Should women have period leave?

"I think this is ridiculous" - Jane Linley-Thomas. Listen as Jane has a group discussion with some East Coast Radio ladies. Then read more below;

Ok, I must start by saying I have been a freelancer for 15 years, so things like maternity leave, leave 'owed' to me, and paid sick leave are not things I am familiar with. I was back at work after two weeks with both my first and twin pregnancies, so the thought of period leave is interesting.

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Many women consider the first few days of their menstrual cycle uncomfortable and often painful. So there are two people in this debate, those that think that period leave is unnecessary and there are those who do not want to lie and take sick leave but instead want to call it what it is: PERIOD LEAVE. 

In 2016, the introduction of a ‘period policy’ by British company Co-exist sparked widespread controversy, although individual companies in South Africa can have this conversation internally. Making this a South African policy does not seem to be on the cards any time soon, though. 

According to South African labour law, employers are compelled to give employees paid sick leave, and it’s in employees' best interests to take their annual leave in order to improve wellness and avoid illness or "burnout".

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In 2017, international media company Culture Machine's Mumbai office started doing the same. 

My first thought is instead of period leave, grant me leave when I have a lousy day handling life or am having a crazy parenting day where I am multitasking faster than the flow of activity.

Again, I have never been one of those girls who has had debilitating period pains, so it's hard to imagine being at home once a month. Wouldn't this type of thing also be extremely unproductive, not only for the women herself but also the place she works? Once a month is pretty disruptive.

In a world where we want to be taken seriously, I don't think we should be under covers once a month. Toughen up, grab a hot water bottle, and get to work. So period leave is a firm no from me!

I decided to ask you all on both Twitter and Facebook about how you view 'period leave'. I'm all for having our own opinions but I can't help but be a little shocked that many people are for this type of policy. Have a look at what you had to say: 

What are your thoughts on implementing leave during a woman's monthly cycle? Answer the poll below or leave your thoughts in the comments section below.