Navigating menstrual stigma: Is menstrual leave really required for the new age workforce

As the healthcare ecosystem and awareness for women health expands, new policies for women are taking shape across workspaces.

- PRACHI KAUSHIK

One of the most debatable policies is the period leave, which has garnered mixed opinions.

While some agree to offer period leaves, some disregard it from the productivity lens.

Largely, the sole purpose of menstrual leave is to allow a person to take time from work when period symptoms make it impossible to complete job tasks.

Pelvic pain can be severe for some people and have an impact on their productivity at work.

As per multiple research analyses, significant discomfort prohibits 5-20% of menstruators from performing work-related activities, reducing their productivity significantly.

Taking a day or two off work during one's menstrual period may help them recuperate physically and emotionally during a period of reduced productivity at work.

Menstrual leave can provide time for recovery, but it also has the potential to reinforce sexist views and contribute to menstrual stigma.

NAVIGATING MENSTRUAL STIGMA & WORKPLACE DISCRIMINATION:

Discussions regarding menstruation in the workplace contradict cultural norms that encourage nondisclosure.