The arrival of first menstruation is an important moment in a young girl's life, often accompanied by a series of questions and uncertainties. Of course, this moment can happen anywhere… including at school! As a parent, preparing your child for this stage can be done through a discussion about the topic, but also with tools suited for first periods. Among these tools, Marie Fil offers a menstrual survival kit for school that just needs to be slipped into your daughter's backpack!
Menstrual hygiene management at school: the importance of preparing for first periods
It cannot be said often enough: a teenager who is prepared for her first period will be much more at ease when she experiences this inevitable event. As parents (often the mother), opening up the discussion about this sometimes taboo topic will make your daughter more comfortable asking questions. Also, since mom won’t be present at school, the teen needs to feel equipped enough to handle the situation herself with confidence. This will help her avoid stress, misunderstanding, and possibly even feeling ashamed to ask for help in an intimate situation. If the topic has never been addressed at home before, the prospect of first menstruation can become very negative and intimidating.
Why choose eco-responsible menstrual hygiene at school?
Reusable sanitary pads have many advantages over disposable options. Not only are they environmentally friendly, but they are also gentler on the skin, without irritating chemicals like disposable menstrual products. They are also economical in the long run, as they can be reused for several years. By introducing your teenage daughter to eco-friendly products, it is possible to quickly accustom her to using healthy menstrual protection. For practicality, the washable sanitary pad is very easy to use with their regular underwear. There is also no packaging to manage. For the first period, especially in a school setting, it is best to avoid offering tampons and/or menstrual cups that require more adjustment, handling and are less comfortable for a young teenager. Not to mention all the negative impacts and risks of using a tampon.
Menstrual survival kit for school
For the start of the school year, Marie Fil offers a survival kit for first periods at school. Just slip it into your teen's backpack and add a pair of comfortable underwear. It prioritizes the use of sanitary pads because they are easy to use and comfortable.
Prepare the teen to use her school menstrual survival kit
It is important to talk openly about periods before your daughter starts menstruating. By explaining what is in the menstrual survival kit, you can already begin the conversation about using menstrual products. You can explain how to fold and store washable pads without getting them dirty in the waterproof pouch. Also, make sure the teen will feel comfortable using them with confidence when the time comes. By keeping this menstrual survival kit in her backpack, your teen will have quick access to effective menstrual protection when her first periods occur.
How can you improve menstrual hygiene management at your school?
To improve menstrual hygiene management in a school, it is crucial to put in place infrastructure and resources adapted to students’ needs. This includes providing free menstrual products in the restrooms, as well as discreet bins in each stall for respectful disposal of waste. Schools can also organize educational workshops to raise awareness among all students about menstruation, demystifying this often-taboo subject and fostering an inclusive environment. By offering training to school staff, they can provide compassionate support and be prepared to respond to students’ specific needs.
The importance of menstrual hygiene education at school… and at home!
Although menstrual hygiene education is a topic increasingly discussed at school, the introduction to the subject should always take place at home. Why? Because that is where children are generally more comfortable asking questions and learning.
Marie is an eco-responsible shop from Quebec specializing in reusable menstrual products. Visit us in person or check out our online store!