What Should Moms Pack Before a Daughter's Period Shows Up?

 

They often seem to go from being a moody teenager to standing outside the toilet looking panicked. Most mothers say they didn’t expect it to happen so soon. On average girls will get their period around the age of twelve however it can be as young as eight or as old as fifteen. Putting together a first period kit for your daughter is an amazing act of kindness. It can take you an afternoon to put together, it will save you a last minute panic at school and will show her this is a normal thing!

A Small Pouch

A small zipped pouch is ideal. It shouldn’t look like a period product. A pencil case or bargain makeup bag will work. It’s important that your daughter chooses one. If she has chosen the pouch herself she will be much more likely to use it. If you have given her a big speech about it, she will leave it at the bottom of the cupboard until next summer. If you can, have two. One to put in her rucksack and another to keep at home or in her locker.

Pads (Tampons Can Wait!)

Most girls will start with pads. These are ideal. A few thin and soft pads. 1-2 regular pads and 1 long pad overnight. You don’t want to over buy. Her first period will be light and strange. Sometimes it might be a little brown spotting. She may not bleed again for 2 months. The pads should be organic. The area is very sensitive and most mainstream pads will have a scent, bleach and plastic lining. Many mothers will choose to use unbleached organic cotton. This isn’t a trend because she will be wearing them for hours every month for years!

Extras

• A spare pair of underwear. Best to get dark ones!

• A few unscented wipes.

• A couple of small bags to put her used pads in once wrapped up. School toilets don’t always have bins in the cubicles.

• A small hot water bottle/heat patch.

• Pain relief if ok with your doctor.

• A chocolate bar.

• A short note inside the pouch is the best thing you can do. Something like ‘You’ve got this! Call me if you need anything’.

A Conversation

This is really just for show. Have a conversation with her. Tell her what the blood will look like. It could be red or brown, both are completely normal. She may feel some cramping. This can be annoying but shouldn’t stop her doing anything. Teach her to change her pad every 4-6 hours or when she feels it is full. Tell her what to do if she has to go to the toilet whilst at school. Who to ask, where the nurse is. Keep it short and simple. She will have questions, lots of them. The next day, the day after and probably at the worst time. Let her.

Her Period May Be Unusual

Many girls will have unusual periods in the first couple of years. This is usually just their body getting used to things. However sometimes it can be a sign of PCOS. Long periods between, heavy bleeding, bad acne and excess hair growth can indicate PCOS. Only a doctor can tell. If you think she may have PCOS, get her checked. This won’t be treated by products. However, having organic period products for PCOS can help. As she may be wearing pads for longer or have a heavy surprise. The sensitive skin will benefit from the soft and clean materials. It’s a good idea to have a few extra in her kit.

Soft Products Without Breaking The Bank

Organic food can be expensive. Start off by buying one pack. Let her try them and see how her skin reacts. Look for certified organic cotton. No scent, no chlorine bleaching and a breathable top layer. Check the label! Sometimes products will say natural on the front but mean very little. If she wants to use a regular brand at a sleepover or friends don’t feel guilty. Having a bad week with the wrong pad isn’t the end of the world. You’re trying to build a habit.

A Personal Touch

Some girls like to celebrate, others just want to hide under a rock. Know your daughter. A small diary to track her dates will help. Or use a simple app. Knowing when to expect things will help reduce anxiety. Let her restock her kit. Give her a little money. This will make her feel like it’s hers. If she rolls her eyes at everything, that’s fine. She’ll still use the pouch. They always do!

Conclusion

There is no need to make it perfect. Just ensure she never feels surprised or alone. Use gentle products. A few extras and a calm conversation. If her period becomes more complicated, having organic period products for PCOS and a great doctor will make things much easier. Come visit us at www.missdiagnosed.co or email tamara@missdiagnosed.co.

FAQs

What should go in my daughter's first period kit?

A small pouch with a few thin pads. A spare pair of underwear, unscented wipes, disposal bags and a short note. A heat patch/pain relief if approved by your doctor.

When should I give my daughter a period kit?

Earlier than you think! 8-10 is a great age to start having conversations. Having a kit ready by 9/10 means she is covered.

Are organic period products for PCOS better?

No they won’t treat PCOS however many people with irregular/heavy periods find they are kinder to sensitive skin. As they are scent free and unbleached.

Should my daughter use tampons?

Usually it’s easier to start with pads. Once she is comfortable with her body and period they can be used.

When should I take my daughter to the doctors?

If she has heavy bleeding, her periods are extremely irregular after a couple of years, severe pain or you notice symptoms such as constant acne and excess hair growth.