Hi, my school has an open room toilet that you just walk in to and it has no door and we have to share it with the boys. There is a few cubicles for girls and a few for boys but this makes me feel really uncomfortable because if I want to change my pad or something I’m always worried that a boy is in the cubicle next to me and I find that embarrassing. Also it’s hard because people just stand in there and chat so I don’t like going to the toilet when that happens either. Thanks!
Hey, this toilet setup can make a private moment feel very public 💛
Feeling embarrassed about changing a pad with someone in the next cubicle or people chatting nearby makes sense, but there’s no shame in having a period or opening a pad.
You could try going during lesson time with permission, or just before or after the busiest part of break when fewer people may be there.
If the rustling worries you, you could unwrap your pad while flushing the toilet or cough over the sound.
You could also keep pads in a small pouch, pocket or sleeve, or take your whole bag with you.
Try not to make one pad last all day just to avoid the toilets, as changing your period product regularly matters for your comfort and hygiene 🫶
Because these toilets aren’t giving you enough privacy, you could tell a trusted teacher, the school nurse, or a parent or trusted adult.
They may be able to arrange a toilet pass or access to a quieter, more private toilet, perhaps near reception or the school nurse.
If talking feels too difficult, you could write a note explaining what’s making you uncomfortable.
You deserve to feel comfortable at school, especially during your period.
Hope this helps 🌷
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