Spain Offers Paid Leave for Painful Menstrual Periods, Expands Access to Abortion

Spain becomes the first country in Europe to offer paid leave for painful menstrual periods, Reuters reports. 

The draft bill, which also includes plans to guarantee access to abortion, was approved on Tuesday by the Socialist-led government. The draft bill will go to a public hearing and a vote in the lower house of parliament before it can be approved. 

The new bill will eliminate the need for parental consent for women aged 16-17 to seek an abortion. 

“Today we send an international message of support to all women who are fighting for their sexual and reproductive rights,” Equality Minister Irene Montero told reporters.

According to an article published in the Epidemiology Review, upwards of 29% of women suffer from severe dysmenorrhea in the United States. 

While many have celebrated the bill, critics argue that the bill may be a barrier for women seeking employment.