Period leave- heard about it too many times in the last couple of days. And, it made me wonder about a lot of things. Is one period leave enough? Is period leave necessary? Can this be detrimental to the growth and promotion of female employees at work?
Also, in a country like India where talking about menstruation is itself a taboo, merely starting a debate about such kind of a day off is a bit far-fetched.
But, we gotta start somewhere, right!
I have come across many articles and discussions in the recent time about period leave and whether it would be the right move or not. And with Zomato granting their female employees period leaves, the discussion has reached several stratas of society, especially in India.
My take on this concept is somewhat mixed. And, here I am telling you why!
So, the first aspect that would could come to anyone’s mind is –
Is period leave necessary?
I feel it should not be a rule per se, but it certainly should be an option. Every woman has her share of good days and bad days when it comes to menstrual cramps. Sometimes it is a smooth sail, completely pain-free and at times it can get unbearable.
So, we should have a choice to take a period leave when it is difficult to even sit, let alone work for long hours.
Is one period leave enough?
Well, the excruciating pain of menstrual cramps can last for just a day for some and can even go on for 2-3 days. And obviously, more than one period leave is neither something the organizations would like nor would any career-oriented woman. Way out? Women should get the flexibility to split that one day leave into two half day leaves if they wish to do so. Moreover, we would not have to postpone our professional commitments on account of period leave.
Can it be detrimental to our professional growth?
The answer is a big NO. Amidst all those debates and discussion, this point did come to the fore. And, I see no logic as to how one day of leave can be detrimental to any one’s growth for that matter.
Period leave does not give an upper hand to male employees just because they are made differently. Professional growth of every individual depends on the dedication and persistence that one has towards their job or business. And one day of leave would not make much of a difference to that. Rather it would motivate women to perform better and work harder. After all, it is quality that counts!
Final Thoughts
Period leave becoming a mandate is improbable, at least for the time being. It would take several years for people, organizations and companies to understand and accept this ideology. But, what the organizations can do now for their women employees is make the work-space more period-friendly. How?
These are the few points I think should be considered and implemented :
- Sanitary Napkin vending machines
- Clean and hygienic bathrooms
- Provision of hot water bags
- Space to rest, if possible
- Work from home – well if not a leave, there should be a provision for women to work from home during their period days.
It would be a great start in this direction. Agree? Let me know your thoughts in the comment section below!