What do I do if my period starts?

Take it one step at a time.

  • Notice what happened — Check calmly if you can.
  • Use your period product — If you have one with you.
  • Tell a trusted adult — Keep your words simple.
  • Clean up and change — If you need to.
  • Make a note — Write down the day.

You are not in trouble. It is okay to ask for help.

Quick answer

If your period starts, take it one step at a time: notice what happened, use your period product, tell a trusted adult, clean up if needed, and make a note of the day.

Step 1: Pause and check

If you notice blood in your underwear or when you wipe, try not to panic. Go to the toilet if you can and check whether it looks like period blood.

Step 2: Use a period product

If you have one, use a period product. Period products include pads, period pants, tampons, menstrual cups and menstrual discs.

If you are new to periods, pads or period pants can often feel easiest to start with because they are worn outside the body. If you do not have a product yet, folded toilet paper can help for a short time until you get one.

Step 3: Tell someone

Tell a trusted adult, such as a parent, carer, school nurse, teacher or another adult who can help you get what you need.

  • “I think my period started.”
  • “Can I have a period product?”

Step 4: Clean up and change

If blood leaked onto your underwear or clothes, change when you can. If you are at school or away from home, ask for help. You are not the first person this has happened to.

Step 5: Make a note

If you can, note the date in a diary, calendar or phone. That can help you understand your cycle later on.

It is okay if you feel...

  • surprised
  • embarrassed
  • unsure what to do next
  • happy that you were prepared

All of those feelings are normal.

When should I ask for medical help?

  • Bleeding is very heavy.
  • You have severe pain.
  • You feel faint or very unwell.
  • You are worried something is not right.

Ask Luma

You could ask: “My first period started at school. What should I do?” or “How do I tell a teacher I need help?”

Final reassurance

You are not in trouble. Starting your period is a normal body change. The main thing is to get comfortable, get support and go one step at a time.