University demands verification as student claims absence due to menstrual discomfort. - University presses for confirmation as student requests absence due to menstrual discomfort.
A student in Beijing, China, was met with a contentious dilemma when she sought sick leave from her university due to menstrual cramps. In a viral video, now offline, she questioned a university staff member about the necessity of providing physical proof of her menstrual condition to secure a sick note. The staff member reportedly replied affirmatively, citing school regulations.
The incident occurred at the clinic of Gengdan University, sparking widespread criticism on Chinese social media. Netizens compared the situation to absurd scenarios, such as bashing one's head for a headacheleave, or displaying a menstrual pad on a sick note. A university staff member explained the policy was instituted to authenticate menstruation and prevent misuse of sick leave.
In response, the university asserted that its staff followed "regulations" during the incident, and claimed the circulating videos were fabricated. The institution threatened legal action against those spreading false videos maliciously. The university's statement, on May 16, 2025, also stated that clinical treatment commenced with the student's consent, and no instruments or physical examination took place during the incident.
Despite no written policy mandating physical proof, the incident underscores a larger issue of how universities handle menstrual-related absences. There are calls for more respectful policies and reform in the face of humiliating practices that violate students' privacy rights. Legal experts describe such practices as degrading and advocate for clearer, more respectful policies. The student involved obtained necessary documentation from a hospital to support her claim of sick leave.
Reports suggest that the student's Chinese Tiktok account was suspended for 30 days for "pornographic content," with the video of the incident being the alleged reason. As of now, the university has not officially sanctioned such a physical proof requirement in a written policy. The imbroglio highlights the need for change in university policies regarding menstrual leave.
- The incident at Gengdan University has led to discussions in the health-and-wellness and women's health sectors, with many advocating for science-backed policies that address menstrual-related pain in a sensitive and respectful manner.
- The controversial requirement for physical proof of menstruation to secure sick leave at Gengdan University is being scrutinized by legal experts who argue that such practices are degrading and violate students' privacy rights, calling for clearer, more respectful policies in alignment with modern science.
