Hey NEN Fam! Today we're discussing a topic that's super important and sometimes a little bit intimidating—periods! I know they can feel a little scary or overwhelming at first, but don't worry! We've got you covered with some of our favorite tips and tricks to help make that time of the month a lot easier. Plus, we're sharing some amazing products that we absolutely love and trust to get us through those days smoothly. First, let's answer some questions:
Period FAQ
- Why do periods happen? Every month, the lining of the uterus thickens in preparation for an egg to drop from the ovary, become fertilized, and develop into a baby. Periods take place when the egg is not fertilized, so the uterine lining sheds. It's your body's natural cycle and a healthy sign that your body is doing what it needs to do!
- When do periods usually start? Most girls get their period between the ages of 11 and 15, but it could be earlier or later for some. Everyone is different, but your period typically starts about two years after puberty begins. So if you notice changes like growth spurts or the development of breast tissue, your first period might be right around the corner!
- How often do periods come and how long do they last? Periods tend to occur every 25-30 days, but it can vary for everyone. On average, periods last for a week, but they can be shorter or longer for some girls.
- Do pregnant women have periods? Not usually! When a woman is pregnant, the uterine lining is crucial in keeping the baby safe, so it doesn't shed each month.
- What are some symptoms I might experience? The most common symptoms are mood swings, cramps, bloating and soreness, fatigue, and appetite changes. Some people might have one or all of these symptoms, or entirely different ones! It's different for each person, so don't worry if your experience doesn't match exactly with someone else's.
- There's so many different menstrual products to choose from! Should I use pads, tampons, period underwear, menstrual cups, or something else!? You should use whatever product you feel most comfortable with! Some of our girls prefer pads, while others prefer tampons. We even have KennaDee who swears by menstrual cups! All of my girls also love to use period underwear. But, it's all about what makes the most sense for you and your body. Pads are a great place to start for those who are experiencing periods for the first time. But women of all ages wear them, especially overnight! Over time, you can stick with pads or transition to tampons and menstrual cups/discs. Tampons are great for swimming and sports, but they do come with some safety risks, so it's important to follow the directions closely. Menstrual cups and discs also tend to be better for what I call "period pros," girls who have years of experiences with periods. But again, it's all about what works for you and your body!
- What should I do with a used pad/tampon? Whatever you do, do NOT flush tampons or pads down the toilet! This could potentially clog the toilet or damage pipes because they can't break down properly like toilet paper can. You can put a used menstrual product in the leftover wrapper of the new one. You can also wrap it in toilet paper or a small trash bag before throwing it away!
- I'm a little embarrassed to say I'm on my period, is there anything I can say instead? People use all kinds of euphemisms for their periods! Our girls use "time of the month," "shark week," or "Aunt Flow." Some other popular ones are "monthly visitor" and "Code Red." Remember, you don't ever have to be embarrassed about your period because it's natural and normal, but it's okay to have a little fun with these names!
- Can everyone tell that you're on your period? Physically, no, but emotionally, sometimes! Because of the hormone differences during that time of the month, you might experience mood swings and heightened emotions.
Period Tips & Tricks
- While periods can be a pain sometimes, they're a sign that you're healthy and your body is doing what it needs to do!
- Bathe or shower often, even more than usual! On your period you tend to sweat more and smell different. So it's good to stay clean.
- Be prepared! Always keep a few period items in your everyday bag including pads/tampons, wipes, an extra pair of underwear, etc. Continue to the "Period Kit Products" section to hear more about what we keep in our period kits!
- Hydration is key, especially to help reduce bloating and discomfort.
- Don't forget to listen to your body! Sometimes extra rest or a cozy movie night is just what you need. On the other hand, a short walk or workout can improve your mood and relieve cramps.
Period Kit Products
One thing that can really help during your period is being prepared! We all keep a small period kit in our bags because you never know when you'll need them, and being ready can take away a lot of stress. Here is the full list of everything we keep in our period kits!
- Daily liners - These ultra-thin pads with low absorbency are great to have and wear on the days when your period might be starting or finishing up.
- Regular flow pads - Thin pads for a regular flow.
- Heavy flow pads - Great for heavy flow days.
- Click tampons - Compact tampons that are the perfect size to fit in your period kit! Don't forget to follow instructions to use them safely.
- Period underwear - Underwear with extra absorbency to wear with a pad, tampon, or on their own! They're great to have in case of a period emergency.
- Midol pills - What we use to help with cramps and other uncomfortable period symptoms. Other options include Ibuprofen, Tylenol, and Motrin. Always ask an adult before using medication!
- Midol Heat Vibes & ThermaCare heat pads - Great to soothe cramps.
- Clorox To Go Wipes packs - Perfect for disinfecting any surfaces like the toilet seats, door handles, etc.
- Mini trash bags - Used to easily dispose of used pads/tampons and other trash.
- Wet Ones Individual Wipes, Noshinku hand sanitizer spray, & Touchland hand sanitizer spray - To keep hands clean and fresh!
- Equate flushable wipes, Stall Mates wipes, & Summer’s Eve wipes - These are to keep everything down there clean and fresh!
- Lume mini deodorant & Fomin deodorant wipes - To keep everywhere feeling and smelling fresh.
- Starface Acne Patches & Oil sheets - To prevent and aid hormonal breakouts.
- Tide Stick & Tide to go wipes - To fix any stains from leaks or accidents on the go.
- Hershey Mini Bars & Hershey Nuggets - Our favorites for a little pick-me-up because periods can be hard sometimes!
Remember, you're not alone on this journey. All of my girls and I are here to support you! Let's make this a safe space to learn, share, and grow together.
To see us pack our 2024-25 period kits, watch here:
