B2 – Upper Intermediate
Dysmenorrhea is a medical term used for menstrual cramps. Some women experience excruciating pain during their monthly period. The pain can be so tremendous that they may not be able to perform even mundane tasks. Recently, Spain passed numerous laws including the paid menstrual leave.
Let’s read the article and know more details about this new law in Spain and other countries that are already enforcing it.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2023/02/17/spain-paid-menstrual-leave-countries/
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does “contest” mean? “Menstrual leave legislation is contested, even among women.” Use it in your own sentence.
- Define the word “proponent“. “It is “becoming more common and contemporary proponents argue they can advance gender equality by normalizing menstruation.” Give two synonyms and one antonym.
- What does the word “gauge” mean?”… it is not easy to gauge the impact of these policies as yet.” Use it in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- What is your stand on Spain’s paid menstrual leave?
- Will this level the playing field in terms of gender equality or exacerbate gender discrimination?
- What other sexual and reproductive rights laws have been passed in your country recently?
- Do you agree that menstrual leave is perceived as a workplace entitlement? Why or why not?
- According to the article, what are the reasons other countries put forward in passing their menstrual leave?