top of page
Explore Topics
From Taboo to TED Talk: How Menstrual Health Is Entering the Mainstream
For a long time, periods were something to hide.Whispered about. Joked about. Ignored. But in recent years, menstrual health has stepped out of the shadows and into the mainstream through documentaries, global campaigns, research, activism, and everyday conversations. What was once taboo is now being discussed on global stages, in classrooms, workplaces, and living rooms. And that shift matters. The Turning Point: Stories That Changed the Conversation One of the most powerful
Starting the Conversation: How Early Is Too Early?
Tips for age-appropriate discussions about bodies and puberty One of the most common questions parents and carers ask is: “When should I start talking about bodies, puberty, and periods?” The short answer? Earlier than you think and in much smaller ways than you imagine. As a youth worker and sexologist , I’ve supported many young people who wish they’d had these conversations earlier, not in one big talk, but through calm, everyday moments that made them feel prepared rathe
Kindness Counts: Supporting Friends Who Get Their Period First (or Last)
Puberty doesn’t happen on a schedule. Some people get their period earlier than their friends. Some get it much later. And some feel stuck in the middle, wondering if their body is “normal.” The truth is: there is no right time to get your first period. What matters most during this time isn’t timing, it’s kindness. Everyone Develops at Their Own Pace Bodies grow and change differently. Genetics, health, stress, nutrition, and environment all play a role in when puberty begi
Indigenous Menstruation: Listening With Respect
Content note: This article discusses menstruation and cultural knowledge. It is written with respect and care. Before we begin, it’s important to be clear and transparent: I am not Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. I do not hold cultural authority, and this blog does not speak for First Nations peoples. What I can do, and what I aim to do here, is to respectfully share what has been written, spoken, and gifted by Aboriginal women, Elders, educators, and researchers, and
How to Talk to Boys About Periods
Helping boys understand and support menstruation with empathy and respect. Periods aren’t just a “girls’ issue.” They’re a normal part of life and when boys understand menstruation, everyone benefits. Talking to boys about periods helps: Reduce stigma and teasing Build empathy and respect Create safer schools and homes Prepare them to be supportive friends, siblings, partners, and allies You don’t need to make it awkward or over-detailed. Simple, honest conversations go a lon
Mindfulness During Your Cycle: A simple self-check-in checklist
Use this checklist anytime you feel emotional, overwhelmed, tired, or just want to reconnect with your body. You don’t need to do everything, one tick is enough . Daily Mindfulness Check-In ☐ Take 3 slow breaths ☐ Ask: How does my body feel right now? ☐ Ask: How am I feeling emotionally? ☐ Remind myself: My feelings are allowed During Your Period ☐ Slow down where I can ☐ Rest without guilt ☐ Use comfort items (heat pack, comfy clothes) ☐ Speak kindly to myself ☐ Reminder: It
How to Create a Period-Positive Home Environment
Creating a period-positive home doesn’t require big talks or perfect language. It’s about small, everyday actions that tell young people: “Your body is normal.You ’re safe to ask questions.You don’t need to feel embarrassed here.” Use this checklist as a gentle guide, and just take what works for your family. Talk About Periods Like They’re Normal (Because They Are) ☐ Use the word period (not code words like “that time”) ☐ Answer questions calmly and honestly ☐ Admit when y
Periods and Homelessness: A Hidden Struggle
Periods are a natural part of life for many people but for those experiencing homelessness, managing menstruation can be a daily source of stress, exclusion, and health risk. In Australia, where homelessness is a complex and growing issue, menstrual health often goes overlooked in both policy and community conversations. This blog explores how period access intersects with homelessness in Australia, why young people are especially vulnerable, and how communities and services
How Research Neglects Women and Why That’s Changing
For generations, women have been told that their pain is “normal,” their symptoms are “stress,” or that they’re “just hormonal.” But what if the problem isn’t women’s bodies - what if it’s the research? Across medicine, health science, and clinical trials, women have historically been underrepresented, overlooked, or misunderstood . The consequences are real, measurable, and still affecting lives today. This blog explores how gender bias in research developed, why it matters,
Journaling Through Your Cycle
Your menstrual cycle isn’t just about bleeding once a month. It’s a rhythm, one that affects your energy, emotions, focus, confidence, and needs. Journaling through your cycle is a simple, powerful way to: Understand your body better Make sense of changing emotions Build self-compassion Feel more in control of your wellbeing There’s no “right” way to do this. You don’t need perfect words, fancy notebooks, or daily entries. All you need is curiosity and permission to listen to
