Girls start their periods between the ages of 8 to 16.This can happen at an inconvenient time.If your period starts while you are in class, you will want to remain calm and request assistance from your teacher.You will be back in control if you follow a clear plan of action.
Step 1: Request to use the bathroom.
Wait until there is a break in the class discussion or a transition between activities.When you approach the teacher's desk, raise your hand and ask to use the restroom.If you suspect that your period is starting, you should do this as soon as possible.Some schools limit bathroom breaks, so you may need to say that you can't wait.You could say "Excuse me, I know that we're going over important material right now, but I need to go to the restroom and it's urgent."
Step 2: If it's necessary, get specific.
If your teacher won't let you take a bathroom break, give more details.You can approach your teacher's desk or wait until the end of class to keep the conversation private.They should do this anyway, but it might give you extra peace of mind to state it directly.
Step 3: If you have stains, cover them up.
If you have a sweater or jacket, wrap it around your waist.If you don't, your teacher might let you borrow one.Just because you started your period doesn't mean you will stain your clothes.
Step 4: Relax from time to time.
As you walk to the restroom, take a number of deep breaths.Take a quick back stretch in the restroom.There is a smile.It is normal for women to have periods.
Step 5: This is not new.
The adults around you have dealt with periods before.They will not feel weird or embarrassed talking about your period with you.
Step 6: Get some supplies.
There is a vending machine on the restroom wall.You can ask a friend for something.To make a make-shift pad, wrap toilet paper around your hand and place it in your underwear.You should use at least ten layers.
Step 7: Visit the nurse.
Go to his or her office and ask for a sanitary pad.They will give you one if they have one.If you need a few minutes to calm down and collect yourself before facing the world again, ask the nurse, "Would it be okay if I stayed here for a bit before returning?"
Step 8: Talk to another teacher.
If your first teacher wasn't helpful enough, approach a new one.
Step 9: A period kit is required.
Change of underwear, panty liners, and pads are included in a small make-up bag.You should be able to avoid emergencies in the future.
Step 10: It's okay to dress comfortably.
If you're still worried about blood spots, wear dark clothes.If you feel bloated, avoid wearing clothes that are too small.
Step 11: There will be a bit of awkwardness.
It is likely that you will feel a bit embarrassed around any male teachers.They will not mention what happened and may have already forgotten.You are only one part of the process in the classroom and you should remind yourself of that.
Step 12: Stay polite.
Thank anyone who helped you.If you let them know how much they helped, they may be more likely to help others in the future.
Step 13: Stay calm, stay calm.
You don't need to go through the steps if you have a plan in place.You won't be the last person to start their period this way.It is possible to mentally repeat, "Calm down."Relax.
Step 14: Tell your teacher that you're having a period.
The teacher is here to help.Don't approach their desk until there is a pause in class.You could say, "This is my first period."What should I do?They will let you know if you want to visit the nurse or the restroom.
Step 15: If you aren't comfortable talking to your teacher, talk to the school nurse.
If you want to visit the nurse, you have to ask your teacher for a pass.She will give you supplies and advice if you let her know that this is your first period.Let the nurse know if you are hurting."My stomach has been throbbing for the past hour or so."
Step 16: If you don't feel like you can talk to an adult at school, call a parent.
Your parent can bring supplies to you, such as pads, and give you instructions on what to do in this situation.They can remind you that what you are experiencing is normal.
Step 17: Ask a friend who has already experienced her period what to do.
It is possible to talk with a trusted peer in a private place.She can give you advice on what your next steps should be.You could say, "I'm not sure if I can participate in gym class because I've started my first period today."What do you do?