Paid Menstrual Leave?

A handful of countries, such as Japan, Taiwan, Indonesia, and South Korea, mandate a legal right for women to take time off from work due to menstruation. Basically, here's how it works: women who suffer period pain or whose job might worsen it, are allowed a couple of days per month (or year depending on where) for paid menstrual leave.

Is this reverse sexism or a necessary benefit? 

Turns out, the issue is surprisingly pretty complicated. Some argue that this policy is “a symbol for women’s emancipation. It represented their ability to speak openly about their bodies, and to gain social recognition for their role as workers.” Others say it makes women seem "weaker" or that paid menstrual leave will increase the gender pay gap due to the extra costs (potentially, an employer might be less willing to pay women as much due to the cost of this benefit).

Although periods aren't dehabilitating for most, keep in mind that about 20% women experience menstrual pain so severe that it interferes with their daily life and activities. 

What do you think? Is this the right or wrong way to go? Would you take advantage of a benefit like this?