" Ask for pads and tampons to be made available in bathrooms, so that girls don't need to take time off school because they don't have them on hand. Ask that all bathrooms have facilities for disposing of used pads and tampons. And most importantly, ask that students are allowed one break per class so that they can go if they suddenly get their period. Though there's no shame in having anyone see your sanitary supplies, you can find places to stash them if you're concerned about that. For one thing, you can put them in your purse, but if you can't carry handbags in school, you can cleverly place them in your pencil case, tuck a pad into the pocket of your folder or binder, or even place a tampon down into your boots if you have no better options. If you think of some "hiding spots" in advance then you won't be so nervous when that time of the month comes. If you have a locker, use it. This will also be an easy place for you to keep your supplies all year long instead of having to bring them when the time of the month comes. It's unlikely that you will leak through your underwear and pants, but being prepared with an extra pair of underwear and pants or leggings in the event of an emergency will help you avoid worry. Just knowing that they are there if you need them will keep you from worrying about having your period or having a leak. You can also bring a sweater or sweatshirt to wrap around your waist, just in case. If you have your period or are experiencing PMS, then you may want to add some extra chocolate to your diet. Studies show that chocolate alleviates some of the symptoms of PMS, and besides, chocolate is delicious. Having a little chocolate can make you feel more stable emotionally, in addition to giving you a tasty treat. If you tend to suffer from menstrual pain such as cramps, bloating, nausea, or any of the other symptoms that may accompany your period, then you can carry around some medicine just in case. (Just make sure your school allows it.) You can use Tylenol, Advil, Midol, or another form of over-the-counter medication that works best for you. You don't have to take it when you get your period, but having it on hand will help you feel better if you're feeling less-than-great. Make sure to talk to your parents and a doctor before you take any medication to make sure it's right for you. Your period may not be quite regular yet, but it can help to start tracking it so you know just about when to expect it. Not only will this keep you from being surprised in school, but it can also lead you to take precautions that can keep you from having an emergency, such as wearing a pantyliner the week you're expecting to get your period, just in case you get it a bit early. If you haven't started your period yet prepare for the first time, in case it's at school. The average menstrual cycle is 28 days long, but can range from 21 to 45 days in teenagers and young adults. Mark the day your period starts on a personal calendar, or use a mobile app that helps you track your period, such as Clue, Period Tracker Lite, My Calendar, or Monthly Cycles. Menstruation often causes side effects such as cramping, bloating, acne breakouts, and breast tenderness. If you're experiencing one or more of these symptoms than usual, your period may be on its way. When you notice symptoms like these, it's a good time to double-check your supplies. Make sure your "emergency" pads or tampons are in their proper places, and restock your supply of pads/tampons and pain relievers at home. Wear dark clothing when you expect your period draws near. That way, if you do get any unexpected bleeding, the color will help mask it.

Summary:
Launch a campaign for making your school "period friendly. Find good places to stash your sanitary supplies. Pack an extra pair of underwear and pants just to feel safe. Pack a chocolate candy bar. Have some medicine ready to alleviate menstrual pain. Know when to expect your period. Familiarize yourself with menstruation warning signs.