Refer China: Shanghai Officially Allows One Paid Day Off for Menstrual Leave

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Shanghai Officially Allows One Paid Day Off for Menstrual Leave

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Recently, the topic "Many regions clarify menstrual leave for female employees" has gone viral across Chinese social media, sparking widespread attention.

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According to the latest statistics, nearly 20 provinces and cities across China—including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangdong, Zhejiang, and Yunnan—have officially incorporated menstrual leave into their local labor policies. Most offer 1–2 days of rest, with some allowing up to 3 days.

Shanghai: One Paid Day Off for Menstrual Pain

What many people may not know is that Shanghai has granted menstrual leave for over 35 years.

Back in 1987, the Shanghai government issued temporary labor protection regulations for female workers, stipulating that women engaged in cold environments, water-based tasks, or fieldwork could receive one public day off during their menstrual period. The same policy extended considerate measures to women on frontline production jobs.

Further clarification came in 1990 with the "Shanghai Labor Protection Measures for Female Employees," which specified that women performing high-altitude, low-temperature, cold-water, or field labor—as well as tasks requiring high physical exertion—should either be reassigned or granted a public day off during menstruation.

A Progressive Policy That Struggles to Be Realized

Despite these longstanding regulations, challenges remain. According to public reports, many female workers are unaware of the policy. Some employers fail to implement it, and others impose barriers that discourage leave applications—such as requiring medical documentation from hospitals.

One worker in Beijing shared her frustrating experience: "I applied once for menstrual leave, and never again. I'd rather suffer at work." She described the exhausting process of obtaining a hospital certificate, which included blood tests, an ultrasound, and over 300 yuan in costs—just to justify a one-day leave.

Expert Opinions: Better Policy Enforcement Needed

Experts stress the importance of clear implementation guidelines and strict oversight. Companies failing to comply should face penalties.

Additionally, governments are encouraged to introduce incentives for businesses—such as tax breaks or financial subsidies—to alleviate cost pressures and promote compliance, ultimately enhancing the sense of security for female employees.

Source: 上观新闻