High-level visual guide for this topic.
Quick answer
You do not need perfect words to say that something does not feel right. If something feels wrong, it is okay to speak up.
Say what feels different
Tell the adult what feels off: strong pain, dizziness, feeling sick, heavy bleeding, bleeding between periods, tiredness or anything else worrying you.
Say when it happens
Explain whether it happens before your period, during it, after it, or at times when you are not expecting bleeding.
Say how it affects your day
Tell someone if symptoms stop school, sleep, walking, sports, social time, eating or concentrating. Symptoms that keep stopping normal life should not be ignored.
Ask what happens next
You can say: “This does not feel normal for me,” “My symptoms are affecting my day,” or “Can we talk to a doctor?” If you feel very unwell, faint, have severe pain or very heavy bleeding, tell an adult as soon as you can.
Words you can use
- Can we talk in private?
- I need some help.
- Can you help me with the next step?
- I think I need a trusted adult.
Ask Luma
You could ask: “What can I say if something feels wrong with my period?”