Spain’s law on sexual and reproductive health, which also provides for women’s right to leave during their menstrual cycle, came into force on Thursday, dpa reported, according to data. Agerpres.

The law, proposed by the gender equality ministry at the initiative of the left-wing government, was passed by parliament in February.

Since then, amendments to the new law have been adopted. Barriers that will facilitate access to abortion and gender reassignment for trans people have been virtually removed.

Following the parliamentary vote in February, Minister for Gender Equality Irene Montero called it a “historic day for the advancement of feminist rights”.

Menstrual leave is not a common norm, dpa notes. There is no similar provision in German legislation. In Taiwan, women can only stay at home three days a year, and then they only get 50% of their salary.

In South Korea, employers are required to give female workers one day of menstrual leave per month if they apply, but the law does not specify who will pay for those days.

In order to take menstrual leave, female workers in Spain need a doctor’s note. The duration of menstrual leave is in principle unlimited.

According to the law, the length of leave depends on how severe the pain is and how long it lasts. The costs are covered by the state.