“What’s your first period story?”
This has become one of our favorite questions to ask Aunt Flow advocates.
First periods mark a significant moment in life—a rite of passage that signals the start of a new chapter. But beyond the physical experience, there’s something deeply powerful about sharing your first period story.
Why are first period stories important?
Breaking the Stigma Around Menstruation
For far too long, periods have been considered a “taboo” subject—something to be whispered about or hidden. Many people grow up feeling ashamed or embarrassed about their bodies because of the way menstruation is treated in society. Sharing first period stories helps to dismantle this stigma.
By talking openly about our experiences, we normalize menstruation. It sends the message that periods aren’t something to be ashamed of but rather a natural and healthy part of life. When people hear stories that resonate with their own experiences, it makes them feel less alone and more empowered to speak up about their bodies.
Creating a Sense of Solidarity
One of the most beautiful things about sharing first period stories is the sense of community it fosters. Everyone’s first period experience is different, but the emotions—whether excitement, fear, or confusion—are often universal. When you hear someone else’s story, it can make you feel connected, as if you’re part of a larger sisterhood.
These stories remind us that menstruation is something that binds us together. They show that even though we may have felt alone or unprepared at the time, we were never truly isolated. Sharing stories builds empathy, allowing us to relate to others’ experiences and offer support to those going through similar situations.
Opening Up Conversations About Body Awareness and Self-Care
First period stories naturally open the door to broader conversations about body awareness, self-care, and health. Talking about menstruation openly encourages people to become more in tune with their bodies and better understand the changes they go through.
These conversations can lead to discussions about menstrual products, hygiene practices or even emotional and mental health during your period. When we share our stories, we not only promote body positivity but also inspire others to take charge of their own well-being.
A few of our favorite first period stories
I was a junior in college and started my period unexpectedly while I was in class. All I had on me was a pad, and when I opened the packaging up in the restroom it made this incredibly loud RIIIIIIIIIP noise. From three stalls down, I heard a little girl demand, “Mommy, why does she have a snack?” I’m still not sure who laughed louder, her mom or me. It was absolutely the tension breaker I needed at the moment.
Jenni G. from Columbus, OH
A few years ago, I was enjoying a day out with one of my close friends, who happened to be a cis man. After a nice lunch, we decided to head back to my house. When I walked into my bedroom, I realized I had just washed and dried the linens for my bed, and when in a rush that day, had forgotten to actually put them on the bed. I apologized for the pile of sheets and blankets and told my friend he could instead sit on a chair I had in my room. As I went to move the linens, I realized my trusty white mattress was visible, boasting glorious period stains and all. “Don’t worry, it’s just old blood that stained”, I assured him. As if in a scene from a horror movie, my friend stood frozen in the doorway. “Blood?” he asked, shockingly. I thought he was going to pass out. “You know, from having my period,” I laughed.
Genevieve J. from Milford, CT
One day I got my period unexpectedly in high school. I was wearing my favorite skirt and did my best to make a tampon out of toilet paper in the bathroom. I was in student government and had a big day setting up for the school dance running all over the school to locate decorations. The next time I went to the bathroom, I realized that my TP tampon had fallen out of my underwear and was nowhere to be found! It still keeps me up at night, I am mortified that it went missing and at the thought of someone else finding it.
Sarah G. from Denver, CO
I was traveling recently and got my period. I wasn’t prepared and had to go grab tampons from a store before my flight. The only tampons I could find came in a pack on 48. I couldn’t take the packaging the way it was through security so I had to shove all 48 individual tampons in my suitcase. TSA ended up having to search my suitcase because I forgot I had a water bottle in there. All 48 tampons came flying out of my suitcase everywhere. I had strangers picking up tampons and handing them to me.
Brittney W. from Altoona, PA
Whether you share your story with a close friend, a family member, or the world at large, you contribute to a growing movement that normalizes periods and celebrates the strength of those who experience them.
