Menstrual leave allows employees to take time off from work when they experience painful menstruation. Some individuals may experience nausea, migraines, dizziness and intense cramps, which can make it hard to work. 

Only seven out of 195 countries in the world have policies allowing individuals to take menstrual leave for painful periods: Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Taiwan, Zambia, Italy and Spain.

According to Free Periods Canada, a non-profit organization, the benefits of menstrual leave can reduce stress levels, improve well-being and productivity, and eliminate stigma regarding menstruation.  

Even after taking pain-relieving medication, symptoms can continue to make everyday activities such as work difficult, which makes access to menstrual leave important for individuals. 

Sick leave can be used for painful menstruation; however, some employers may require a doctor’s note, and the amount of sick leave an employee gets may be limited. 

Menstrual leave helps acknowledge that when an individual is menstruating, it can be physically strenuous to work, and that time off from work can be necessary. Women’s History Month is a great time for more employers and countries to consider making policies that offer this benefit.