Period Power: How to Make a Discreet and Effective Period Kit for School
Navigating your period can be challenging, especially when you’re at school. Unexpected periods, discomfort, and the need for discreet supplies can add stress to an already busy day. But fear not! With a little preparation, you can create a personalized period kit that will empower you to handle your period with confidence and ease. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of creating your own discreet and effective period kit for school, ensuring you’re always prepared.
Why You Need a Period Kit for School
Having a period kit specifically for school offers several advantages:
* **Preparedness:** It ensures you always have necessary supplies readily available, preventing embarrassing situations or the need to rely on others.
* **Discretion:** A thoughtfully assembled kit allows you to manage your period discreetly and comfortably, without drawing unnecessary attention.
* **Peace of Mind:** Knowing you have what you need can reduce anxiety and stress related to your period, allowing you to focus on your studies and social life.
* **Hygiene:** Having your own supplies ensures you maintain good hygiene throughout the day.
* **Personalization:** You can customize your kit with the products that work best for you, catering to your specific needs and flow.
What to Include in Your Period Kit
The contents of your period kit will depend on your individual needs and preferences. However, here’s a comprehensive list of essentials and optional items to consider:
**1. Period Products (Choose What Works Best for You):**
* **Pads:**
* **Variety:** Include a mix of pad sizes (regular, heavy flow, overnight) to accommodate varying levels of flow throughout your period. Some prefer ultra-thin pads for discretion, while others prefer pads with wings for better security.
* **Individually Wrapped:** Opt for individually wrapped pads to maintain hygiene and make them easier to carry discreetly. You can also store them in a small resealable bag for extra protection.
* **Consider Absorbency:** Think about the days of your period. Include heavy-flow pads for the first few days, and lighter ones for the end. Consider also including overnight pads for extra coverage on longer school days or when you may not be able to change your pad as often.
* **Tampons:**
* **Variety:** Include different absorbency levels (light, regular, super) to suit your needs. If you’re new to tampons, start with a smaller size and consider a tampon with an applicator for easier insertion.
* **Individually Wrapped:** Tampons should be individually wrapped for hygiene and discretion. Consider storing them in a small pouch for even more protection.
* **Applicator vs. Non-Applicator:** Decide whether you prefer tampons with plastic or cardboard applicators or non-applicator tampons. Some people find applicators easier to use. Keep a mix to help you decide which works best for you.
* **Menstrual Cup:**
* **If You Use It:** If you prefer a menstrual cup, include a small pouch or container to store it when it’s not in use. This is especially important for those who may need to remove and empty their cup during the school day.
* **Instructions:** If you are using a menstrual cup for the first time or are still learning how to use it, include some basic instructions to refer to in case you need a quick reminder during the day.
* **Period Underwear:**
* **Back-Up:** Period underwear acts as back-up protection in case of leaks. Keep a pair in your bag and you can quickly change into it during the school day if you need to.
* **Different Styles:** Some prefer full brief or boy short styles. Choose whatever style you feel most comfortable in. A dark color is always a good idea.
**2. Pain Relief (If Needed):**
* **Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers:**
* **Ibuprofen or Acetaminophen:** Include a few individually wrapped tablets of your preferred pain reliever for menstrual cramps or headaches. Make sure to follow the dosage instructions on the packaging.
* **Consult with Parents/Guardians:** Ensure you have parental or guardian approval to take over-the-counter medication at school. Consider providing a note from a parent to the school nurse.
* **Individual Packaging:** Opt for blister packs or individual tablets to prevent spills and allow for easy, discreet transport.
* **Heat Packs:**
* **Reusable or Disposable:** Consider a small reusable heat pack or a disposable heat patch for soothing cramps. Many reusable packs can be heated up in a microwave for a minute or two.
* **Discreet Size:** Choose heat packs that are compact and easy to carry in your bag or pouch. Heat patches can be discreetly placed under clothing for more immediate relief.
**3. Hygiene Essentials:**
* **Hand Sanitizer:**
* **Travel Size:** A small travel-sized bottle of hand sanitizer is essential for maintaining good hygiene before and after changing your period products, especially when a sink isn’t readily available. Opt for an alcohol-based sanitizer.
* **Feminine Wipes:**
* **Individually Wrapped:** Individually wrapped feminine wipes can help you feel fresh and clean when changing period products. Choose fragrance-free options to minimize irritation.
* **Consider Biodegradable Wipes:** For an eco-friendly option, look for biodegradable wipes. Remember to never flush feminine wipes down the toilet, always dispose of them in a proper waste bin.
* **Small Trash Bags (Optional but Recommended):**
* **Discreet Disposal:** Small, dark-colored trash bags are handy for discreetly disposing of used period products when a trash can isn’t immediately accessible. You can use small resealable ziplock bags as well, especially those in dark colors.
**4. Comfort and Other Items:**
* **Spare Underwear:**
* **Just in Case:** Pack a spare pair of underwear in a resealable bag in case of leaks. Darker colors are a good idea to minimize visibility.
* **Dark Shorts/Leggings:**
* **In Case of Leaks:** Consider keeping a pair of dark shorts or leggings if you’re worried about period leaks showing on your regular clothes.
* **Lip Balm:**
* **Hydration:** Periods can sometimes cause chapped lips. Include a lip balm or your favorite chapstick to keep your lips hydrated and feeling good.
* **Hair Tie/Band:**
* **Keeping Hair Out of Face:** Keep a few extra hair ties or a headband in your kit. They can be very useful on hot days or when you’re just not in the mood for having your hair get in the way.
* **Small Mirror (Optional):**
* **For a Quick Check:** A small compact mirror can be useful for discreet checks when needed, to ensure that you don’t have any unwanted visible leaks or spots.
