Coming on your period when you’re really not expecting it can be annoying, inconvenient and even embarrassing at times. If you don’t have any supplies in your handbag and you’re wearing a really inappropriate outfit, getting your period can be a bit of a nightmare!
For me, perhaps the least convenient time that I ever came on my period was when I was 14 or 15 years old at a fate, miles from anywhere; I was basically in the middle of a field. If that wasn’t bad enough I was also wearing a mini skirt and tiny panties when Mother Nature decided to pay me a visit.
All that I was able to find was one of those portable, chemical toilets and had no other option but to fill my panties with tissue paper and hope for the best. In spite of this inconvenient disruption, I still went on three different fairground rides and had a fantastic day.
Getting your period unexpectedly happens to us all at one time or another, so here are some tips on how to avoid getting caught out and what to do if you are unlucky;
Download the app – Period View!
Seriously, Period View will help you to keep track of your menstrual cycle so you know when you’re due on and can be thusly prepared. When you’re given a few days warning you won’t be caught out unexpectedly and can avoid any stress or embarrassment.
Carry supplies in your handbag a few days before you’re due on.
When you know the red week is approaching, it’s a great idea to carry supplies with you at all times. Your handbag period arsenal should include tampons, pads, wet wipes, pain killers, maybe even a change of panties and an emergency bar of chocolate – I guess it depends how big your handbag is! It’s probably a good idea to avoid wearing light colored pants too.
Don’t be afraid to ask another woman.
You may not have packed your handbag full of period essentials but if you’re lucky you may find another woman who has. It may be pretty embarrassing to ask, especially if you’re asking a stranger, but she’d want you to help her out if she was in the same situation.
Search for vending machines.
If you’re having trouble finding a store which sells feminine hygiene products, remember that some vending machines dispense pads and tampons in women’s bathrooms. So the next time you’re caught out unexpectedly, don’t forget to check the restrooms of the nearest mall as you may find just what you need.
Tissue paper really can help.
It may be far from ideal but when you have no other option, copious amounts of tissue paper can really help. Just fold and fold and fold again until you’ve created a thick layer for absorption, then place it in the crotch of your panties. Honestly this even works with a thong and skirt (I should know!)
Try not to move around too much.
Running, dancing or being overly active is going to cause more blood to leak out, and faster, so if at all possible avoid moving around too much and sit down when you can. Clenching the muscles in your pelvic floor can also help to prevent leakage, especially if you do your kegal exercises on a regular basis!
So now you know what to do if it really isn’t your lucky day, but if you keep an eye on our app then you’ll have a much clearer idea of when Aunt Flo is planning a visit.
If you have any tips for dealing with an unexpected period, or any funny, embarrassing stories of your own then we’d love for you to share!
Good luck ladies 😉
About This Blogger: Charlotte Poole
Charlotte is a 24 year old British girl who enjoys healthy eating, keeping fit and exploring sexuality. After graduating university Charlotte backpacked through Southeast Asia and found a new home in Bangkok where she currently works as a freelance writer.