G.A. Viray
Pain? You don’t need to ask a woman about it, just make sure to be around her at that time of the month, and you’ll definitely understand what pain is!
According to Women’s Health Concern, approximately 8 out of 10 women have suffered menstrual pain in their lifetime. That’s almost every woman!
Web MD describes the symptoms of menstrual pain or menstrual cramps as pain and pressure in the abdomen, hips, backs and lower thighs. When menstrual cramps are severe, it may cause vomiting and loose stools as well. Some women can’t even leave their beds to do their usual activities.
However, is it really necessary to give women paid leaves during their menstrual period? Gedis Grudzinskas, renowned professor of obstetrics and gynecology, says women should be entitled to this privilege, in addition to paid sick leaves, since menstrual pain cannot be considered a sickness. He cites that this benefit would help women become more productive and motivated.
“Menstrual leave will make people feel more happy and comfortable in the workplace, which is a positive thing”, Grudzinskas further stated.
Menstrual Leave is now mandatory in a few countries
Currently, four countries all over the world grant paid menstrual leaves to women in the workforce. Indonesia grants two days paid menstrual leave per month. Japan and Korea doesn’t have any limits on the days of menstrual leave, however, Korea doesn’t only grant paid leaves but gives credit to women who don’t take their menstrual leave. Taiwan, on the other hand, grants three days paid leave per month. Canada is currently discussing the necessity of this concept. Russia’s draft law on menstrual leave, however, was thrown out last year.
So is it really necessary for women to be entitled with paid menstrual leaves? An obstetrics-gynecology expert has given his stand on it. What women need now is support from their government and their companies.
People work in organizations to improve themselves, not the organization babying women employees. That’s why we have Vacation, Sick, Maternity Leave.
I do understand that it is very uncomfortable for women to work when they have menstrual cycles especially when they have dysmenorrhea, and that is why employers give sick leaves to employees who are incapacitated to work due to certain conditions. If this will be pushed through, I think no organization would want to employ women anymore.