HEALTH

Let's get real: Periods are normal, healthy and *nothing* to be embarrassed about. 

In Go with the Flow, an amaze new graphic novel from Lily Williams and Karen Schneeman, BFFs Abby, Brit, Christine and Sasha are each unique in their own ways.

Abby is passionate about social justice. Brit is smart and sensitive. Christine is quirky and hilarious. And Sasha is worried enough about being the new girl in school at Hazelton High—and her stress only grows when she gets her period for the first time in front of *everyone*. 

Like the Hazelton High besties, everyone's personality—and period—is unique. Lots of girls have questions about their period, from how to use tampons to what those painful cramps actually mean. No need to stress—inspired by Go with the Flow, we've got answers to *all* your most pressing period Qs.

Q: I'm the only one of my friends who hasn't gotten a first period yet. What's wrong with me?! 

A: Nothing! Everyone's body is different—so everyone gets a first period at a different time. In Go with the Flow, Sasha is the last of her friends to get her period, and she's completely unprepared. Learn from her by carrying a pad in your backpack—or counting on amaze friends like Abby, Brit and Christine to help you out of an awkward sitch.

Q: I get awful cramps. Sometimes it's so bad that I have to leave school early! What can I do?

A: Ugh, so sorry that's happening to you. Brit goes through a similar struggle in Go with the Flow when her teachers ask why she's always missing class. She's too embarrassed to say it's because of her period...and she feels trapped in her worries. A visit to your doctor should help you better understand what's going on.

Q: My mom says I'm old enough to use tampons, but TBH they freak me out. Is it OK if I'm not ready?

A: Of course it's OK. From pads to tampons to period underwear, there are *tons* of solutions out there—it's just a matter of finding the one that's right for you. When Sasha tries tampons for the first time, she decides they aren't for her. Meanwhile, Brit prefers them. Know what makes you comfortable and go for it.

Q: Why is it *so* impossible to find a pad or tampon when I'm not at home?

A: That's what's on Abby's mind as she wonders why the Hazelton High vending machines are never stocked with period supplies. And, more to the point, why girls should have to pay for their periods at all. It's kind of crazy that a basic necessity would be so inaccessible. Want to do something about it? Gather your girls, talk to school administrators or even start a blog like Abby to give menstrual equality the attention it's due.

For more ultra-relatable period stories, check out Go with the Flow. Because your body is something to be proud of...period. 

We want to hear from you! Send us your weirdest body questions here (seriously, we'll answer anything!) and it just might get featured.

by Katherine Hammer | 1/14/2020