Meg Baxter, Period Pro from Indiana University School of Medicine
Meg Baxter, Period Pro
Managing your period at school can feel like one more thing to think about during a busy day. Whether you’ve already started your period or are still waiting for your first one, being prepared can help you feel more comfortable and confident. With a little planning, you can be ready to handle your period at school, whenever it arrives!
Let’s Pack a Period Kit
The best way to feel prepared at school is to have a designated period bag. This can be a small pouch or pencil bag that you keep in your school bag, locker, or gym bag, and we’re going to give you the tools you need to keep it stocked.
Your kit might include:
– 3-5 pads, tampons, or other period products you feel comfortable using
– A clean pair of underwear
– Pain reliever (with permission from your caregiver and if allowed at your school)
– Hand sanitizer
– Unscented wipes
– And anything else you might want: chapstick, deodorant, hair ties, etc.
Keeping this bag stocked and handy means you can feel comfortable at school even if you get your period unexpectedly. Also, you can help out your friends if someone else is caught off guard.
Navigating Bathroom Breaks
Sometimes periods don’t follow your class schedule. You may need to use the restroom to change a pad or tampon, clean up a leak through clothes, or simply take care of your body.
If you need to take a bathroom break, it is okay to say, “I need to use the restroom for a personal health reason.” You never need to feel embarrassed about taking care of yourself.
If you are having trouble getting the bathroom access you need, talk with a trusted adult, such as a parent or caregiver, teacher, school nurse, or counselor. They are on your side and can help you figure out what to do.
What If You Don’t Have a Period Product?
No worries, it happens! Maybe your period arrived early, you forgot to refill your kit, or a friend needs help. Ask your school nurse, health office, counselor, or a trusted teacher whether your school provides free period products.
And remember: period products are basic health supplies. It’s okay to ask for what you need. If products aren’t available at your school yet, consider talking to a trusted adult about how you can advocate for better access at your school.
Periods are normal!
Half of the population experiences what you are currently going through. Leaks happen. Forgetting a pad happens. We’ve all been there. None of those things are something to be ashamed of.
Being prepared doesn’t mean everything will always go perfectly. But it means you have a plan in place when something unexpected happens. Pack your kit, know who you can ask for help, and remember: you deserve to feel safe, comfortable, and confident at school.