Heading back to school can be an exciting but nerve-racking time. Making friends, finding classrooms, and handling work can bring on some anxiety. The best thing you can do to handle this anxiety is to prepare. Being prepared is also a great way to handle any anxieties surrounding your period when you return to school. Whether it's your first school year with a period or you're a seasoned vet, being prepared can help alleviate your anxieties and be ready to help a friend if they are in need.

What do I need for my period kit?

What you need depends on which products you like to use, your symptoms, and things that make you feel better. As for menstrual products, keep an extra one on hand in your period kit. Whether it's a few pads, tampons, menstrual cups, or even an extra pair of period underwear, it’s good to have more than you think you'll need. You won't have to restock often, you’ll have enough for a friend, and you'll never be in a position when you need something but don't have it.

If you use reusable products like cups, discs, pads, or underwear, be sure to have clean bags available to store used products until you can wash them. 

Keeping pain relievers on the ready is a great idea alongside your menstrual collection products. Whether it's medicines like Midol or Tylenol to alleviate cramps and headaches or hot pads and icy hot to relax muscles, keeping these things on hand can help you get through heavy symptom days. (Be sure to check your school guidelines on taking medicine to school, though!)

Grab whatever other period necessities you need as well. Things like baby wipes and cloths can help keep you fresh until you can take a shower. While snacks can help curb cravings and keep you energized throughout the day. Throwing in an extra pair of underwear or shorts will help you on heavy or unexpected bleeding days. 

Take all your products, get a cute pouch, and keep it in your backpack, purse, locker, dorm, or wherever else you might need them. If you have the means, consider making a few period essentials kits to leave in additional places. If you have the resources, make a few extras for your friends and family. Consider donating to causes that help fight period poverty.

Resources

While we believe that period products should be accessible to everyone, with a period kit, you’ll have your favorite period essentials when needed. If a period kit isn't right for you, or you forgot yours somewhere, some alternatives exist to get a period product in a pinch. 

Here are some ways to get an extra product when you are in need: 

• Ask a friend, family member, or teacher if they have a menstrual product on hand
• Visit the nurse or student health services. They likely have many options to choose from. 
• Check the bathroom for a product vending machine or free products. 

If your school isn't involved, consider referring them to Go Aunt Flow. They provide schools and businesses with free period products to help lessen the period poverty gap.  

Do your best to be prepared for heavy days and lend an extra hand to those who might need it!