Key Takeaways:
- One in four women feel the need to make up excuses to explain their absence from work due to period pain.
- Spain becomes the first country in the western world to allow sick leave for incapacitating menstruation.
- INTIMINA launches “Useless Spanish Lessons” campaign to break the taboo and stigma around discussing menstrual discomfort in the workplace.
In a bid to tackle the stigma surrounding menstrual pain and time off from work, INTIMINA, an intimate well-being brand, has launched a new campaign called “Useless Spanish Lessons.” The campaign aims to shed light on the common excuses no longer needed by people who menstruate in Spain, as the country has become the first in the western world to introduce paid leave for incapacitating menstruation. This groundbreaking development has the potential to challenge the stigma associated with discussing periods in the workplace.
Breaking Taboos with “Useless Spanish Lessons”
The Useless Spanish Lessons campaign, launched ahead of Menstrual Hygiene Day, takes the form of a parody language tutorial video. It features phrases commonly used as excuses when calling in sick due to menstrual pain, such as “I have a mystery virus” or “I have food poisoning due to a dodgy prawn.” While these phrases were once used to mask the real reason for absence, they are now redundant in Spain, where individuals can openly take sick leave for period-related symptoms. The video humorously teaches viewers how to say these phrases in Spanish, emphasizing that they will never need to use them.
Spain Leads the Way with Menstrual Leave
Spain has taken a significant step forward in supporting individuals who experience incapacitating menstrual pain. As of February 2023, it became the fourth country in the world, alongside Japan, South Korea, and Zambia, to offer paid leave specifically for period pain. This progressive move recognizes the need to prioritize menstrual health and well-being in the workplace, challenging the taboos and stigma that often surround the topic.
The Impact of Menstrual Pain on the Workplace
Research conducted by INTIMINA reveals that one in four working women feel the need to invent excuses to explain their absence from work due to period pain. In the United Kingdom, nearly two-thirds of British working women support the idea of paid period leave, and half of those surveyed admitted they would have used it if available. However, only a small percentage of these women have had employers who were open to providing time off for extreme period symptoms.
The lack of understanding and sympathy surrounding menstrual pain has led many individuals to suffer in silence and continue working despite their discomfort. This can have a detrimental impact on their mental health and overall well-being. INTIMINA’s campaign aims to break down the barriers of discussing periods openly and honestly in the workplace, advocating for a world where menstruation is no longer a source of shame or stigma.
Partnering for Change: INTIMINA and WASH United
To further their mission of achieving universal paid menstrual leave and a world where menstruation does not hinder anyone’s progress, INTIMINA has partnered with WASH United, an advocacy and education group. This collaboration aims to raise awareness about the importance of open discussions surrounding menstruation and promote the adoption of paid menstrual leave worldwide.
Dr. Susanna Unsworth, a Gynaecology Specialist for INTIMINA, highlights the impact of menstrual symptoms on individuals’ physical and mental well-being. She emphasizes the need for people to have the option to take time off when experiencing severe discomfort and calls for more support in ensuring their well-being.
Thorsten Kiefer, CEO at WASH United, reinforces the importance of treating menstrual symptoms like any other health issue and ensuring that women suffering from debilitating menstrual pain have access to paid leave. The goal is to eliminate stigmatization and discrimination based on menstruation, creating an inclusive environment for all.
A Step Towards a More Understanding World
INTIMINA’s “Useless Spanish Lessons” campaign serves as a powerful reminder of the progress made in Spain regarding menstrual health and workplace support. By challenging the need for excuses and fostering open conversations about menstruation, the campaign aims to contribute to a future where paid menstrual leave is guaranteed for all who need it.
This Menstrual Hygiene Day, let’s strive for a world where periods are no longer a barrier and where individuals can address their menstrual health without fear or shame.
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZApZp9KGBSk&ab_channel=INTIMINA
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