Spain set to introduce 3 days of 'menstrual leave' for women

The Spanish government is set to pass a law that will see women suffering from severe period pain allowed to take up to three days off work each month.

Ángela Rodríguez, the Secretary of State for Equality and against Gender Violence, told El Periodico the new law would benefit those suffering from particularly painful periods.

"It is important to clarify what a painful period is, we are not talking about a slight discomfort, but about serious symptoms such as diarrhoea, severe headaches, fever," she said.

Spain will be the first nation in Europe to enact such a law, following the likes of Japan, South Korea and Taiwan.

First revealed by the Cadena Ser radio station, the new guidelines also include measures to improve menstrual health.

Schools are required to provide sanitary products for girls who need them.

For marginalised women, Value Added Tax (VAT) on pads and tampons will be removed.

Ms Rodríguez said, "One in four women cannot choose the feminine hygiene products she wants to buy for financial reasons. That is why we propose that they can be dispensed free of charge in educational and social centers."