I remember the first time I got my period. It was my first year in college in a boarding school, and I had just started wearing training bras. I was excited to grow up and become a woman, but I had little idea what to expect being that my mom never educated me on anything about reproductive heath although I had learnt a little stuff from the classroom in primary school plus second hand experience from school mates and cousin yunno.
It was a hot day in October, and I was wearing my favorite pink shorts in the dormitory. I went to use the bathroom and I saw the red stain on my underwear. I panicked and didn't know what to do. I tried to clean it up with toilet paper, but it only made things worse.
I had a caring school mum ( it was an all girls college too) though and so I ran to her reporting the incidence. I never owned a pad😂 and so she gave me some and taught me how to fix it on my undies. I felt embarrassed and uncomfortable, but I also felt a sense of pride that I was now a "real" woman.
Over the years, my period has become a regular part of my life but if we could receive monthly SMS concerning our period, I think that would make much more sense that having to physically undergo everything that comes with menstruation 😤😂
I've experienced cramps, bloating, and mood swings, but I've also learned to appreciate the monthly reminder of my body's natural cycles. I've become more comfortable talking about menstruation with my friends and family, and I've even become an advocate for menstrual health and access to menstrual products for all women.
While my first period was a scary and confusing experience, it taught me a lot about myself and my body. It's a reminder that we all have the power to embrace our natural cycles and take control of our health and wellbeing.