What to Pack in Your Daughter’s Period Kit

The essentials to have on hand

Managing periods on the go can feel daunting. Your daughter may be concerned about accessing a toilet in a new place, finding period products when she’s forgotten hers, or sourcing painkillers for cramps. Here’s just a handful of examples from worried teens: 

“I think ill have my period for my residential. I also mught not be able to change my products as much as i need to. Helllpppp!!!”

“i just got my first period today im really nervous how do i handle it in school? as in how often do i change it and what do i do if a teacher won’t let me go” 

“what do i do when i leak blood in school”

At younger ages, these considerations can feel overwhelming, especially as irregular periods within the first two years of menstruation are very common. In other words, there’s more chances of unexpectedly starting. 

One solution is a "my first period" kit. You and your daughter can create this together, tailoring the products to her preferences and needs. Periods can be uncontrollable, but a first period kit is a small, but significant, way for your daughter to feel more confident and in control each month. 

Things to include in a period starter kit:

• Her chosen period product: whatever product your daughter wants to use, make sure she’s got a few of them in her first period kit. That way, she won’t have to resort to toilet paper and will always have something if a friend needs one too.
• Spare underwear/tights: leaks are really common, so it can be useful to have a spare pair of underwear or tights rolled up in the first period kit in case of emergencies. It’ll help your daughter to feel much more comfortable.
• Small bag/pouch: including an extra pouch (especially if it’s washable) can be really useful for your daughter to put in any stained underwear or reusable pads. It keeps them separate from her other things and means you can pop it straight into the wash when she gets home.
• Tissues: having a packet of tissues is great for keeping clean and also for your daughter to use as an emergency pad if she doesn’t have access to one.
• Wipes: there are lots of small packets of wipes you can buy from the supermarket to include in a period kit. They’re great for keeping clean and feeling fresh. Make sure these are specifically designed for intimate use and are free of harsh chemicals which could cause irritation.
• Painkillers (if over 16): periods can be painful for many people, so if your daughter is over 16, suggest carrying some painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen in her period kit. It can make a big difference if her cramps are bothering her. 
• Spare pair of leggings: alongside extra underwear, it can help to put a pair of leggings or trousers rolled up small in your daughter’s kit. If she experiences leaking, she can change into these spare bottoms and feel much more comfortable and less self-conscious 

Equipped with this kit, your daughter can feel empowered to manage her periods. This proactive approach to menstruation simplifies and normalises a too often taboo subject.