Menstrual
Hygiene
Objectives
•Understand what a period is
•Learn why periods happen
•Know what to expect
•Learn how to manage periods
•Talk about how to take care of ourselves
during periods
Puberty is a period when the body
begins to develop and change
during the transition into adulthood.
During puberty our bodies go
through many physical and
emotional changes. On average,
puberty happens between the age
of 8 to 18, and changes occur
gradually. Not all bodies experience
changes of the same kind, or at the
same time.
CHANGES THAT OCCUR IN
THE FEMALE BODY
• Acne (pimples) • Hips get wider
• Breasts develop • Menstruation (periods) begins
• Grow taller • Pubic hair grows on genitals
• Hair gets oily • Skin gets oily
• Hair grows in armpits • Sweat glands develop
• Hair grows on face • Vaginal discharge
What is periods/ menses?
A period is a release of blood from a girl's uterus, out through
her vagina.
Your period can last between 2 and 7 days, but it will usually
last for about 5 days. The bleeding tends to be heaviest in the
first 2 days.
Happens around every 28 days
Most girls get their first period when they're around 12. But
sometimes it comes a few years earlier or later. Every girl's
body has its own schedule.
When your period is at its heaviest, the blood will be red. On
lighter days, it may be pink or brown.
You'll lose about 20 to 90ml of blood during your
What Happens During a
Period?
The uterus (a small, pear-shaped organ in your lower
belly) prepares a soft, blood-rich lining every month.
This lining builds up to support the body’s monthly
cycle.
During periods, it breaks down naturally.
The lining flows out of the body slowly through the
vagina.
This flow is called a menstrual period or just a period.
A period usually lasts 3–7 days and happens about once a
month.
This is a natural, healthy process and shows that the
body is growing and developing well.
True or False
1. Periods mean you are sick
2. Periods are a part of growing up.
3. Periods means you are not normal.
4. Periods are dirty and should be kept a
secret.
5. All girls start their periods at the
same age.
6. You can’t bathe during your period.
* Pre- Menstrual Syndrome
Changes in your body before your period can cause physical and
emotional changes.
This is known as PMS (premenstrual syndrome) or PMT (premenstrual
tension).
There are many possible symptoms of PMS, but typical symptoms
include:
feeling bloated
breast tenderness
mood swings
feeling irritable
spotty skin
Headaches
Cramps and pain in the lower abdomen
Lower back pain
Wanting to eat more snacks or chocolates
These symptoms usually improve when your period starts and
disappear a few days afterwards.
Menstrual products
How to put on a pad correctly?
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What to keep in your school bag?
2–3 Sanitary Pads: Always have extras in case you
need to change or help a friend.
Tissues or Wet Wipes: To help clean up if needed.
Small Hand Towel or Napkin: To feel fresh and dry.
Mini Hand Sanitizer: For hygiene when soap and
water aren’t nearby.
A Chocolate or Snack Bar: To feel better and boost
your mood!
Healthy habits during periods
Track and monitor the menstrual cycle on the calendar or use a mobile application designed for
this purpose.
Change sanitary pads every 4-8 hours at most, regardless of blood flow.
Pads come in many sizes, so you can choose one that suits the heaviness or lightness of the
menstrual cycle.
Wash hands before and after using the bathroom and before using a menstrual product.
Dispose of sanitary pads properly, by wrapping them in a tissue or other material and then
throwing them in the trash.
Wear light, breathable clothing (such as cotton underwear) as tight fabrics can trap moisture
and heat; This allows germs to spread.
Maintaining the cleanliness of the genital area by washing it daily.
Drink enough fluids.
Self care tips during periods
1. Rest and Relax:
•It’s okay to take it easy if you're feeling tired.
•Try to get enough sleep.
2. Eat Nutritious Food:
•Eat fruits, vegetables, and light meals.
•Avoid too much junk food, but a piece of chocolate is okay!
3. Drink Plenty of Water:
•Staying hydrated helps you feel better.
4. Warm Comfort:
•Use a hot water bag on your tummy to ease cramps.
5. Gentle Movement:
•Stretching or a short walk can help reduce discomfort.
6. Talk About It:
•Share how you feel with someone you trust—your mom, older sister, or teacher.
Thank you!
Presented by:
Nehla Firoz
School Counselor
IISD
