Feeling embarrassed about periods is really common: in a UK survey, almost half of girls said their period made them feel embarrassed. There's nothing wrong with you. This awkwardness was taught to us over years, and it can fade bit by bit.
Where does the shame come from?
Every month, 1.8 billion people have a period, and yet periods still get hidden. In some places they're still called "unclean", and the first pad advert with red liquid instead of blue only came out in 2017. We grew up with whispers and pads hidden up sleeves, so the awkwardness feels natural, even though it was learned.
What if I leak in public?
Deal with the practical bit first: tie a jumper or hoodie around your waist and find a pad. Rinse your clothes in cold water as soon as you can, and keep spare underwear in your bag for next time. It happens to almost everyone at least once, so you're in good company.
How do I feel less embarrassed?
Start with a small step you can manage: tell a friend "I'm on my period", or carry a pad to the toilet in your hand. At the till, pads get scanned just like a loaf of bread, and the cashier sees them every day. It gets easier each time, and you still don't have to tell everyone.
Why does shame get in the way of health?
Shame can mean keeping quiet about pain and putting off seeing a doctor. Plan International found that fear of leaking or being teased even keeps some girls off school. When periods can be talked about calmly, it's easier to tell an adult in time, "It hurts so much I can't get up."
What if someone teases me?
You're far from the only one: in the UK, 1 in 5 girls aged 14 to 21 have been teased or bullied about their periods. You can calmly say "Yep, I'm on my period. So what?" and walk away, because people who tease want a reaction.
If it keeps happening, that's bullying. Tell an adult you trust: a parent, a teacher or the school counsellor. Adults can often stop bullying without the bully ever finding out who told.
Common questions
Is it OK that I keep it private?
Yes, that's your own business, and you don't have to tell everyone. What matters is whether you hide it because you want to or because you're scared. If fear stops you asking for a pad or mentioning pain, talk it over with someone you trust.
How do I tell my dad I need pads?
Keep it short: "Dad, could you get me these pads, please?" plus a photo of the pack. That way he won't be left guessing in the shop. If that feels too awkward, ask another adult.
How do I get out of PE when it hurts?
Go up to your teacher before the lesson and say quietly, "I'm on my period and it really hurts, can I take it easy today?" Gentle movement like walking can ease period pain, but you don't have to run through bad pain.
I was teased before and it still stings
Hurtful moments really can stay with you for years. Try telling someone who'll listen without laughing, or tell me. If the memories get in the way of daily life, a therapist can help, and you don't have to deal with it alone.
In short
- Keep a spare pad and underwear in your bag
- Agree with a friend to help each other out
- If the teasing keeps happening, tell an adult
Source: Plan International UK: What is period stigma
Educational content; it does not replace professional medical advice.