Here’s a step in the right direction.

A Cork-based healthcare and research development company has taken the lead in recognising women’s needs with a proactive new policy.

Little Island-based Solvotrin Therapeutics has announced that its employees will now enjoy paid menstrual leave if their monthly period symptoms are debilitating.

The management team at the company, which produces the Active Iron supplement range, has also introduced access to free feminine hygiene products at work.

Its Better Days. Period. campaign is designed to prompt conversations around periods and to change the narrative about symptoms, such as menstrual fatigue, which 64 percent of menstruating women say they suffer.

Low iron is an issue that disproportionately affects women, as one in four has inadequate iron levels. Menstruation is the leading cause of iron loss worldwide, with women requiring up to three times more iron than men.

“We were shocked by our most recent research, indicating that 41 percent of women suffering period symptoms were told not to worry and ‘just get on with it.” said Head of Marketing, Claire Lynch.

“I am proud to work for a local business where policy reflects our brand values, and where women’s menstrual health is supported”.