamed of openly talking about menstruation. Even if they do, their co-workers tend to judge them. Sure, things have changed slightly for the better as there are various awareness programmes intended to remove the stigma around menstruation. But, women are still forced to work in pain, and if it becomes painful, they resort to popping pills.

Adding insult to injury, heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding is a source of discomfort as you have to keep checking if there are bloodstains on your back or not.

Mood swings during menstruation are more common than you think. It would be tough to keep your emotions under control, especially when dealing with workplace stress.

Some countries already allocate menstrual leave, including Japan, Indonesia, South Korea, Taiwan and Zambia. Spain is likely to join the list once the bill is passed. We hope more countries consider menstrual pain a natural process, not a taboo that a woman should be embarrassed about.