First Period at School: How to Be Ready (and Stress Less)
Keep calm- periods don’t have to crash the school party!
No shame, no drama. Starting your period at school can feel like the WORST-timing ever - but here’s the good news: you’ve got this. With a little prep, some key tools (read: WUKA goodies), and zero panic, your first period at school can be just another step in your journey.
Know what might be coming - and don’t wait till it's too late
It’s common for periods to start any time from nine to 17 years old - the average is around 12, but everyone’s body ticks differently.
Tip: start casually tracking your cycle - whether via an app or old-school calendar. It’s not about predicting down to the hour - it’s about helping you feel a smidge more prepared. Some apps we love include Clue, Luna and Flo.
Build your First-Period School Kit
Channel your inner Big Sis and pack:
- A pair of WUKA Period Pants – comfy, leak-proof, and reusable. They’re the easiest way to get through school days without stressing about changing pads or sneaking tampons up your sleeve. Our Teen Stretch for School Sets are designed to make school days stress-free with no leaks, no smells.
- A spare pair of undies or an extra set of WUKA - because, let’s be honest, accidents happen. Having a backup is just smart. Pop your spares in a changing bag - these clever bags have two pockets, one for changes and one for spare.
- Hand sanitiser or wipes - for when you need a quick freshen-up between classes. We love Wype’s alternative for actual wipes here.
- A little comfort: maybe some chocolate? Dark chocolate isn’t just a comfort snack - it’s got science on its side. The magnesium helps your uterine muscles chill out (bye, cramps), while flavonoids fight inflammation naturally. Plus, the copper and calcium give your body a boost to release endorphins - the feel-good chemicals that ease pain and lift your mood.
✨ Note: ok, so there are disposable options like pads and tampons, and sometimes they’re handy in a pinch. But reusable period pants save money, cut waste, and mean you don’t have to worry about leaks, rustling wrappers, or running out mid-lesson.
Know your backup people
Decide who at school you’d feel safe going to - an understanding teacher, the nurse’s office, a friend. You don’t have to shout it from the rooftops - just know you’ve got an ally when you need them.
Needing to dash to the loo more often when you’re on your period isn’t “being dramatic” - it’s normal. If your school uses toilet passes, ask for one in advance so you don’t have to explain yourself in front of the whole class. A quick chat with a trusted teacher, form tutor, or the school nurse is usually all it takes.
You don’t have to share every detail - just say something like: “I get heavy periods and sometimes need the toilet urgently. Could I have a pass so I don’t have to wait?”
If cramps or fatigue hit hard, it’s okay to tell your teacher you’re not feeling your best and might need a short break, pain relief, or to sit out PE that day. Periods shouldn’t be a secret struggle - and asking for support is the smart, strong thing to do.
Product pointers: what works best during school
Period pants: The ultimate school-day game changer. Period pants look and feel just like your regular undies but with built-in protection against leaks. Perfect for long lessons, busy days, or PE, and because they’re reusable, you don’t need to stress about running out or rustling wrappers in the loo. Try our First Period Starter set, with a free copy of our book, 'Growing Up Powerful: the Periods and Puberty Edition'.
Reusable pads or cups: Great eco-friendly backups if you prefer something you can swap out during the day. Our reusable pads have poppers to secure them onto your underwear, and menstrual cups (if you’re comfortable using them) can last for hours without needing a change.
At a pinch, eco-friendly tampons/ pads: Sometimes a disposable option is handy - just go for organic or biodegradable ones if you can. They’re smaller to carry and discreet, but not as fuss-free or sustainable as period pants.
✨ Bottom line: period pants make school life easier, greener, and way less stressful. The rest? Good for backup, but you’ll find yourself reaching for reusables first. Shop period pants for teens here.
Bathroom plan 101
- Pack enough period supplies for at least two changes - school days drag on, and sneaky leaks don’t follow bell schedules. Teen Stretch for Super Heavy Flow pants can be worn for up to 12 hours, but how often you change is up to - if you feel like a freshen up, then being prepared is key.
- Know your bathroom options: when it's free, how long the lines are, and which stalls feel safest to you.
- Bonus: Have an extra pack of pain relief, if needed - and take it with breakfast, never an empty stomach. Alternatively, try our heat patches for instant, natural relief against period cramps. They're easy to use, and discreet too.
Final thoughts
You’re not just surviving your first period at school - you’re owning it. With your kit ready, a plan in place, and zero shame front and centre, this can be a moment of empowerment. And remember: WUKA’s here no matter what - period.
Related posts
Surviving Your Period at School
How to Deal with Heavy Periods at School
