Talking about the monthly cycle isn’t always easy, so a few genius women out there decided to step up to the plate and create period kits for girls, tweens and teens. Young people aged 19 and under can get free period products at educational institutions under a government scheme. So if you can’t afford them, or for other reasons including if you’ve forgotten to bring any with you, or unexpectedly come onto your period, you still have options. Most period kits consists of: Pads, tampons (which you can use according to your preference or need) hand wipes, an informative booklet, zipper pouch and an extra pair of undies (just in case). Many of the pads and tampons in the period kits are designed especially for tweens and teens and may be shorter and/or narrower than other regular products for women. When creating their own period kits or “Survival Kits”, some girls add their own personal items such as perfume, EOS lipbalm , hair ties, acne gel, feminine wipes , and Midol or Tylenol to remedy headaches or cramps. PMS – premenstrual syndrome – is the term used to describe the emotional and physical symptoms that happen before or during the period. The NHS advises that symptoms can include:

Moxie Organics overnight pads (8pk) Just like the daytime pads, but extra long and with a double-set of wings to help keep them in place while you sleep. Our first period kit for tweens doesn't come with menstrual products like tampons or plastic filled disposable pads. Instead we've included a selection of our reusable period protection which is the modern way to period! Plus you can add our reusable makeup remover pads which can be reused over and over again. This article was co-authored by Rebecca Levy-Gantt, MPT, DO and by wikiHow staff writer, Megaera Lorenz, PhD. Dr. Rebecca Levy-Gantt is a board certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist running a private practice based in Napa, California. Dr. Levy-Gantt specializes in menopause, peri-menopause and hormonal management, including bio-Identical and compounded hormone treatments and alternative treatments. She is also a Nationally Certified Menopause Practitioner and is on the national listing of physicians who specialize in menopausal management. She received a Masters of Physical Therapy from Boston University and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) from the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Do disposable sanitary pads rub you up the wrong way? Here's an alternative...

First thing is: don’t worry. "It is very easy to clean them," advises Dr Ameen. "If you find that your periods are heavy or causing flooding or clots it may be advisable to have a period kit including a change of underwear or clothes on hand when you’re on your period or your period is due." Preparing for your first period is key to having less worries when it does arrive. Here is our first period starter kit so you can relax and know what to expect. A girl’s first period can be a mysterious and scary thing. Although a totally natural part of life, it’s not always easy to deal with or discuss with your daughter, nor does it ever get much easier when you get older. Especially those who have complications with Aunt Flo every month. For some girls and women, it can be very debilitating. Almost every woman has her story – ranging from the funny to inconvenient to mildly embarrassing – which revolves around period mishaps, school, events and vacations. These problems can be more amplified when teen and tween girls face it at a tender age. But periods shouldn’t be seen as “troublesome”, especially if girls are informed and prepared. It’s really all about the way you look at it, too. Take a few calming breaths to help the muscles in the vagina to relax and avoid trying it for the first time when you’re in a rush. After your first period, you may begin to experience PMS, but this will differ for everyone. Some people don't notice it, while others may experience symptoms like abdominal cramps, bloating, mood changes and headaches before or during their periods.

The most important thing is not to get stressed or anxious," says Dr Ameen. "If you feel comfortable, talk to someone you trust like a parent, teacher or maybe a friend who has already started their periods. It’s a completely natural process." A lot less than you might think! "While it may look like a lot of blood, girls normally only lose a couple of tablespoons throughout the duration of the period," explains Dr Ameen. "A person’s first few periods are often very light and can vary in colour from pink or red to brown," says Sarah. From pads to tampons and period pants, here are eight of our go-tos for a first period kit or starter kit to help you or a loved one feel more period confident. We don't giveaway free teens starter kits because it's wasteful and not eco friendly at all. Instead of free period products or sanitary pads, our reusable starter kit has everything you need, not only for periods, but for a more eco friendly lifestyle. Which doesn't cost the earth! If the usual signs and symptoms of your period are quite severe and extreme, then it’s important to seek further advice from your GP," says Dr Ameen. "It’s important to keep a diary of symptoms over six to twelve months especially if you’re experiencing the below":

Reusable Sanitary Pads which don't cost the earth

Reusable pads and pants are widely available and can be easily washed at home and reused for many years. They are a great, more environmentally friendly option. Alternatively, you can visit charities like Freedom4Girls to donate and help those living in period poverty access free products. Having your period can take some getting used to, soon it will become second nature it will become! What's more, your menstrual cycle is a pretty amazing process and can help you learn more about yourself.