Games Distributor GOG Introduces Menstrual Leave In Hallmark Move For Industry

Photo 232742875 © Bennnn | Dreamstime.com

In the traditionally male-dominated world of video games, digital gaming distributor GOG is taking the significant step of offering menstrual leave for employees enduring extreme discomfort that can impede their ability to work.

“Menstrual Leave fosters inclusiveness by accepting that there are biological differences in the workplace,” the company announced on LinkedIn earlier this month. “By giving additional days off for those experiencing menstrual period pain, we acknowledge these symptoms are real.”

The move dismisses the view that taking time off to tend to period pains and other related symptoms can make menstruating workers look less capable.

The extra rest days are fully paid, and employees can take additional time off should they need it, according to Axios, which first reported on GOG’s decision. There’s also the option to request for hours off instead of full days.

The Poland-based platform’s culture and communication manager Gabriela Siemienkowicz told the news outlet that the idea to offer menstrual leave stemmed from her own experiences with unbearable period pains. It turned out that fellow female coworkers fully resonated with her experience, and expressed at a meeting that they appreciated the possibility of taking time off to deal with biological issues, without eating into the usual paid-absence days.

The implementation makes GOG among the first in the gaming industry to introduce period leaves. Inspired by this, GOG’s parent company CD Projekt Red is looking to adopt the policy, which would affect about 1,124 employees, PC Gamer reports.

Menstrual rest days are currently being trialed at GOG, as the company hopes to observe how they’ll affect workers’ well-being through the year. If all goes well, GOG will expand the policy next year.

[via Kotaku, Axios, PC Gamer, cover photo 232742875 © Bennnn | Dreamstime.com]