In 2017, Culture Machine, a Mumbai media firm, made headlines by introducing a progressive policy that allowed female employees to take the first day of their period as a paid day off if they experienced pain or discomfort. This move aimed to combat the stigma surrounding menstruation and garnered mixed reactions. Some questioned whether it would affect employees’ perceived commitment and suggested using sick days instead.
Culture Machine was later acquired by another agency in 2019, and there is no information available regarding the continuation of the period day off policy. However, GoZoop, another pioneering company in this regard, continued the policy and became part of a growing global trend.
Spain became the first European country to institute a period leave policy, granting up to 5 days off with a doctor’s note as corroboration. Several other countries, including China, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Zambia, and Mexico, have similar policies in place. In India, many private companies, including Zomato, Swiggy, and Byju’s, adopted similar period leave policies since 2017. Government bodies in India have also endorsed the idea, with the state of Kerala granting menstrual leaves in state-run universities and a Parliamentary Committee urging lawmakers to consider enacting a law guaranteeing period leave.
Supporters argue that period leave is a matter of wellness, trust in employees, and gender equity. It acknowledges that workplaces should cater to the needs of all employees, regardless of gender. Critics, on the other hand, argue that it may inadvertently reinforce gender stereotypes.
Despite differing opinions, the idea of a period day off has found strong support among those who believe it offers comfort and space for women during menstruation without compromising their professional responsibilities.
In conclusion, since 2017, the concept of a paid day off for painful periods has continued to gain traction, with several countries and private companies implementing such policies to support women’s well-being and gender equality in the workplace.
