Last Thursday, Spain’s parliament approved a law granting paid menstrual leave for women suffering severe period pain. This marks them as the first European country to do so.
The law was passed with 185 votes in favor and 154 against it. Spain’s left-wing government said that this legislation is a step towards breaking the taboo on the subject.
Equality Minister Irene Montero took to Twitter to express her happiness over the huge step of menstrual health being recognized. “It is a historic day for feminist progress,” she said.
The legislation allows employees to take as much time off as they need; these sick leaves are subject to doctor’s approval. The state social security system takes responsibility over the sick leave payment.
The law was initially approved by the Cabinet back in May 2022. Montero said then, “Periods will no longer be taboo. 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.”