Spain endorses paid menstrual leave in new law

The sexual and reproductive health law in Spain, which grants women the right to take time out of work for their periods, went into force on Thursday.

The left-wing government's draft creating the Gender Equality Ministry was accepted by parliament in February.

Since then, modifications have been enacted into the new statute.

Due to the removal of obstacles, it is now simpler to obtain an abortion and change a trans person's gender.

Irene Montero, the minister of equality, referred to the legislative decision in February as a "historic day for the advancement of feminist rights."

Menstrual leave is not often governed by law. German law does not contain a corresponding clause.

Only three days a year are allowed for women to stay at home in Taiwan, and even then, they only receive 50% of their normal pay.

The law in South Korea does not specify who is responsible for paying the employee's salary, however, businesses are required to grant their female employees one day off every month if they desire it.

Female employees in Spain need a doctor's note in order to take menstruation leave. The leave from work may, in theory, last for as long as you choose.

The severity and duration of the menstrual discomfort are relevant factors, according to the law.

According to the law, employees who are having period pain are entitled to take as much time off as they require, with the state social security system—not employers—covering the cost of the sick time.

Although the period of sick leave is not set in the law, it requires a doctor's clearance, just like paid leave for other medical reasons.

According to the Spanish Gynaecology and Obstetrics Society, a third of women experience extremely painful periods.

“Periods will no longer be taboo,” Montero said after the law was initially approved by the cabinet in May 2022.

“No more going to work with pain, no more taking pills before arriving at work and having to hide the fact we’re in pain that makes us unable to work.”

Source