ooia community survey
We wanted to know more about the first period experience. How does the first period feel today - and how was it before? Does perception change with generations? Who or what educates and how? We asked our community and received more than 4,500 answers.
If you're one of the teen's confidants, our insights might give you some helpful thoughts on conversations about periods and all that entails. You can find even more tips in our article The first period: advice for parents.
According to our survey, the time of the first period is now before the age of 13 more often than it was 20, 30 or 40 years ago.
6% of those under the age of 18 even stated "younger than 10" as the age of the first period. We therefore recommend that parents and persons of trust prepare themselves emotionally and in terms of content in good time.
A maximum of 3 answers could be chosen for this question. "Insecurity", "shame" and "fear" are the most popular answers. Looking at the different age groups of the participants shows that shame and insecurity in connection with the first period are felt less today than in the past - unfortunately fear and sadness are increasing. What can we do about it?
Mothers are by far the number one priority here. Exciting! After all, how have the answers changed over the decades? Whether it's mothers or fathers, other family members, friends or teachers - personal contacts play an increasingly greater role in education today than they used to.
Not surprising: books and magazines are on the decline and are being replaced by the internet, social media and influencers.
It's nice to see that the percentage of people who chose "I couldn't talk to anyone about this" is getting smaller and smaller.
We received more than 3,000 responses from our community to this question and categorized the top 5 responses. If you're a teen confidant too, maybe they'll help you have a conversation about their period!
Because we want insecurity, shame and fear to be replaced by security, curiosity and trust.
By far, this topic was mentioned the most. What products are there? How do I use tampons and pads correctly? And what alternatives are there, such as period underwear?
Will I be in pain? What physical side effects can I expect? To what extent is pain normal? What diseases are there, e.g. endometriosis?
What does PMS mean for me and my performance? What symptoms can I expect? What is it about mood swings? And how can I do something good for myself during my period?
What happens to me and my body in the individual cycle phases? And why? When can I get pregnant - and what contraceptive options do I have?
Many participants would have wished for the following in particular: "The period is something completely normal and you don't need to be ashamed of it. You will learn to deal with the period and it will be easier. You can ask me anything and I will be there for you."
