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Opinion National Interest PoV 50-Word Edit

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More Judiciary Education YourTurn Work With Us Campus Voice

Period pain is real. Blanket menstrual leave policy isn’t a fix

The Supreme Court is right to point out the 'mindset of employers', who, because of this policy, may deduce that 'women are inferior.'

This is an unpopular opinion, especially among women who have spent years fighting for recognition of menstrual pain in workplaces. But as someone who has struggled with PCOS and debilitating periods for decades, I find myself agreeing with the Supreme Court of India’s observation that a blanket, mandatory menstrual leave policy could harm women in the workplace more than it helps.

That might sound contradictory. Menstrual pain can make it impossible to sit through meetings, concentrate on a screen, or simply get through the day without medicines and hot water bags. Cramps, fatigue and hormonal swings are overwhelming. Anyone who has experienced severe PCOS or PCOD knows that these are not “minor inconveniences”; they can be physically draining and emotionally destabilising. And a day off is most times much needed.

Yet, recognising that reality does not automatically mean that a nationwide rule mandating menstrual leave is the best solution.

Trickle-down politics

The Supreme Court’s concern is that compulsory menstrual leave could discourage employers from hiring women. It may sound cynical at first. In an ideal workplace, this should never be a factor. Companies........

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