Kids Health Question of the Week

by: Mary L. Gavin, MD
July 1, 2009

 

 

 

(Q) I feel embarrassed when I have my period at school. When I’m in the bathroom, I think everyone can hear me opening the pad to put it on. What should I do?

(A) It’s common to feel self-conscious about your period at first, but lots of girls are making those crinkling sounds in the bathroom. When things are new you notice them more but it’s unlikely anyone else is listening intently to whatever you’re doing on the other side of the bathroom stall. So do what you need to do and get to class. And on the bright side, lots of other sounds going on in the bathroom are more embarrassing than the rustle of your pad wrapper!

(Q) My doctor is a woman and I feel weird about it, especially if I have to be naked. What should I do?

(A) Little kids often run around naked and think nothing of it. But as you get older, you get more aware of your body and have an increased need for privacy. So it can feel strange to take off your clothes at the doctor’s office. But your doctor does need to examine you to make sure you are healthy.

To make you more comfortable, you can ask that your mom or dad come into the exam room with you. You can also ask for a gown – a thin robe that ties. Most doctor offices have these available for patients.

Source: Kids Health

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