The Rise of Menstrual and Health Depart: A New Frontier in Workplace Wellbeing
For millions of women, managing the impact of menstruation, endometriosis, and other chronic health conditions at work is a significant challenge. While not yet enshrined in French law, a growing number of companies are pioneering a new approach: dedicated health leave, including provisions for menstrual cycles. Enercoop, a renewable energy cooperative, is at the forefront of this movement, offering its 180 Parisian employees up to eight days of paid leave per year, with no requirement for medical justification.
Beyond Menstruation: A Holistic Approach to Employee Health
Enercoop’s initiative extends beyond simply addressing menstrual pain. The company’s health leave policy encompasses a broader range of conditions, including autoimmune diseases, chronic illnesses, migraines, hormonal imbalances, and the effects of hormonal treatments. This inclusive approach recognizes that various health challenges can significantly impact an employee’s ability to perform their job effectively.
Creating a Supportive Workplace Culture
Enercoop has created a dedicated rest area equipped with comfortable seating and hot water bottles, acknowledging the physical discomfort many employees experience. This tangible support, combined with the ease of accessing health leave, aims to destigmatize health issues and foster a more open and understanding workplace culture.
“There are hot water bottles because several people may be affected by chronic and regular pain. So, we can use them to soothe ourselves,” explains Delphine, Head of Training Development at Enercoop.
The Impact on Employees: Reducing Mental Load and Guilt
For employees like Barbara, who lives with endometriosis, the policy is transformative. Diagnosed in 2021, she had previously struggled with the emotional burden of needing to rest during painful flare-ups. “When those periods come, and you start to feel unwell at work and you’re not allowed to stop at that moment, it creates a bit of a mental load, embarrassment, shame,” she shared. The health leave policy eliminates the require for constant justification and allows her to prioritize her wellbeing without guilt.
“I’m not obliged to be in front of my computer and work at half-mast. Now, I can stop because I have endometriosis. I’ve already been diagnosed. I don’t need to provide an annual, monthly, or any kind of medical certificate. And that’s appreciable,” Barbara added.
Benefits for Employers: Increased Wellbeing and Productivity
Enercoop’s Director General, Béatrice Delpech, emphasizes the positive impact on the company as a whole. “Everything that contributes to the wellbeing of employees in a company benefits the company. It’s not why we do it, but it does result in attachment to the work, a desire to be there and feel good. So, I think that should appeal to all companies.”
A Growing Trend: Pioneering Companies Lead the Way
Enercoop Midi-Pyrénées was an early adopter, implementing a gynecological health leave policy as early as October 2024, offering 13 days of leave per year. This demonstrates a growing momentum towards recognizing and supporting employees’ health needs. While Spain became the first European country to legislate menstrual leave in 2023, French companies are taking the initiative, paving the way for potential future legislation.
Enercoop Nationale signed an agreement with unions in the summer of 2025 to test health leave, including menstrual and hormonal leave, for its employees.
FAQ
What is menstrual leave?
Menstrual leave is a type of leave that allows employees to seize time off work during their menstrual cycle, particularly when experiencing debilitating symptoms.
Is menstrual leave legally required in France?
No, menstrual leave is not currently legally required in France, but some companies are implementing it voluntarily.
What other health conditions can be covered by health leave policies?
Health leave policies can cover a range of conditions, including autoimmune diseases, chronic illnesses, migraines, hormonal imbalances, and the effects of hormonal treatments.
Do employees need a medical certificate to access health leave?
At Enercoop, employees do not need a medical certificate to access the eight days of health leave per year.
What are the benefits of offering health leave to employees?
Offering health leave can improve employee wellbeing, reduce stress and guilt, increase productivity, and foster a more supportive workplace culture.
Did you know? A 2021 IFOP survey revealed that half of menstruating individuals in France suffer from painful periods, with or without an underlying medical condition.
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