Every month, thousands of people across Massachusetts go to work while dealing with severe menstrual pain—cramps, migraines, nausea, and extreme fatigue—because they have no choice. For some, these symptoms are not mild. They are debilitating. Research shows that up to 90% of people who menstruate experience period pain, and for many, it significantly impacts their ability to function at work. Studies also show that over 45% report needing time off due to menstrual symptoms, yet many still go to work in pain due to lack of support. (UVA Health) In fact, menstrual symptoms are estimated to cause hundreds of millions of lost work hours each year in the United States alone, with additional global economic impacts in the billions due to reduced productivity. (MDPI) Yet our current workplace policies don’t recognize this reality. We are calling on the Massachusetts legislature to take action. We are asking for a simple, reasonable policy:
- Up to 1–2 days of paid, job-protected leave per month for individuals experiencing severe menstrual symptoms
- Protection from workplace stigma or retaliation
- A policy that works alongside existing sick leave systems This isn’t about extra time off—it’s about acknowledging a real health issue that affects people’s ability to work safely and effectively. Massachusetts has always been a leader in worker protections and public health. It’s time to take the next step. Why this matters:
- No one should have to choose between their health and their paycheck
- Severe menstrual symptoms can significantly impact productivity, focus, and well-being
- Studies show workers can lose the equivalent of nearly 9 days of productivity per year due to menstrual symptoms
- Up to 1 in 3 people cancel daily activities due to menstrual-related pain or discomfort (The Independent) This is a recognized medical issue:
- Conditions like dysmenorrhea and endometriosis can cause severe, recurring pain and are widely recognized in medical research
- Around 1 in 3 people experience severe menstrual pain, and some are temporarily unable to work during their cycle (Mental Health America) Where policy is already evolving:
- Countries including Japan, South Korea, and Spain have implemented menstrual leave policies
- In the United States, laws like the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act and state-level paid sick leave policies already recognize the need for workplace health accommodations—but menstrual health remains largely unaddressed Other countries and employers have already begun implementing similar policies. Massachusetts can lead the way in the United States. Add your name if you believe:
- Workers deserve dignity and understanding
- Health conditions—visible or not—should be taken seriously
- Massachusetts should lead in equitable workplace policy   Sign this petition and help bring this issue to the Massachusetts General Court. Together, we can turn this into real change.