It’s not just your teen feeling overwhelmed.
You’re allowed to feel it too. Between the group chats, the hormone swings, and the TikTok trends that make zero sense, parenting a teen already feels like decoding another language.
Throw periods into the mix?
That’s a whole new level of what-the-hell-do-I-even-say-here. You’re not alone. And you’re not doing it wrong. Things have changed. A lot. And you’re allowed to feel a little lost while your teen figures it out too.
Periods aren’t what they used to be
Remember when a pad felt like a literal mattress? When you whispered to the teacher that you needed the nurse’s office - and prayed no one asked why? Yeah. That’s not the world our teens are bleeding in.
Today’s teens are starting earlier. Studies such as this one have found that globally, girls are experiencing early onset of puberty due to a variety of potential reasons. Researchers believe high body mass index and rise in obesity could be to blame, and noted that those who do start their period early are more likely to struggle with an irregular cycle and missed periods for longer too.
Their flows are often heavier (hello, environment and stress) - and heavy periods can have an impact on so much in a young person’s life. This 2024 study found that “heavy or prolonged bleeding and menstrual pain were associated with lower school attendance and educational attainment.” Researchers reported that 36% of the girls who took part suffered with heavy periods, leading to 1.7 missed days of school each year. Lower GCSE grades were also reported.
And today’s teens are under pressure too - from school, sport, socials, everything. Stress can also have an impact on the menstrual cycle too. This study looked at the impact of academic stress on the menstrual cycle, and found that 91% of the study group were experiencing menstrual problems, such as irregular cycles, abnormal bleeding and PMS. The study concluded that stress was behind it all.
And what about period products? That’s changed too. There’s a whole shelf dedicated to choices that didn’t even exist when you were a teen.
- Applicator or no?
- Plastic or cardboard?
- Organic cotton?
-
Reusable? Disposable?
No wonder they’re overwhelmed. And no wonder you are too.
Your teen might not say this, but…
Even the most chill, eye-rolly teen has period worries they won’t always tell you about:
- Leaking at school = total nightmare
- Having PE during your period = pure dread
- Pads shifting around = not it
- Changing in public toilets = next-level awkward
It’s not about being dramatic. It’s about being human. Managing periods is hard. But it doesn’t have to be this hard.
Why period pants are the quiet helper teens didn’t know they needed
WUKA period pants don’t shout. They don’t rustle in the bathroom stall. They don’t shift halfway through a lesson or leak mid-netball. They’re just... there. Quietly doing their job.
For your teen, it’s comfort and confidence. For you, it’s one less thing to worry about. No panic about spare pads in their school bag. No awkward chats about whether they remembered to change their tampon. Just underwear they can trust - and forget about (in a good way).
They can wear them all day. Wash, dry, repeat. Simple. Secure. Sorted.
The Mum Bit: What they actually need from you
Here’s the thing. Your teen might act like they’ve got it all under control (and maybe they do). But even the most independent teens need a little backup.
Here’s what that looks like:
✔ A calm conversation - no drama, no pressure, just open vibes
✔ A stocked-up bathroom drawer - because scrambling mid-cramp isn’t fun
✔ A bit of space - let them choose what works for them
✔ Reassurance - because however they’re feeling? It’s totally normal
You don’t need to have all the answers. You’re already doing so much just by showing up.
The bottom line? Periods have changed. But your instincts haven’t.
You’re doing great.
And your teen?
They’ll be okay too - with a little confidence, a lot of kindness, and maybe some period pants that actually get it.
Shop WUKA period pants for teens
From first bleeds to full-on flow days, WUKA’s got teen periods covered - literally. Our Teen Stretch™ range is designed to grow with changing bodies, offering comfort that moves, stretches, and supports through every stage.
Choose from Heavy to Super Heavy Flow options in core colours like black and navy, or brighten their drawer with our limited edition shades - Pinkest Pink, Lime Punch, and Orange Sun - made to match their mood, not just their outfit.
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Periods, Puberty & Power: Helping Teens Feel at Home in Their Bodies