A story about 'menstrual leave' that hard-working women find hard to use.

Good evening, this is Minipono🌼

This time, I'd like to talk about something a little
delicate but important: the bodies of working women.

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This might be sudden, but to all the women out there,
have you ever used 'menstrual leave'?

It takes quite a lot of courage to say
'Please give me menstrual leave' at work, doesn't it?

I currently have a small uterine fibroid, so
thanks to the medication prescribed by my doctor, my menstrual cycle is regular
and the pain has subsided.

However, in my early 20s,
I struggled every month with irregular periods and severe pain.

Honestly, even though I wasn't in a state to work normally,
I would face my computer with a blank expression, telling myself 'I can't take time off just for a period,'
and spend every day working while masking the pain with medicine.

I'm sure there are many of you who, like my past self,
**have come to accept that 'working through the pain is normal.'**

The result of 'trying to be honest' with a male boss

Especially since I was in a workplace with many men,
I had given up from the start, thinking 'men couldn't possibly understand the pain of a period.'
But I also didn't want my poor physical condition to be mistaken for 'being in a bad mood,'
so I once gathered the courage to consult with two male bosses.

“Due to my hormonal cycle, there are days when I really don't feel well.
There are times when I get stomach pain.”

When I explained it in a slightly softened way,
to my surprise, both of them said the same thing.

“It's hard for me to understand 100%,
but it must be painful enough to warrant a leave system.
Don't push yourself, it's okay to take a break when you need to.”

I still can't forget the kindness of those bosses who tried to be supportive,
even if they didn't fully understand.

──However, since I was on the 'hard-working route' at the time,
I ended up never using menstrual leave until the end... (bitter laugh).

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To those of you who are suffering alone with the pain, like I used to.

If your monthly period is painful,
first try seeing a gynecologist.
By seeking medical help,
you might find that your daily life becomes surprisingly easier.

And remember, 'menstrual leave' is a natural right granted to women.

You, the kind person who is always considerate of others and tries too hard,
please do not push yourself when things are truly difficult,
and make sure to prioritize taking care of your own body.

🌼 Minipono is this kind of person ↓