Lighter Day. Darker Color.

Kate E  •  Washington  •  31

 

It was a Saturday morning, December 4, 1999 (I know, crazy that I remember the date, right??) and I woke up already feeling pretty grown up because I was going to take the PSAT that day at the local university. I went to the bathroom, wiped and noticed the toilet paper had a dark brown streak on it! What?? I figured out it was my period ... but ... it was brown?? Weird!! I had a surge of excitement and pride as I pulled up my pajama pants and strolled to the kitchen to eat breakfast.

Kate E First Period Story

I proudly announced to my mom that I had gotten my period and she immediately asked me, "Did you put in a pad? I left them under your bathroom sink, remember?" As I ate my cereal, I matter-of-factly responded, "Nah, I don't think I need it. It's a lighter day." LIKE I KNEW.

I finished my Cheerios, went back to the bathroom and to my dismay, there was blood ALL over my pajamas. Later during the break of the PSATs, I went to the bathroom and fumbled with my pads and was trying to figure out how to replace it without making a mess, and I remember a drop of blood falling onto the bathroom floor and I was just a clumsy mess. Didn't feel so proud after that.

Kate E First Period Stories

Didn't Get It From My Mama

Kathy  •  Michigan  •  58

 

It was around 1972, I was riding a bike when I felt the cramps and then the wetness in my panties. I went home and panicked in the bathroom. I stuffed toilet paper into my crotch then found my mom. She handed me a belt and huge sanitary napkin and said “put this on.” I was clueless and she was not generous with information or compassion. I was crying and said “what is this?” She said, “it’s your period!.”

Kathy First Period Story

I asked if everyone had it. She said eventually. I asked “even boys?” She said of course not. It was years before I understood fully what was happening to my body. It was a health class in high school actually. 

Not all mothers are kind and compassionate. I have three daughters and I spent time leading up to their first cycle talking about it, preparing them. When it started, I gifted them a self care box that included their favorite things and feminine supplies. I gave them what I didn’t get.

Kathy First Period Stories

Missing First Period

Chelsea D  •  Texas  •  27

 

I started my period when I was 14, freshman year of high school. I was fortunate to start right before I went to school for the day!

Chelsea D First Period Story

My mom showed me how to use a tampon and I got to miss 1st period! 🔴Pun intended?

Chelsea D First Period Stories