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NEW DELHI: Medical experts believe that mandatory leave for menstruating women is not necessary as only a minority experience symptoms severe enough to affect their ability to work. While some women may require rest or adjustments during their periods, placing all women on leave is not required, they say. The experts also agree with the Supreme Court’s observation that compulsory menstrual leave could inadvertently discourage employers from hiring women. Dr Rajesh Sagar, professor in the psychiatry department at AIIMS, said psychological symptoms linked to the menstrual cycle occur in a small proportion of women.
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Conditions such as premenstrual syndrome and premenstrual dysphoric disorder may cause anxiety, depression, irritability, mood swings and difficulty concentrating. “These manifestations are seen only in a minority, perhaps around 5% of women. Many are able to continue working and manage their symptoms. They are usually self-limiting,” he said. Given the variation, Sagar said a blanket policy may not be appropriate. “The decision should remain flexible and individual. Severe problems occur only in a small proportion, so it cannot be generalised,” he said, agreeing with the Supreme Court’s concern that mandatory leave could discourage employers from hiring women. Dr Tripti Raheja, director of obstetrics and gynaecology at C K Birla Hospital, Delhi, said menstrual discomfort is common but severe symptoms are less frequent. Nearly 70-80% of women experience some menstrual discomfort such as cramps, fatigue or headaches. However, about 10-20% face symptoms severe enough to interfere with work, particularly during the first one or two days of their cycle, she said. Conditions such as severe dysmenorrhea, endometriosis and heavy bleeding can sometimes cause debilitating pain, nausea or weakness. “In such cases, rest or a temporary reduction in workload may be medically advisable, just like any other health condition,” she said. Raheja added that acknowledging menstrual health in workplace policies is important, but rigid rules may not work. Flexible options such work-from-home arrangements could help women manage symptoms without creating unintended discrimination.
