Is Paid Menstrual Leave Actually a Good Idea?

Paid leave for women who suffer from painful periods is being touted as a policy which will improve gender equality in the workplace.

The Italian government is currently debating a bill to provide 3 days of paid menstrual leave per month for women with dysmenorrhea, a condition which causes painful periods. If passed, the country will become the first Western nation to implement this policy.

However, many are concerned that the law may actually be a step backwards, decreasing female participation in the workforce and discouraging employers from hiring women.

Dr Lauren Rosewarne from the University of Melbourne explained why period leave may be counterproductive, reducing equality and productivity while failing to destigmatise menstruation.