Period Health

Periods… they’re a natural process that all girls and women go through once they reach puberty, that’s half the population, and yet, we are still reluctant to talk about them.

Don’t be ashamed or embarrassed if you need to ask for a pad or tampon when you need one, lots of schools and public toilets now have them readily available, as will friends, colleagues and teachers. And if you are struggling to afford period products, we’ve got you covered, check out Bag for Flo (click here or scroll down) who have local pick-up points where you can access free products, including Teen Clinic Daventry.

“If you start your period at school but you feel to uncomfortable telling your teacher, write it on a piece of paper and give it to them instead”

“Take a nice warm bath when your cramps are bad or use a hot water bottle”

If you have a blood disorder, periods can have added complications, the video by COR2ED is a great explainer.

Take control and track your cycle, you might find that it helps you feel more in control of your emotions and the rollercoaster that hormones can cause, just by being aware of where you are in your cycle. It’s also great in helping you to understand and figure out what’s 'normal' for your body. My Cycle is a free app to download, but a diary or your phone calendar will work just as well.

Period poverty affects many women and girls. Bag for Flo is helping to tackle it by giving away period products for free to those in need. There are some local pick up points and these are growing in number, Teen Clinic Daventry is one of them. Check their website for other pick up places and more information.

When it comes to sanitary wear or period products, there are lots of different options, it’s no longer just tampons and towels but period pants, re-usable pads and moon-cups. It takes trial and error to find our what works for you. These two sites have great advice and products to purchase especially for teens.