When I was younger, I was very nervous every time my period came.  I was always afraid that stains would show through my clothes if I had a  large flow, and I wasn’t really sure what to do.  I never really had anyone to talk to about period questions, as my mom never brought it up, and I was too embarrassed to talk to anyone else about it.  

When it comes time for my daughter to start have her period, I want to make sure she is prepared not only for it to start, but all the little things that could happen along the way.  I have a few tips for any girls out there who may be struggling with some of these same concerns.  Moms…feel free to share with your daughters… a girl’s period is a wonderful, yet scary time in your daughter’s life!

How to avoid getting stains on your undergarments (or at least be prepared):

  • When you know you are going to get your period, start wearing a pantyliner a day or so ahead of time so you have a little protection from any stains happening.
  • Once you do get your period (or even a couple days before) wear underwear that you only wear during this time of the month.  This way if they do happen to get a little stain on them, it will only be your “period underwear” and not the good ones you like to wear other times.
  • Be sure to change your pad/tampon every 4-6 hours, or more if you have a heavy flow.

What to do if you get stains on your undergarments:

  • Soak in cold water and wash as soon as possible.  The stains should come out if you can wash it the same day it happens.  Sometimes adding a little vinegar will help if you don’t have  chance to wash right away.
Cleanliness when you have your period:
  • It is important to keep yourself clean, especially “down there.”  Be sure to use fresh pads and tampons throughout the day!
  • Be sure to shower every day, and clean yourself thoroughly.
  • I don’t recommend sleeping in a tampon, but read the package instructions and follow the directions listed their for best practices.

Traveling or staying at a friend’s house while on your period:

  • This may actually seem like a really scary thing, but trust me, it is not.  Just be sure to pack along enough pads/tampons to get you through the time you will be away from home.
  • If you are worried about someone noticing that you have your period, there are lots of ways to be discreet.  Most pads or tampons can easily fit into a pocket so you can conceal them until you get to a bathroom.  If you don’t have pockets, just hide them in the palm of your hand, with your hand sort of cupped around it.  Keep your hand slightly hidden by your side so others won’t notice.  You can even tuck it into the waste of your pants and cover it with your shirt until you reach the bathroom.

Mood changes, cramps, and what to do:

  • You may feel very moody, angry, or just miserable.  It is not the end of the world, you just have to learn to deal with it. If you feel like it is really horrible, talk to your parents about the possibility of taking something like Midol. This really does help with my moodiness when it is that time of the month.
  • Cramps have always been an issue for me. I get really bad cramps, and it can be especially scary for someone experiencing this for the first time.  There are several things you can do. Heating pads or strips have worked really well for me to ease some of the back pain.  Again, taking Midol can also really help (if your parents approve). Try to avoid sugary treats as this can make it worse. Stay active; being active can actually help reduce some of the symptoms.

If you still have additional questions beyond what I talked about here there are lots of places you can go for helpful tips and advice.  The U by Kotex forum is a website specifically designed for teens to help answer any questions.  Check it out because they have lots of helpful advice!

Moms, you can visit kotex.com and learn all about how to talk to your daughter about getting her period.  There are tons of helpful suggestions, and even have products designed just for a teen’s smaller body.

 

Find additional posts about this topic here:
KotexMom:

  • Month One – What you should know about having the talk.
  • Month Two – Nine things you should discuss with your daughter.
  • Month Three – Getting Ready for the talk with your daughter.
  • Month Four – Will your daughter be prepared at school?

 

Written by Jesica and Heather.

Disclosure:  I wrote this review while participating in a Brand Ambassador Campaign by Mom Central Consulting on behalf of U by Kotex Tween and received products to facilitate my post and a promotional item to thank me for taking the time to participate.

Content provided on this site is for educational purposes only and should not be construed to be medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Content on this site is not a substitute for professional medical or healthcare advice, diagnosis or treatment, and may not be used for such purposes. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical question or condition. Reliance on information presented on this site is at your own risk. This site contains the opinions and views of other users. Given the interactive nature of this site, we cannot endorse, guarantee, or be responsible for the accuracy, efficacy, or veracity of any content generated by our users.