Telling your mum, dad or someone you trust

Many girls feel shy about mentioning a first period. That is completely understandable. In some families this topic isn't talked about openly, so getting started can feel hard. But things become much easier once someone is helping you.

• Your mum
• Your dad
• An older sister, aunt or grandmother
• A school nurse or female teacher
• A doctor

The best person is whoever you feel comfortable with.

You don't need a long talk. Pick one of these:

• Mum, my period has started and I need pads.
• I need some help, I've started bleeding.
• There's something I want to tell you. Can we talk alone?

If saying it face to face feels too hard, send a message or write a note. That is fine too. It can also be easier to talk during a walk or a car ride, because you aren't looking at each other.

Some girls don't live with their mum, or need to tell their dad. There is nothing embarrassing about that. Dads know about periods too and want to help their daughters. Just say: Dad, I need pads for my period. You can go to the pharmacy or shop together, or ask a female relative to help.

Adults can get flustered or embarrassed too, or say very little. That doesn't mean you did anything wrong. You still deserve help. If the first person doesn't help, go to someone else.