How to Support Teens in After-School Spaces When It Comes to Their Periods

Paid partnership with Thinx.

Based on the findings from the 2025 State of the Period, Thinx found that teens need period support during after-school activities. From worrying about leaks to trying to power through cramps and fatigue during sports, teens struggle to feel confident and cared for outside of the classroom.  

Periods shouldn’t sideline anyone or be a barrier for participation. Here’s how coaches, educators, and after-school mentors can help support teens with periods in every space — from the basketball court to the art studio. 

1. start the season by establishing a normalized, judgment-free zone 

Stigma is one of the biggest challenges teens face when it comes to menstruation. As a coach or mentor, you can shift that. Kick off the season by normalizing conversations about periods the same way you would about hydration or stretching, as a natural and essential part of taking care of your body. During the first practice or orientation, use matter-of-fact language to acknowledge that periods are a normal part of life — because they are! Even something like, “If you ever need a break for cramps or to change a product, just let me know,” can go a long way to show support and build trust. 

2. be flexible with participation 

Period symptoms can look and feel different for everyone — from mild cramps to debilitating pain or fatigue. When a teen mentions they’re not feeling 100%, respond with empathy rather than frustration. Be flexible. Offer alternative participation options like modifying drills, focusing on stretching, or helping in another way that keeps them engaged without overexertion. 

That kind of support sends a powerful message: their well-being matters just as much as their performance. When teens feel supported during their period, they’re more likely to show up, stay active, and keep building confidence — on and off their period. 

3. suggest period products designed for teens 

Many teens worry about leaking, especially on the court or field. Encourage your athletes to explore their period care options and find products that work best for them and their bodies. For athletics, I recommend leakproof underwear, like Thinx Teens™, which are designed for teens and provide up to 12 hours of protection, comfort and confidence. 

4. empower teens with education 

Many young people don’t fully understand how menstruation can affect energy levels, hydration, and performance. Creating space for authentic, open conversations or sharing resources about how the body changes during the menstrual cycle can help teens better understand their own needs. 

A great starting point for menstrual education is PERIOD.’s Athletes and Periods Curriculum. It offers an in-depth look at the phases of the menstrual cycle and their impact on student athletes.  

5. encourage open communication 

Finally, remind teens that it’s okay to speak up. Whether they need a break, time to go to the restroom, or help after a leak, meet them with support — not shame. Set the tone. Your support builds trust and reduces stigma for everyone involved. 

Supporting teens during after-school activities goes beyond cheering from the sidelines, it means ensuring they feel seen, supported, and comfortable, no matter the time of the month. That’s why Thinx is stepping in — providing reusable period underwear to youth teams and clubs nationwide. Thinx is giving girls’ teams the chance to win Thinx Teens™ products. The goal? To help teens feel confident, comfortable, and leak-free so they can focus on the game — not their period. You can learn more and enter the Thinx Leakproof MVP Giveaway here. 

Because when teens feel confident and secure, they can focus on what really matters: playing hard, learning, and showing up as their best selves. 

Fran Haydanek, D.O., also known as Dr. Fran, is a board-certified OBGYN with 7+ years of experience, and currently practices in Rochester, New York. Besides treating patients in real life, Dr. Fran also provides education about obstetrics and gynecology online to combat misinformation on social media and empower her audiences with fact-based knowledge about their healthcare.

As an experienced OBGYN, popular online educator, and mom to three, Dr. Fran is passionate about providing accessible and reliable information about women's health. Her mission is to provide a platform for women to access the latest obstetrics and gynecology information so they can make informed decisions about their healthcare.