Spain approves menstrual leave and abortion for over 16s without parental consent bill

The Spanish government has approved a bill allowing women over the age of 16 to have abortions without the consent of their parents or guardians. 

Pending congressional go-ahead, the cabinet passed the measure easing the previous abortion law from 2010, when it was modified by the conservative People's Party.

The main change is that 16- and 17-year-olds, as well as disabled women, will no longer need permission from their parents or guardians to have an abortion.

"I am sure they still will rely on the support of their parents, relatives and friends, but they will make the final decision themselves," said equality minister, Irene Montero.

The bill also gets rid of the three-day reflection period for people seeking abortions, which will have to be available in all public medical centers while respecting conscientious objectors. Most abortions currently take place in private or semi-private clinics, although they are refunded by social security, and some women end up having to travel long distances to obtain one. 

Menstrual leave

The legislation allows for menstrual pain leave for however long doctors deem it to be necessary. According to the equality minister, Irene Montero, Spain will become "the first country in Europe" to pass such a measure if it is greenlighted by lawmakers in congress. 

"Working with pain or having to take painkillers to work is over," she said during a press conference on Tuesday. "Periods will no longer be taboo, and menstrual health will be part of the legal framework for the first time ever."