No, this is not fake news. Italy is becoming the first country in Europe to offer female workers paid menstrual leave. Women who suffer from dysmenorrhea, a condition that makes periods extremely painful will have three days of paid leave each month. Cramps can range from mild to severe, but anyone who has curled up in ball, popping Ibuprofen like Tic-Tacs knows that going into the office during that “time of the month” is not an ideal situation. Period pain can range from the pelvis or abdomen to back pain, diarrhea, and nausea. 

While the proposal is being celebrated by many as a step in the right direction, some are arguing that if the law is passed, it may risk making workplace inequality worse. Supporters fear it may contribute to discrimination against women by employers, similar to maternity discrimination women are still faced with.

“It has been shown that women who suffer severe pain during their period are much less productive in these days,” said Simonetta Rubinato, a politician who put the law forward with three other female lawmakers.

“Recognising their right to be absent from work during that time means they will be much more productive when they return.”

Still we can only hope the United States follows Italy’s lead soon. Paid period leave is already in action in Japan, Taiwan, South Korea and Indonesia. We’re sure every single woman who’s ever been traumatized by cramps is totally here to bring paid period leave to the States.