First Period Kit: What is it and Why You Need One

You might think of tampons and pads when it comes to period products, but have you heard of first-period kits? They're a thing now and we wish we had them when we were younger. It's like having a trusty period sidekick that always has your back...or shall we say your front.

So, who needs a period kit? Anyone who menstruates. After all, since these kits keep all your period essentials (pads for heavy flow, liners, wipes, and more) in one place, you can use them while commuting, traveling, etc. And if your daughter is starting out on her period journey, these kits are also a great period mentor — they’ll easily guide her through all the ups and downs of her cycle.

We spoke to two experts about what to include in a first-period kit and three pre-made kits to order so you're all set.

What is a first-period kit?

Period kits are like a period survival kit (or a period pack) for anyone who menstruates. They have everything you need to get through your cycle, whether that's pads or period underwear, according to Carrie E. Levine, a certified nurse midwife, an Institute for Functional Medicine certified practitioner, and the founder of the Whole Woman Health Clinic.

"A period kit is helpful to have on hand, so you're never caught by an unexpected period," she tells Today's Parent. "Supplies can include tampons, pads, and/or a diva cup, pain relievers like Advil, a pair of underwear if you wear it, and even a change of pants."

What do you put in a first-period kit?

A period kit can be purchased online, but it's possible to create one yourself. Dr. Maureen Baldwin, MD, MPH, OB/GYN, recommends adding a variety of items. Include pads, tampons, wipes, period underwear, extra underpants, a scented bag for soiled underpants, and a pair of black leggings. And consider adding a laminated card that says, 'I need to go to the bathroom NOW because my period is leaking through my pants' in your kit.

When should I make my daughter a kit?

Dr. Baldwin suggests making one before she starts her period. That way, she'll have everything she needs when the time comes. "I recommend age eight, BEFORE the period starts, which is usually about six to 12 months after thelarche (breast bud development) and following a big growth spurt," she says.

The best first-period kits

Be Prepared Period. First Period Kit To-go!

Don't want your daughter to be caught off guard when her first period arrives? This all-in-one kit includes pads, liners, carrying pouches, and feminine wipes. It's affordable and priced under $20, plus all pads and liners are made from organic cotton, so you won't have to worry about irritation or harsh chemicals.

RedDrop Period Kit for Tweens

This first-period kit is perfect for tweens and teens! It comes with 72 items, including pads that are the ideal size for young girls. And they're made without any harsh chemicals, fragrances, or bleach so they're gentle on their skin. Reviewers also say that there's a surprise gift included and a 'hall pass' to make bathroom breaks (aka pad changes) easier.

"Perfect size and comes with great little extras," writes verified Amazon customer Casey Toler. "Little pouch for keeping it in their backpack at school and an amazing little card called a hall pass. Nice little discreet way to let the teacher know what’s going on without announcing it to everyone.

UrlifeMy First Period Sampler Kit Blue Gift Box

This period kit is like a poo-poo platter, but instead of appetizers, it has a box full of different products for a girl's first period! It has everything from liners to pads to wipes to a carry-on bag, all from brands you trust like Kotex, Always, and Scensibles. It may be more expensive than the other kits on our list, but plenty of Amazon reviewers say it's the perfect first-period kit for your daughter.

"This gives you samples of different brands so you can tell your daughter about some of the different products," writes verified Amazon shopper lee2029. "It even comes with a little zip-up bag to keep in a locker or book bag. I wish they had this when I was a kid."

Experts

• Carrie E. Levine, a certified nurse midwife, an Institute for Functional Medicine certified practitioner, and the founder of the Whole Woman Health Clinic
• Dr. Maureen Baldwin, MD, MPH, OB/GYN, and member of the Women & Girls+ with Blood Disorders Learning Action Network (WGBD LAN)