UK charities call for menstrual leave for severe pain

It comes as Spanish politicians approve a new draft bill that would allow those with painful periods to have three days off a month.

Current UK employment law states workers should use sick leave if they need time off work.

Emma Cox from Endometriosis UK said: "We need to challenge the squeamishness and silence around menstrual health."

A spokesperson for period equality charity Bloody Good Period added: "We need to understand the experiences and challenges that people who menstruate face in the workplace, and then take steps to support them."

Studies estimate that four in five women experience menstrual pain.

If the Spanish legislation is passed, it will become the first European country to offer this type of leave.

Spain said the state social security system, not employers, would pay for it.

It is part of a number of reproductive health reforms in the country, including changes to abortion laws. The three-day sick leave for painful periods would be allowed with a doctor's note, and could extend to five days in extreme cases.Abbie left her job as a nurse due to endometriosis pain

Abbie Stapleton is a 26-year-old freelance photographer who had to leave her previous job as a nurse due to "debilitating and excruciating" period pain.

She has endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in other places, such as the ovaries.

"When I started as a nurse I had to go on extended sick leave because the pain was so bad," she told the BBC.

"I lost out on a social life, my friendships and relationships really suffered and I was housebound most of the time - I'd also spent many days in hospital and on strong pain relief."

Abbie said having the option of menstrual leave would have been really helpful.

"I think menstrual leave is really important, especially for those who have debilitating period pain and struggle to function, such as those with endometriosis, adenomyosis, PCOS and fibroids.

"It gives people time to rest, to prioritise their health, and it would also break down the stigma about period pain."