Every month, like clockwork, women and girls across the globe experience their menstrual cycle. For many of us, this is a time of discomfort, pain, and often embarrassment. The cramping can be so severe that it becomes impossible to focus on our daily tasks or even get out of bed. Some bleed so heavily that they risk staining their clothes in public places such as work or school.

This is not just an inconvenience; it's a significant barrier to our full participation in society. It's heartbreaking to see young girls falling behind in school because they've missed too many days due to their periods. It's equally distressing when working women have no choice but to suffer through the pain at work or lose pay.

It's time we addressed this issue head-on by implementing two paid menstrual leave days per month for all women and three excused absences per month for schoolgirls experiencing their period.

According to a study conducted by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), over half of menstruating women experience some form of dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) which can significantly interfere with daily activities including attendance at work or school (ACOG 2015). This statistic alone underscores the urgent need for policy change.

By signing this petition, you are advocating for policies that respect the biological realities faced by half the population every month. Let us ensure that no woman has to choose between her health and her livelihood, no girl has her education compromised because she is simply experiencing a natural bodily function. Sign today!