This month we’ve noticed that the conversation around women’s health, rights and support is picking up real momentum. From landmark policy shifts to powerful new campaigns and some long-overdue workplace changes, June has brought a wave of progress that’s worth shouting about. Here’s what we’ve been watching, talking about, and sharing about motherpause this month:
🗳️ Abortion decriminalised in England & Wales
In a historic move on 17 June, MPs voted overwhelmingly (379–137) to support an amendment tabled by Antonia Antoniazzi to remove criminal penalties for women who self-manage abortions. This comes after public outrage over recent prosecutions and years of campaigning from medical and reproductive justice organisations. While this doesn’t yet guarantee universal access, it’s a vital first step in recognising abortion as healthcare, not a criminal act.
🩸New research highlights lack of awareness of PMDD
After PMDD Awareness Month in April, research has revealed that 40% of UK adults have never heard of PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder), and nearly three in ten know the term but don’t understand it – highlighting a critical need for more education in the UK. Meanwhile, recent work from Durham University has shown that PMDD profoundly affects not only those diagnosed but also their partners, with both groups reporting significantly reduced quality of life and relationship satisfaction.
🛡️ “Pregnant & Protected” launches to offer free legal advice for women
If you’ve ever worried about being sidelined, demoted or dismissed while pregnant or on mat leave, this one’s for you. Employment rights solicitor Danielle Ayres launched Pregnant & Protected this month – a free service offering legal support and clear guidance for women facing pregnancy and maternity discrimination. Danielle previously ran Pregnant then Screwed‘s free legal helpline for the last ten years, so this will be an invaluable service for anyone experiencing discrimination during one of the most important moments in our life. It’s already helping women hold employers to account, and demand the fair treatment we all deserve.
🇵🇹 Portugal introduces menstrual leave for endometriosis
In a powerful show of recognition, Portugal has become one of the first European countries to offer up to three days of paid leave each month for women diagnosed with endometriosis or adenomyosis. Effective from April but gaining international attention this June, the law also improves access to treatment and fertility preservation. It’s a huge step forward in how we talk about – and legislate for – women’s pain.
👨👧👦 Calls for changes to outdated 2 week paternity leave
There’s growing pressure on the UK government to overhaul our outdated paternity leave system. Campaigners from groups like The Dad Shift and The Fatherhood Institute are calling for longer, paid leave for fathers, citing its proven impact on reducing the gender pay gap and supporting maternal wellbeing. More dads stepping up = more balance at home and work. And that’s a win for everyone.
👥 A new approach to severe postnatal illness
The RAPPORT study launched this month to explore how peer support in Mother & Baby Units can improve recovery for women experiencing severe perinatal mental illness -like postpartum psychosis or complex depression. It’s a timely project, tapping into the power of shared experience, which so many of us know can make all the difference in the hardest moments.
