Embarking on the journey of menstruation can be an overwhelming experience for teenagers and their parents. With the myriad of period care products available, it's important to guide teenagers in making informed choices. One fantastic trend that we're loving is the increasing number of teens embracing reusable period care option such as period underwear and menstrual cups. Keep reading to find out our pro tips to help teens feel confident and prepared for their first period, as well as the benefits of reusable products over single-use.
- Personal Choice and Preparation: Every teenager is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to period care. It ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, as parents or caregivers, we can assist in preparing teenagers for this milestone. Consider introducing them to reusable options such as period underwear and reusable pads before their first period. Allowing them to touch and try these products will alleviate any apprehension. Encourage them to keep a pair of period undies or a pad in their school bag to ease anxiety if their first period unexpectedly arrives at school.
- Building Confidence with Period Underwear: Regularly wearing period underwear before menstruation begins can boost your teenager's confidence. Period underwear looks and feels like regular underwear, providing comfort and security. Once they become accustomed to using period underwear, they'll feel more at ease managing their period when the time comes. High-quality period panties and reusable pads offer exceptional absorbency, equivalent to up to five regular pads, minimising the need for frequent changes throughout the day.
- Exploring Internal Period Care: Teenagers can also explore internal period care options such as menstrual cups and discs. These products are suitable for teenagers and can be particularly appealing to young athletes or swimmers. Menstrual cups and discs have a high capacity and often don't require changing during school hours. While mastering their use may take some practice, using a small amount of water-based lube or trying insertion in the shower can be helpful. Providing a small hand mirror to observe their anatomy during insertion can also aid in the learning process.
- The Environmental Impact: One fascinating fact about reusable period care options is their significant environmental impact. A teenager who starts using a menstrual cup or menstrual disc early on in their period life will only need a maximum of eight throughout their entire period journey. In comparison, using single-use tampons and pads would require an astonishing 11,000 to 15,000 products. By choosing reusable options, teenagers can actively contribute to reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
As teenagers embark on their period journey, it's crucial to support and empower them with the knowledge of various period care options. Reusable products like period underwear, reusable pads, menstrual cups, and discs provide comfort, confidence, and environmental benefits. By embracing these options, teenagers can make informed choices and take control of their menstrual experience. Let's encourage the next generation to care for their bodies and the planet by embracing reusable period care options from the start.