Karnataka has become the first State in the country to approve one day of paid menstrual leave per month for all women employees, covering both government and private sectors. Odisha and Bihar have similar policies for government employees, while Kerala has implemented this in universities.
Cleared recently by the Karnataka Cabinet, the policy is being hailed as a progressive measure recognising menstrual health as a legitimate workplace concern. The leave, amounting to 12 days a year, applies to women in government offices, educational institutions, factories, and private organisations.
While the move has received widespread appreciation, it has sparked debate on whether a single day of leave is sufficient and whether it will achieve its intended purpose.
How it came about
Describing the decision as a “momentous occasion,” Sapna S., associate dean and head, school of law, Christ (Deemed-to-be) University, said it marks a progressive step towards gender equity and aligns with the principles of affirmative action enshrined in the Constitution.
Dr. Sapna, who chaired the 18-member committee that drafted the policy, said it resulted from extensive consultations and comparative studies. “We reviewed global practices from countries such as Finland and Japan. The committee included gynaecologists, psychiatrists, professors, employers, employees, NGOs, and trade unions. Though there were suggestions to reduce the leave to half a day or change the name, our persistence paid off, and the government approved 12 days, aligning with our original proposal,” she said.
On concerns of misuse, she said that a sub-committee will frame implementation guidelines for the policy. “Misuse can occur with any law. But accommodating menstrual leave can boost productivity and employee well-being in the long run.” She also emphasised the need for sensitisation programmes to prevent stigma or discrimination, adding, “Female-intensive workplaces should have these provisions intact, as they reflect the true spirit of gender equity.”
Citing global research, Dr. Sapna said menstrual pain was a serious health concern. “A 2018 Quartz article quoted John Guillebaud, a reproductive health professor at University College London, as saying patients described menstrual cramps as ‘almost as bad as having a heart attack.’ That itself underscores the need for understanding and supportive policies,” she noted.
Addressing root causes
Gynaecologists note that menstrual experiences vary widely, from mild discomfort to debilitating pain. Some women may experience fatigue, mood swings, migraines, or heavy bleeding, while others may have minimal symptoms.
Hema Divakar, division director at Well Women Healthcare, International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (FIGO), said conditions such as adenomyosis, endometriosis, fibroids, or hormonal imbalances can cause severe pain or heavy bleeding and require medical treatment. “Instead of blindly asking for a day’s leave, girls and women should undergo a wellness check to identify and address root causes. Many of these issues can be fixed,” she said.
While welcoming the policy, she cautioned that menstrual leave may be more symbolic than practical. “Menstruation is a recurring physiological process affecting each woman differently. Pregnancy leave allows the mother’s body to recover and facilitates bonding with the newborn. Granting a one-day leave for menstruation may not make much sense,” she said. She also warned that mandatory menstrual leave could inadvertently reinforce workplace bias. “From an employer’s perspective, there may be hesitation in assigning women critical roles or leadership responsibilities if they are perceived as taking frequent leave. This could deepen gender inequity,” she noted.
Stating that menstruation was no longer a “hush-hush” subject thanks to greater awareness through education and social media, Dr. Divakar said: “Prevent illness, promote wellness should be the mantra. The focus should be on helping women manage menstrual discomfort effectively rather than offering a symbolic one-day off.”
Legitimate health requirement
Suhasini Inamdar, senior consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospitals, Bengaluru, said menstrual leave was a woman’s right. “In ancient times, women took four days off from household work purely for rest, to preserve physical and emotional well-being, not as a sign of impurity. The original intent has been lost over time,” she said.
Calling the policy a “welcome and much-needed step,” Dr. Inamdar said it recognises menstrual health as integral to overall well-being. “Many women experience discomfort, fatigue, or pain that affects concentration and productivity. Offering a day’s paid leave acknowledges this reality,” she said. Severe menstrual pain, or dysmenorrhea, affects women of all ages, particularly younger women or those with gynaecological conditions. Stress, lack of exercise, and poor sleep can further aggravate symptoms. Persistent pain should be medically evaluated rather than dismissed as normal, Dr. Inamdar emphasised.
For mild to moderate discomfort, simple measures such as hot compresses, hydration, light exercise, and rest can help. Over-the-counter pain relief may also be used. For severe or recurrent pain, consultation with a gynaecologist is essential. “Conditions like endometriosis or fibroids require targeted treatment, which could include hormonal therapy or lifestyle adjustments,” Dr. Inamdar noted.
Need for awareness
For women living with painful periods or conditions such as endometriosis, adenomyosis, fibroids, or PCOS, menstrual leave can make a significant difference, said Sunitha Mahesh, medical director and senior consultant gynaecologist at Milann Birthing Hospital, Bengaluru.
“These conditions can cause severe cramps, heavy bleeding, and exhaustion, making it difficult to get through daily life. Having the option to take a day off allows women to rest without using their regular sick leave,” Dr. Mahesh said. However, she emphasised that severe or unusually heavy periods should not be dismissed as normal. “It’s important to consult a gynaecologist to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment – whether through medication, a procedure, or lifestyle changes – to make future cycles easier to manage,” she said.
Dr. Mahesh highlighted the need for greater awareness among women, noting that many assume intense pain or heavy bleeding is normal and therefore delay seeking medical help. “Learning about these conditions and consulting a doctor can help women stay active and productive,” she said.
Focus on well-being
While menstrual leave can offer temporary relief, Dr. Mahesh underlined that addressing the root cause is key for long-term well-being. She also called for workplace policies that are flexible, optional, and free from stigma. “Every woman’s cycle is different, and symptoms can vary widely. Policies should be sensitive, and no one should feel pressured to disclose personal details or fear that taking leave will affect their performance,” she said.
With greater awareness, access to healthcare, and supportive workplace environments, Dr. Mahesh said women can better manage their health, reduce stress, and continue to perform effectively at work.
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