Back to school with a body that’s changing? Here’s the real period prep teens (and mums) need

School’s back. Hormones are here. And yes,  your uterus is doing the most.

For Aussie teens, heading back to school is stressful enough. Add a first period, cramps in maths class, or that quiet panic of “Is this even normal?” and suddenly school feels a whole lot bigger.

This isn’t a biology lesson.
It’s the stuff we wish someone had slipped into our pencil case before day one.

Let’s start with the essentials

If your period shows up at school (and at some point, it will), being prepared isn’t about fear; it’s about confidence.

Here’s what we recommend packing:

🩸 Period undies (quiet heroes for backup days)

🔥 A mini heat patch for sneaky cramps

🧡 Hey Sister! Teen tablets – natural support for pain, bloating and anxious energy

🛍️ A discreet pouch with a spare pad/tampon/undies

🍫 A comfort snack,  because mood swings are real and snacks help

Confidence isn’t about hiding your period.
It’s about knowing you’ve got what you need,  even if it shows up uninvited.

What teens told us they wish they knew

We asked. They answered. And honestly? Gold.

Here’s what teens said they wish they’d known before their first period at school:

• It comes when you least expect it

• A hoodie around your waist is an absolute lifesaver

• No one notices (or cares) as much as you think

• Stashing pads in your pencil case = elite planning

• Talking about it doesn’t make it awkward; it makes it normal

Drop your own tips in the comments.
Let’s crowdsource the confidence we all deserved from day one.

Here’s the no‑jargon version:

• Your brain tells your ovaries to release hormones

• Your uterus builds a soft lining, just in case

• No pregnancy? Hormones drop

• The lining breaks down and leaves your body

That’s your period.

And cramps? That’s your uterus contracting to push that lining out.
Annoying? Yes.
Normal? Often.
Something to ignore if it’s severe? Absolutely not.

Hot tip: Hey Sister! Teen tablets were created to support this exact phase,  using 100% plant‑based, anti‑inflammatory ingredients. No nasties. No weird side effects. Just gentle, science‑backed support.

What’s normal vs what needs a check‑in

The first year or two of periods can be unpredictable. That’s normal.
But here’s a simple guide:

Totally normal:

• Irregular cycles (they can take up to 2 years to settle)

• Light or heavy flow

• Mild to moderate cramps

• Tender boobs, mood swings, fatigue

• Periods lasting 2–7 days

Worth checking in with a GP:

• Soaking through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours

• Pain that causes fainting, vomiting, or missing school

• No period by age 15

• Periods that start, then stop for 3+ months

Knowing what’s normal helps teens feel in control.
Knowing when to ask for support? That’s real confidence.

And for the Mums: You Don’t Have to Be a Period Guru

You just have to be her safe space.

You don’t need a TED Talk. Let her lead.
Keep it calm. Build a kit together.
Talk about periods the same way you talk about sleep, school, or snacks.

Normal. No drama. No shame.

Bottom line?
Confidence isn’t about being ready for everything; it’s about knowing that whatever comes, you’re supported.

Pack the pouch. Share the truth bombs.
And show her that this season doesn’t have to be awkward; it can be empowering.