Women battling endometriosis and adenomyosis have received fresh news as backing for a huge petition has soared, forcing MPs into a parliamentary debate. The campaign is pushing for a legal right allowing affected women to take three days of paid leave every month.

Endometriosis and adenomyosis are both conditions where tissue similar to the womb lining(endometrium) grows in the wrong places, causing pain, heavy periods, and fertility issues. The pain from these conditions can range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating agony, often described as sharp cramping, contractions similar to childbirth, or continuous pelvic pressure, sometimes so extreme it makes daily life impossible.

A petition on the Parliament website has surged by 25,000signatures in the last few days - meaning it has gone past 100,000. That means it will be discussed by MPs - and the Department for Business and Trade will have to defendits position in front of MPs and outline any potential changes.

The petition, started by Michelle Dewar, runs until January 29. It reads: "We call on the UK Government to introduce statutory paid menstrual leave of up to 3 days per month for people with conditions such as endometriosis and adenomyosis, following the model introduced in Portugal in 2025.

"We urge the UK Government to implement a statutory menstrual leave policy similar to the one recently passed in Portugal."

• Offer up to 3 days of paid menstrual leave per month for individuals with a valid medical diagnosis.

• Mandate only a single annual medical certificate confirming the condition.

• Ensure full employment protections, including no loss of pay, benefits or seniority.

• Guarantee confidentiality and non-discrimination in the workplace"

The Department for Business andTrade has responded after the petition attracted more than 10,000 signatures. Officials confirmed there are currently no proposals to introduce dedicated leave for women living with endometriosis and adenomyosis, though they highlighted upcoming worker rights reforms that might offer some support. Officials said: "The Government has no plans to introduce menstrual leave for those with endometriosis or adenomyosis. We know the hardship they cause.

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"The Department for Business and Trade has issued a response as the petition has garnered over 10,000 signatures. Officials stated that at present there were no plans to introduce leave for women suffering from endometriosis and adenomyosis, but mentioned potential reforms to worker rights which could be beneficial.Officials stated: "Our employment rights reforms will help manage health at work. We recognise the difficulty and pain many women with endometriosis, adenomyosis and other menstrual or reproductive health issues face.

""We understand that for some women, menstrual or reproductive health issues can have a significant impact on their physical and mental wellbeing, including their participation in education and the workforce. " The guidance explains that those suffering from severe symptoms may be classified as disabled, with employers required to offer assistance: "The Equality Act 2010 defines disability as a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on a person's ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities.

"'Long-term' is outlined as having persisted or expected to persist for at least 12 months, or expected to continue for the remainder of someone's life. 'Substantial' is characterised as more than minor or trivial. Endometriosis and adenomyosis can be classified as disabilities under this definition, meaning people living with a disability are shielded from discrimination and their employer must make reasonable adjustments. "Such measures might encompass gradual workplace reintegration, reduced hours or adaptable scheduling. Authorities have confirmed that the forthcoming Employment Rights Bill 'boosts access to this by making Statutory Sick Pay available to all eligible employees and payable from the first day of sickness absence.

'The document continues: "The Bill will also make flexible working the default except where not reasonably feasible.This will help workers with menstrual or reproductive health issues and their employers to agree solutions which work for both parties, ensuring they can access greater flexibility to balance their work and manage their condition."

To view the full petition, add your name and read the complete response, click here. The petition site will be updated when a date is set for the debate.