Modibodi becomes one of the first companies to offer menstrual, menopause, miscarriage and baby loss leave to workers

An Australian company has become one of the first to launch a new leave policy entitling its employees to paid leave for menstruation, menopause, miscarriage and pregnancy loss.

Modibodi, a leak-proof apparel brand, has announced the policy will enable workers to take paid time off for these reasons without using up their sick leave.

CEO and founder of Modibodi, Kristy Chong, says it's part of the company's efforts to "normalise conversations about menstruation" and to "remove any stigma and shame" associated with this normal, natural part of life.

"To help change those attitudes, we need to start in our own office, and this new policy is one action we can take now to help do that," she tells 9Honey.

Chong explains workers can take the days needed as paid leave, or utilise the work from home option if they are feeling discomfort.

"We want our staff to be able to be honest about their experiences of menstruation, menopause and miscarriage by encouraging people to feel comfortable asking for support and understanding when they need it," she continues.

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"We feel it's important to raise awareness about the fact some people experience uncomfortable, sometimes severe symptoms during menstruation, menopause or miscarriage.

"We're acknowledging the fact every individual's experience of their cycle is different, and we believe having a specific policy helps break down stigma and taboos so people don't need to lie or feel awkward taking days off when they're suffering."

Chong's grand vision is to see these sorts of honest conversations being had in more workplaces, as well as at home and in schools so they aren't seen as "taboo" subjects.

"To do this, we as individuals, parents, friends and colleagues need to work together to replace shame with understanding and empathy," she says.

Addressing the claim such policies are "regressive" and promote "gender inequality", Chong says she doesn't believe this is the case.

"Painful periods are a medical condition experienced by some, but not all people who menstruate, and the idea that companies might use this argument not to implement a policy which supports their staff seems regressive in itself," she continues.

Chong is looking forward to seeing the policy "boost productivity, loyalty and openness" in the Modibodi workplace.

"I'll be disappointed if it's perceived by others as a regressive step for employees who menstruate, are going through menopause, or suffer a miscarriage," she continues.

"We're doing what we feel is right for our employees, and we've never been afraid to take action because of the backlash we might receive, and this is no different.

"We want to open up conversations about menstruation, menopause and miscarriage generally to help encourage widespread change in eliminating the stigma that's long been attached to these normal bodily functions."

Contact Jo Abi at jabi@nine.com.au.