2024-11-08 10:46:00
The University of Western Brittany, mainly located in Brest, voted on November 5 for the establishment of menstrual leave from September 2025. Students will be able to be absent in the event of severe pain.
A measure that is gaining ground. The University of Western Brittany, also called the University of Brest, voted on November 5 for the establishment of menstrual leave for female students from the start of the school year in September 2025, announced the student organizations Bouge Ton Campus and Fédé B on Instagram.
“We are proud to announce that UBO has just adopted the implementation of a menstrual leave system,” indicate the student associations.
“This project aims to offer menstruating people the opportunity to be absent in the event of significant pain, without impacting their attendance,” they say, and to “promote the mental and physical well-being of students.”
“With this system, the University of Brest is committed to well-being and equal opportunities by taking into account the specific needs of students,” assure the two student federations.
Before the University of Brest, several other higher education establishments had already taken the plunge. The University of Paris Est-Créteil has notably introduced the possibility of taking 12 days of menstrual leave during the year at the start of the school year in September.
Up to 20 days per year
Test phases must first be set up between January and March 2025, before a dedicated application and digital space are set up between March and June 2025. Finally, the system must be generalized at the start of the school year. student from September 2025.
It will then be possible for the people concerned to benefit from up to 20 days of absence during the year, with this new measure. All courses are affected.
It will be enough to declare the absence via the digital space created. No medical proof is mentioned as necessary. The students concerned will, however, be able to benefit from support from university health staff.
The system has already been established for municipal employees in several cities in France such as Saint-Ouen or Lyon. A bill to this effect was rejected by the Senate last February.
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**Interview with Marie Lefevre, Student Representative at the University of Western Brittany**
**Editor:** Marie, thank you for joining us today. Can you tell us about the recent decision made by the University of Western Brittany regarding menstrual leave?
**Marie Lefevre:** Thank you for having me! Yes, on November 5, the University of Western Brittany voted to introduce menstrual leave for female students starting from September 2025. This is a significant step forward for our university and acknowledges the challenges that many women face during their menstrual cycles.
**Editor:** What prompted this decision, and how do you feel it will impact students?
**Marie Lefevre:** The decision arose from ongoing discussions about student well-being and the importance of recognizing menstrual health as a legitimate concern. Many students encounter severe pain during their periods, which can hinder their academic performance and overall well-being. By allowing menstrual leave, we’re promoting a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students.
**Editor:** This measure has started to gain traction in other institutions as well. Do you think it will encourage other universities to adopt similar policies?
**Marie Lefevre:** Absolutely! This decision by UBO may serve as a model for other universities in France and beyond. Raising awareness about menstrual health is crucial, and I believe it can inspire broader conversations about women’s health rights in academic settings.
**Editor:** What kind of support do you think will be necessary for this policy to be effective?
**Marie Lefevre:** It will be essential to develop clear guidelines and support systems for students who need to utilize this leave. This means not only ensuring that students can easily communicate their needs but also that faculty members are trained to handle these situations with understanding and respect.
**Editor:** As a student leader, what message do you want to convey to your peers regarding this new policy?
**Marie Lefevre:** I want to encourage all students to advocate for their health and well-being. This policy is a step in the right direction, but it’s important for everyone to know their rights and utilize this support as needed. Let’s continue to work together to create an environment where everyone can thrive academically, free from the stigma or shame surrounding menstrual health.
**Editor:** Thank you, Marie, for your insights. It’s encouraging to see initiatives like this that prioritize student health and well-being.
**Marie Lefevre:** Thank you for shining a light on this important issue!
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