‘We grin and bear it’: Sophie Dillman slams Australia’s lack of menstrual leave

A Home And Away star has hit out at the lack of support for women who suffer from menstrual pain, claiming “if men had periods, they would not have to work”. HAVE YOUR SAY.

Home And Away actor Sophie Dillman has added her voice to the push for ‘menstrual leave’ to be introduced in Australia.

The star of the hit TV soap has been vocal about her battle with often debilitating illness, endometriosis.

“We didn’t ask for periods let alone period pain,” Dillman told Confidential.

“Our whole existence, we have been taught to grin and bear it, that periods are not that bad, but I bet you any money that if men had periods, they would not have to work those days and they would be paid those days leave every single month.”

Dillman is much loved for playing popular character Ziggy Astoni on the Channel 7 family TV drama.

Sophie Dillman, a star from Home And Away, believes Australia needs menstrual leave for women. Picture: Nigel Hallett

She is nominated for the Silver Logie Most Popular actor at the awards that will be held on the Gold Coast on Sunday.

The issue of menstrual leave, paid or otherwise, has been a hot topic over recent months.

Menstrual leave is additional time off for those who experience severe period pain.

The ABC recently cited University of Sydney research that found 17 countries have implemented or are considering menstrual policies with Australia emerging as a global leader on the issue.

“Periods are becoming a far less taboo topic,” said Dillman, who is an ambassador for Endometriosis Australia.

Sophie Dillman pictured with her partner Patrick O'Connor. Picture: Sam Ruttyn

“Sure, the initial conversations can be slightly awkward for some people, especially those who grew up not speaking about it, but we get so much further after that slight discomfort for every single woman.”

Dillman explained that in her workplace, cast and crew are very supportive with her illness.

“With endometriosis, periods are particularly horrific,” she said.

“But I must say, everyone at Home And Away are fantastic in supporting me if I’m in pain.

“Everyone will hold my hot water bottle between takes, wardrobe is supportive of my costume needs to change because I’m bloated, people will let me sit if I need to.

“I’m very lucky, because I know not everyone has such a supportive working environment.”