Menstrual Leave and Its Impact on The Productivity of Female Employees

Abstract

Menstruation is a natural biological process that affects the majority of the female population. Despite its universal nature, the taboo around the subject persists in many societies. Menstruation is still considered a taboo in both rural and urban areas of society, and it has significant implications for female workforce participation. Health issues related to menstruation contribute to a decline in women's workforce engagement, leading to prejudice and punishment for women experiencing biologically-based problems. Women often experience discomfort and pain during menstruation, which can affect their productivity at work. Menstrual leave offers female employees the opportunity to take time off from work during their menstrual cycles, acknowledging and addressing the challenges they face. Policies governing menstrual leave are rules that allow employees or students to take time off during their periods, typically because of pain or discomfort. By allowing them to take the required time off to manage their health and well-being, these rules seek to acknowledge the difficulties that menstruation can provide for women. Women may take paid or unpaid time off from work or school throughout their menstrual cycle under menstrual leave rules. Depending on the regulation, menstruation leave can last anywhere between one and several days per month.