Time To Talk Of Menstrual Leave

It has not been long since we heard of news regarding the Spanish cabinet’s approval of medical leave for women during menstruation. Spanish woman now enjoy menstrual leave if a doctor endorses that she is in her period. 

The news was widely reported by international media but rarely reported here. It can be controversial to discuss about the concept of menstrual leave in a country like ours where menstruation is still considered as a taboo. However, it is high time that we debated it in the public. 

Menstruation, in biological terms, is the regular discharge of blood and mucosal tissue from the inner lining of the uterus through vagina. It is a natural phenomenon. But, sadly this has become an embarrassing subject or a matter of “impurity.” Menstruation is a very biological cycle, however, menstrual pain and complications that come with it can be a real headache and hassle for women. This is often overlooked or normalised. Women are expected to endure any type of menstrual pain and go on about their daily activities even in such excruciating moments.

A woman could be in completely agonising period pain while her surrounding either remains unaware or ignorant. The menstruation-related health problems range from irregular periods to heavy bleeding. Most of the women experience severe stomach cramps, nausea, back and body ache which can easily hinder their ability to function. Some also go through abnormally heavy bleeding that causes them to be anemic. Other far-reaching issues such as endometriosis, growing an ovarian cyst and other issues that arise with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) or Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) have also become common nowadays. 

These conditions affect a woman’s body completely and the complications that come with it can be really harsh. Surgeons say sometimes it may require surgical intervention as well. Not to mention the expenses of healthcare that comes with seeking medical help for such issues. Moreover, menstruation also affects women mentally. Many women go through premenstrual syndrome that appears right before their periods where they get severe mood swings, anxiety and sometimes even depression due to acute hormonal changes. It is no doubt that social and emotional hindrances also occur in the process. 

The chance to provide women a leave, at the least, while menstruation takes such a toll on them should be highly considered. This sort of change not only puts them at ease but also takes us further in building healthy societal norms and a safe space for women. 

It takes us one step closer in empowering women as it allows us to break barriers against women and girls at home, workplaces and in general. The concern of menstrual leave is also related to our right to health as menstruation is very much a huge part of women’s health. It affects them as much as any other health concern would. 

Likewise, along with talks of menstrual hygiene and sanitation, it would also be a great initiative if we discuss menstrual leave for women in our country or at least the choice of it, especially for the ones who struggle with severe complications. A small initiative like this could be a big succor in someone’s monthly plight.