Whether you are waiting for your first period or have been menstruating for years, finding blood in your pants at school is often inconvenient, especially if you are not prepared. Not to mention this can also cause embarrassment (although it shouldn’t!!). Know that it’s OK – This has happened to many before you and will continue to happen to many after. 

Here are some tips on dealing with an unexpected period at school, or in a public setting. 

Don’t panic. What's happened has happened and the most important thing now is to ensure you are comfortable to take on the rest of the day and a big part of that is making sure your blood is collected and cleaned up so onto the next step... 

Get supplies that you are comfortable using. Schools are usually stocked with menstrual products in their bathroom or in the nurse's office. If this is your first period and you are unsure what product to get, have a quiet chat to the nurse or your favourite female teacher who will no doubt go above and beyond to ensure you get what you need. If you don’t feel comfortable speaking about what is happening (no need to feel bad about your body doing its thing), “stomach problems” are a good go to thing to mention. There are plenty of collection methods you can use. The two you are most likely to encounter are pads and tampons. Pads are the simplest to use and are most often available in school nurses’ offices—all you need to do is place one with the sticky side on your underwear and you’re good to go. Tampons are also frequently available. There is a bit of a learning curve involved with tampons, because they need to be inserted into your vagina. But many people prefer them, so if you feel comfortable, speak to your guardian at home and give them a shot once you understand the do’s and don'ts of insertion. Regardless of which type of period product you decide to go with, a friend, the school nurse, or your parent will be able to demonstrate how to use it correctly.  

Clean up your clothes. If you notice period stains on your clothing, rinse them with cold water and soap as soon as you can. Blood is a hard substance to clean off many textiles so quick action gives you better chances of getting the stain out completely in the washing machine later. However, if the garment remains stained, don’t worry too much, many people have period panties which makes them the perfect pair for future periods. 

Be prepared for next time. Now that you know what to expect, stock up on supplies in your backpack. Include pads or tampons and a fresh pair of underwear just incase. It is always handy to carry a "period kit" in your backpack or Mums car. Maybe even include a small chocolate that you will forget about and then you have a pick me up in these situations ;-) 

Look out for your friends. If this has happened to you, chances are it has happened to the friends in your circle that are of similar age. Offer a pad or tampon to those in need and try and normalise the discussion of periods and menstrual health in your group. If you see blood on someone else's pants or skirts, let them know discretely about the situation and be there to help them get cleaned up whether that be lend them a pair of pants you may have spare or do the running to the nurse's office while they hide in the bathroom.  

Bonus tip – get to know when your period is due so you can avoid unexpected surprises.