Every month, millions of women across the United States are expected to show up to work, care for others, and maintain peak productivity levels, all while contending with the serious side effects of menstruation. Period pain is a very real, often underestimated, and inadequately addressed health issue that affects a significant percentage of the workforce.

For many women, menstruation brings about severe cramps, nausea, dizziness, migraines, exhaustion, heavy bleeding, and significant hormonal changes. These symptoms are not just inconvenient; they can be truly debilitating, impacting the ability to concentrate, complete tasks efficiently, and in some cases, even get out of bed. Yet, the societal expectation is for us to put on a brave face, take over-the-counter pain medication, and pretend everything is perfectly fine.

It's time for the United States to recognize menstrual pain as a legitimate health concern that warrants appropriate workplace policies. While some countries and organizations have already implemented menstrual leave policies to accommodate their employees' health needs, the U.S. remains lacking in this regard. Establishing a policy for three days of paid menstrual leave per month would reflect an understanding and supportive approach to women's health and well-being. It would enable women to take necessary rest, leading to improved overall health and more effective performance when they return to work.

Implementing such a policy is both a compassionate and practical move. Employers who support their workforce through realistic and inclusive workplace policies are likely to see a boost in employee morale, reduced absenteeism, and greater loyalty among their staff.

Statistics show that around 80% of women experience period pain at some point in their lives, with 5-10% of them suffering symptoms so severe that they interfere with their daily activities, according to beyondblue, an Australian mental health organization. In Spain, a groundbreaking law providing menstrual leave was enacted recently, recognizing the physical challenges of menstruation and creating a supportive work environment.

We call on the United States Department of Labor to consider this essential issue and take steps to draft and implement legislation mandating paid menstrual leave. Such a policy would set a precedent and could inspire other nations to follow suit while highlighting the U.S. as a leader in supporting women’s health rights and workplace equality.

Sign this petition to show your support for menstrual leave and help create a more empathetic and inclusive working environment across the nation.