Allyship: How to Help Someone Who Gets Their Period at School
If you ever notice a friend, classmate, or even someone you don’t know having a period accident or feeling panicked about their period, how you respond matters . A kind moment can turn a stressful situation into one where someone feels safe and supported. Here’s how to help, without making things feel awkward. Be Discreet and Kind If you notice something, avoid calling attention to it in front of others. You might quietly say: “Hey, just letting you know that I think you migh
How to Handle Period Accidents at School
Period accidents happen. To almost everyone who menstruates. And while they can feel mortifying in the moment, they are actually a completely normal part of having a body. Let’s talk about how to handle period accidents at school with calm, confidence, and compassion. First Things First: You Are Not Gross or Embarrassing! Periods are not failures! Leaks are not your fault! And your body is not doing anything wrong! Periods can be unpredictable, especially in the first few ye
Healthy Habits & Hygiene
Looking after your body during your period is about self-respect and comfort, not hiding or feeling embarrassed. Good hygiene and healthy habits help you feel fresh, confident, and proud of what your body does every day. Treating your body with kindness is a way of saying, “I deserve to feel good.” Changing Your Products Regularly No matter what you use - pads, tampons, period underwear, or cups - the most important thing is to keep everything clean and change your products r
Bullying, Body Changes & Confidence
Puberty brings big changes in your body, your emotions, and even how you see yourself. Sometimes, these changes can lead to teasing, embarrassment, or self-doubt. Remember, everyone develops at their own pace and in their own way, and there’s nothing to be ashamed of. This stage of life is about learning, growing, and becoming comfortable in your skin. And with the right support, it can be a time of pride, not pressure. Understanding Body Changes During puberty, your body be
Supporting Your Daughter or Someone You Care About
Seeing a young person go through their first period is a meaningful and emotional moment for both of you. As a parent, carer, or mentor, the way you support them can influence how they feel about their body, their confidence, and self-care for years ahead. This is about more than periods. It’s about helping someone you care about feel seen, safe, and supported. Starting the Conversation Talking about periods doesn’t need to be awkward. It’s a natural part of growing up, and y
Mood, Emotions & Mental Health During Your Cycle
Periods aren’t just physical. They can affect how you feel, think, and react to the world. Mood swings, tiredness, irritability, or sadness are all common emotional changes, but they can still be hard to manage. The good news? When you understand what’s happening in your body, you can take steps to support your mental health, find balance, and feel more in control throughout your cycle. What’s Happening in Your Body Hormones like estrogen and progesterone rise and fall thro
Managing Your Period: Products, Comfort & Confidence
Every body is different, and so is every period. Some prefer the familiarity of pads, while others find the freedom of period underwear more appealing, and some find reusable products to be the best fit. There is no single right way to manage your period; choose what feels comfortable, safe, and empowering for you. At New Moon , our shop and kits are shaped by three generations of experience. We blend wisdom, practicality, and modern comfort to help every menstruator confiden
Self-Care During Your Cycle
Your menstrual cycle is more than just your period. It’s a monthly rhythm that guides your body. As your hormones change, they affect how you feel, think, and move. By caring for yourself in each phase, you can gain a deeper understanding of your body, alleviate discomfort, and feel more balanced and confident. Self-care is not selfish. It is a way to show kindness to your body. Understanding Your Cycle A typical cycle lasts about 28 days , but everyone is unique. Your body g
Talking About Periods Without Shame
For generations, people have talked about periods in hushed tones, often feeling embarrassed or keeping the topic private. It doesn’t have to be this way. Open conversations about menstruation help young people understand their bodies, see these experiences as normal, and create a culture of respect, confidence, and care. At New Moon, we believe that knowledge is empowering. Open and honest conversations help break the cycle of shame. Why Talking Matters When we avoid talking
Understanding Periods: What’s Happening in My Body?
Periods are a natural and healthy part of growing up. They show that your body is developing. Your body is preparing for the possibility of having children in the future. It’s normal to have lots of questions, and that’s okay. Understanding what’s happening in your body can help you feel more confident, comfortable, and in control. What Is a Period? A period, or menstruation, is when blood and tissue leave your body through the vagina. This usually happens once a month. The l
bottom of page