On 27 March 2025, the Portuguese Parliament enacted Law No. 32/2025, which aims to enhance the rights of individuals diagnosed with endometriosis or adenomyosis. The law seeks to improve access to healthcare and introduces provisions for justified absences from work and educational activities, thereby amending the Labour Code.
Under the new legislation, individuals may be granted justified absences from work or academic obligations for up to three consecutive days per month, without forfeiting any rights. This is contingent upon the submission of a medical certificate confirming the diagnosis and the severity of the associated disabling pain. Notably, this certificate does not require monthly renewal and must be presented to the employer or educational institution.
The law also introduces a co-payment scheme for medications used in the treatment and management of endometriosis and adenomyosis. This includes progestogens and other drugs prescribed by a specialist within the National Health Service (SNS). The specifics of the co-payment scheme will be established through a ministerial ordinance to be published within 30 days following the law’s entry into force.
In addition, Law No. 32/2025 ensures the right to fertility preservation, permitting the cryopreservation of oocytes. This procedure, including both collection and storage, will be provided through the SNS. The right also applies to individuals with other medical conditions that compromise fertility and may impact future plans for parenthood.
The legislation incorporates Article 252-B into the Portuguese Labour Law, specifying that employees suffering from incapacitating menstrual pain due to endometriosis or adenomyosis are entitled to up to three consecutive days of justified, paid leave per month. A medical certificate serves as sufficient justification for the absence and is not subject to monthly renewal. The provisions of Article 254 of the Portuguese Labour Law shall also apply.
Law No. 32/2025 will enter into force on 26 April 2025, thirty days after its official publication.
