Spain\u2019s parliament approved Thursday a law granting paid medical leave to women suffering severe period pain, becoming the first European country to advance such legislation.<\/p>\n
The law, which passed by 185 votes in favour to 154 against, is aimed at breaking a taboo on the subject, Spain’s left-wing government has said.<\/p>\n
Menstrual leave is currently offered only in a small number of countries across the globe, such as Japan, Indonesia and Zambia.<\/p>\n
“It is a historic day for feminist progress,” tweeted Equality Minister Irene Montero, who says the move is a step toward addressing a health problem that has been largely swept under the carpet.<\/p>\n
The legislation entitles employees 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.<\/p>\n
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As with paid leave for other health reasons, it requires a doctor’s approval, though the length of sick leave is not specified in the law.<\/p>\n
About a third of women suffer from severe menstrual pain, according to the Spanish Gynaecology and Obstetrics Society.<\/p>\n
\u201cPeriods will no longer be taboo,\u201d Montero said after the law was initially approved by the cabinet in May 2022.<\/p>\n