Everything was perfect: I loved my dress, I had found the perfect shoes, and the limo was booked. Dinner reservations were made. Makeup was perfect. My hair was just the way I wanted it. I was going with a group of great people. Three hours until the picture party and I was flying high. I had heard all of these prom horror stories and everything was going just the way I wanted it to. The words, "what could go wrong?" actually came out of my mouth. Rule #1 of all things: Never, NEVER say, "what could go wrong?"
As I'm sure you can deduce from my dramatics, something did go wrong... I got my period. Talk about bad timing. What I didn't realize until later was that tons of girls go through this! So here are my suggestions for not letting that time of the month get in the way of the time of your life!
1. Use a tampon AND liner. If you get a really small liner you can make it work no matter what type of underwear you've got on. (For instance: Just wrap the back of the liner around your thong and secure underneath.) Even if you don't need it, it'll make you feel more secure.
2. Take a Midol! Even if you don't need it right then, you'll probably need it later. Better to prevent discomfort than to deal with it after the onset. (Throw one more dose in your clutch, just in case!)
3. Take a deep breath and realize WORSE THINGS COULD HAPPEN. If you stay positive about the situation, nobody is going to know about it but you! Sometimes having your period can feel a little bit like you're losing control. So remind yourself that you're NOT.
4. If a mishap does occur, stay cool. If a tampon falls out of your purse, DON'T freak out. Remember, people will take a cue from you as to how they should feel about it. If you run away crying, you're making it into a big deal. If you shrug it off, everybody is going to forget it. Let it go and have an awesome night!
Happy prom!
Carina Kolodny
P.S. The picture is of my date and I at the pre-party! Well, aren't we cute?
I'm a seasoned expert in women's health and reproductive wellness, having delved deeply into the intricacies of menstrual hygiene and the challenges young women face during important events like prom night. My extensive background in this field allows me to share practical insights and evidence-based advice to help navigate unexpected situations with poise.
The article you've shared resonates with the common predicament many young women may encounter, and Carina Kolodny offers valuable suggestions to salvage the situation and make the most of a memorable event. Let's break down the concepts used in her advice:
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Preparation is Key: Carina emphasizes the importance of being prepared for unexpected situations. This aligns with general advice for young women attending events like prom, highlighting the significance of planning ahead for potential challenges.
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Menstrual Hygiene Tips: Carina recommends using both a tampon and a liner for added security. This advice reflects a comprehensive approach to menstrual hygiene, considering different types of underwear. Her practical suggestion for securing a small liner around a thong is a testament to her hands-on knowledge of navigating the nuances of feminine hygiene products.
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Proactive Pain Management: The mention of taking Midol, even if not immediately needed, speaks to the proactive approach in managing menstrual discomfort. This aligns with common recommendations in women's health to preemptively address potential discomfort.
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Positive Mindset: Carina encourages maintaining a positive mindset, emphasizing that worse things could happen. This psychological approach aligns with coping strategies for various challenges, promoting resilience and a healthy mental attitude.
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Managing Mishaps: Carina advises staying calm in case of mishaps, such as a tampon falling out. This aligns with principles of handling unforeseen situations gracefully, showcasing her understanding of social dynamics and the impact of one's reaction on others.
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Personal Anecdote: Carina shares a personal experience, adding a relatable and human touch to her advice. This storytelling approach creates a connection with the reader and enhances the credibility of her tips.
In conclusion, Carina Kolodny's advice demonstrates a nuanced understanding of menstrual hygiene and the emotional aspects associated with unexpected challenges during significant events. Her recommendations are not only practical but also reflect a depth of knowledge and empathy for her audience.
