Managing your period in school can seem daunting, but with awareness and a few small precautions, it’s easier than you think.
Period is a natural and healthy part of many people’s lives, but when they go to school, it can cause minor and major concerns.From the fear of “staining” to finding a bathroom equipped with sanitary products, there are many situations that can cause discomfort. But don’t worry! Talking about it openly and learning about practical solutions is the first step towards experiencing your period at school with greater peace of mind.
Here at IN LUDUS, we believe that learning and well-being go hand in hand. That’s why we want to address some of the most common situations with you, offering useful ideas and suggestions for all students, not only girls (yes, boys can help too!), teachers and parents.
The 5 Common Challenges (and our solutions)
The ‘Mystery’ of the Missing Dustbin: Where do I throw away my used sanitary towel?🗑️
- The Challenge: How many times have you found yourself in a school bathroom without a specific bin for used sanitary products? A small detail that can cause great embarrassment and discomfort.
- The Solution :If there is no dedicated bin, you can wrap the sanitary pad tightly in toilet paper or a tissue and throw it in the regular bin. If it makes you feel more comfortable, you can also bring a small opaque bag with you.
- An idea for everyone: Why not suggest to your school that they install bins with lids in the women’s and unisex bathrooms, perhaps with a discreet label? Small actions can make a big difference!
The ‘Secret’ Supply: What if I don’t have a spare sanitary pad?👛
- The Challenge: Your period can come unexpectedly, or you may run out of supplies. Finding a sanitary product when you need one can become an emergency.
- The Solution : Solidarity is key! You can organise a small “emergency supply” in the classroom or in a discreet place (e.g. a kit in the teachers’ bathroom or infirmary, if available). A box with sanitary pads, panty liners and perhaps some spare underwear, made available to those who need it, can reduce unnecessary anxiety. Teachers and students can contribute.
- Important fact: Did you know that “period poverty” (difficulty accessing safe hygiene products) is also a reality in developed countries? According to the report “Menstruation: A Matter of Gender, Dignity and Public Health” by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) – link here – ensuring access to menstrual products at school is essential for girls’ well-being and education.
Stained clothes! La Paura più Grande: And if they notice that I am stained?🩸
- The Challenge:The fear of staining clothes and others noticing is one of the biggest concerns for those who have their period, especially at school.
- The Solution:
- Planning ahead is key: Always carry a change of underwear and a dark garment (e.g., a dark sweatshirt or T-shirt) to tie around your waist or wear if necessary
- Support each other: We encourage a supportive school environment. Discussing it as a group and normalising the experience can help reduce shame. If you notice that a friend has stained her clothes, discreetly let her know and offer to help her. Understanding and empathy are powerful!
- Period is natural thing: Always remember that menstruation is a physiological process. There is nothing to be ashamed of. Raising awareness of this concept is essential to breaking down taboos and stigma.
Sanitary Pad in Sight: The embarrassment of going to the bathroom. 🎒
- The Challenge: Carrying a sanitary pad in your hand or pocket to the bathroom may seem like something to hide, causing discomfort.
- The Solution:
- Normalization: Once again, talking about and normalizing the need to change sanitary pads helps take the pressure off. Everyone goes to the bathroom for physiological needs, and this is no different.
- The Discreet “Beauty Case”: If you prefer discretion, a small case, a cute clutch, or a handbag can be the perfect solution for carrying your hygiene products without feeling embarrassed. Even men can carry a backpack to hide the fact that they are going to the bathroom (perhaps a friend has asked them for a small favor).
Sports and Period: Discomfort during physical activity..🏃♀️➡️🤸♀️
- The Challenge:Physical education class can become a nightmare if you are afraid that your sanitary pad will move or feel bulky..
- The Solution:
- Strategic Clothing: Wearing tight-fitting shorts under sweatpants can provide greater security and hold the pad in place, reducing movement and worry.
- Alternatives: If possible and if you feel comfortable, tampons or menstrual cups can offer greater freedom of movement and security during sports activities. Talk to your parents or a trusted adult to see if they are right for you.
- Role of Teachers: Physical education or motor skills teachers can do their part by allowing students to wear clothing that makes them feel more comfortable and secure during their period..
Dealing with menstruation at school shouldn’t be a burden. With the right information, support from classmates, and understanding from adults, we can create more inclusive and peaceful school environments. Remember, your well-being is the priority!
Do you have any other tips to share? Let us know in the comments!