* **A Small Treat:**
* **For Comfort:** Include a piece of your favorite dark chocolate or a small piece of candy or something else that you enjoy to help you feel better when cramps or discomfort makes you feel down.
**5. The Kit Itself:**
* **Discreet Pouch or Bag:**
* **Small and Unassuming:** Choose a small, discreet pouch or bag that can easily fit inside your backpack or purse without drawing attention. A makeup bag, small pencil case, or a compact pouch with a zipper are excellent options.
* **Waterproof:** If possible, choose a waterproof or water-resistant material to protect your supplies from accidental spills.
* **Dark Colors:** Select a pouch or bag in a dark or neutral color to keep the contents hidden. Bright colors or patterns can be less discreet.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Create Your Period Kit
Now that you know what to include, here’s a step-by-step guide to assembling your period kit:
**Step 1: Gather Your Supplies**
* **Make a List:** Before you start, make a list of everything you want to include in your period kit. This will make shopping and assembly much easier.
* **Purchase Products:** Go to your local pharmacy or store to purchase period products, pain relievers, hygiene essentials, and any other items on your list. If you’re unsure about what to get, talk to a trusted adult or health professional.
* **Check Expiry Dates:** Ensure that all your products are within their expiry dates to avoid any hygiene issues.
* **Get Organized:** Lay out all the items on a clean surface to begin assembling.
**Step 2: Prepare Your Period Products**
* **Separate Pads/Tampons/Cups:** Take the appropriate number of pads, tampons, or menstrual cups you think you will need for a typical school day or two.
* **Individually Wrap (If Needed):** If your period products are not individually wrapped, you can place a couple of each in small resealable bags.
* **Organize by Type:** Keep pads of different sizes separate and in different compartments, especially if your pouch has separate zippered compartments, so you can easily grab what you need.
* **Instructions for Menstrual Cup:** If you have a menstrual cup, be sure to include a small set of instructions, especially if you’re still new to using one.
**Step 3: Prepare Pain Relief Items**
* **Individually Wrap Pain Relievers:** Place a few individually wrapped tablets of your pain reliever into a small resealable bag or blister pack to protect them from spills or damage.
* **Prepare Heat Pack:** Make sure your heat pack is ready to use and can be heated easily, if that’s an option. Alternatively, store your heat patch in the same resealable bag, or in a separate pouch.
**Step 4: Assemble Hygiene Essentials**
* **Hand Sanitizer:** Ensure that your travel-sized hand sanitizer is securely closed to prevent leaks.
* **Feminine Wipes:** Place a few individually wrapped feminine wipes into your pouch. For eco-friendly options, go with biodegradable wipes.
* **Small Trash Bags:** Place a few small dark colored garbage bags or ziplock bags in an easy to reach area of the pouch to ensure that you have them when you need them.
**Step 5: Pack Your Comfort and Other Items**
* **Spare Underwear:** Place your spare pair of underwear into a small ziplock bag to keep it protected and clean.
* **Extra Clothing:** Fold your extra pair of shorts or leggings and tuck them into the kit.
* **Lip Balm:** Ensure your lip balm or chapstick is readily accessible.
* **Hair Ties:** Pack your hair ties or headband in a small zippered compartment.
* **Optional Items:** Include the small mirror and a small treat in your period kit.
**Step 6: Organize Your Pouch**
* **Compartmentalize:** If your pouch has multiple compartments, use them to organize your items. For example, you can put all your period products in one compartment, pain relievers in another, hygiene items in a third, and comfort items in a fourth.
* **Accessibility:** Place items you will need the most frequently, such as pads or tampons, in an easily accessible pocket so you can quickly and discreetly access them.
* **Keep it Tidy:** Arrange everything so that it’s neat and organized. Keeping it tidy will make it easier for you to find items quickly when needed.
**Step 7: Place the Kit in Your Bag**
* **Discreet Placement:** Place your assembled period kit in an easily accessible yet discreet location in your backpack or purse. A side pocket or a larger compartment where it won’t be easily visible is a good idea.
* **Check Regularly:** Periodically check the contents of your kit to ensure you have enough supplies and that nothing has expired. Restock as needed, typically at the start of each new cycle.
Tips for Using Your Period Kit at School
* **Be Discreet:** When you need to use your kit, do so discreetly, ideally in a bathroom stall or nurse’s office.
* **Don’t Be Shy:** If you need help, don’t be afraid to ask the school nurse or a trusted teacher for assistance. They are there to support you.
* **Practice Makes Perfect:** It can feel intimidating at first, but the more you use your period kit, the more confident you’ll feel managing your period at school.
* **Refill and Restock:** As you use the items in your kit, be sure to refill them at home so that you are prepared for your next period. Set a reminder on your phone, or place a note where you will see it, so you never forget.
* **Communicate With Parents:** Talk to your parents about your period kit, as they may be able to provide further advice and any additional supplies you might need. Make sure you always have parental permission to take over-the-counter medications.
* **Personalize As You Go:** If your kit is not meeting your needs, make adjustments. Add or remove items to ensure you have what you need and are comfortable with using it.
* **Don’t Be Afraid To Share:** If you have a trusted friend who also has their period at school, consider creating kits together and sharing items, in case either of you has forgotten anything.
Conclusion
Creating a personalized period kit for school is a fantastic way to empower yourself and manage your period with confidence and ease. With the right supplies and preparation, you can navigate your period comfortably and discreetly, reducing stress and allowing you to focus on your studies and enjoy your school days. Remember to personalize your kit to suit your needs, and don’t hesitate to adjust it as you learn more about your body and your flow. With a well-stocked period kit, you’ll be ready for anything!