PODGORICA, Montenegro – Montenegro's Parliament has approved amendments to the country's Health Insurance Law, granting women diagnosed with secondary dysmenorrhea the right to two days of paid leave each month.
The initiative, proposed in March by independent MP Jevrosima Pejović, received unanimous support from both the Parliamentary Committee on Health, Labour and Social Welfare and the Legislative Committee before being passed by lawmakers.
Women With Diagnosed Medical Conditions Eligible
Under the new legislation, the benefit applies to women suffering from painful menstrual cycles caused by medically diagnosed conditions, including endometriosis, uterine fibroids, endometrial polyps, ovarian inflammation, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
The law officially recognizes secondary dysmenorrhea as a temporary inability to work, allowing affected women to take paid medical leave specifically related to their condition.
Annual Medical Certification Required
To qualify, the diagnosis must be confirmed by a specialist physician. Women covered by the health insurance system will be required to renew their medical certificate annually by December 31 and submit it to their employer by January 30 of the following year.
Aiming to Improve Women's Health and Workplace Equality
According to the explanatory memorandum accompanying the amendments, the new measures are intended to protect women's health, reduce workplace stigma surrounding menstrual disorders, and promote a healthier balance between professional responsibilities and personal well-being.
The legislation places Montenegro among a growing number of countries introducing workplace protections for women suffering from severe menstrual health conditions.