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Ask Aunty Hilda
Puberty Hub

This section is dedicated to everything about changing bodies, free from sexual content.

Submit questions, topics of discussion and issues about puberty and growing up to your supportive team of Aunties and keep an eye on this column for a response :)

Please remember this is not a helpline. We only answer questions once per week. Not all questions will be published. If you need more urgent support, please contact:

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or contact Marcelle, mnaderturner@shcs.school.nz for a school appointment

I think i might have depression, is there any way I can get tested or get help

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I haven't had my period yet, and I'm around that age that I should, but I have this stuff in my undies and I'm not sure what it is. It's white and sticky and has a bad odour and I don't know how to stop it. Can you help me?

Thanks for your great question - Normal vaginal discharge is usually white or clear, can be thin or a bit sticky, and might change during the month once periods start. It usually doesn’t smell bad and doesn’t make your vulva itchy, sore, or uncomfortable. It’s your body’s way of cleaning and protecting itself, and everyone’s normal looks a bit different. It’s only something to check out if it’s green, yellow, grey, frothy, strongly smelly, or painful, or if it’s making you really uncomfortable. So what you’re seeing might be worth getting checked since it has a bad smell and you haven’t had your period yet, but a health professional can tell you exactly what’s going on and how to treat it if needed. All the best :) Love Aunty Hilda xox

I have not got my period yet, but I'm feeling scared to tell my parents when I do. I am also scared about it coming without warning, like at school or somewhere public. Could you help me find a way to deal with it when it happens?

Thanks for your great question - It's totally normal to feel these things. Waiting for your period, knowing it's going to come, but not really knowing what to expect can be really anxiety provoking! But rest assured, we have all been there (almost all!) and your body is doing exactly what it is supposed to do. Your parents know about it too - your Mum has been through this, just like you are and she's probably forgotten how she once felt. I wonder if you could tell her how you're feeling about it - like that you're a bit worried. That could really help you feel more relaxed having a conversation about it now, before it happens. Being prepared is easy if it's at school - all the period products in the bathrooms can be used - the pads are probably the best way to start. If you are somewhere else and don't have any products, then some toilet paper folded into layers in your undies will do the trick until you get home! Most of the time your first period is very light, so you don't have to worry about a lot of blood. You - just like all the generations of women before you, will manage this just fine. We are with you all the way!! Lots of love to you, Aunty Hilda xox

Why is there stuff that looks like cottage cheese in my underwear?????

Great question! It sounds like you might be noticing vaginal discharge, which can sometimes have a thick, cottage cheese-like appearance. This is usually normal, as your body produces discharge to keep the vagina clean and healthy. However, there are a few things to consider: 1. Normal vaginal discharge Discharge can vary in texture, colour, and consistency throughout your menstrual cycle. It's often white or clear, and it can get thicker and more opaque around ovulation (the middle of your cycle). Cottage cheese-like discharge can sometimes be a sign of a normal change in your body’s natural processes, especially if it’s not accompanied by other symptoms. 2. Possible signs of an infection If the discharge is accompanied by other symptoms like itching, burning, an unusual smell, or irritation, it could be a sign of a yeast infection, which is fairly common. Yeast infections can cause thick, white discharge that looks like cottage cheese. 3. What to do If you’re noticing unusual symptoms or you're concerned, it might be a good idea to check in with a healthcare professional to make sure everything is okay. If it’s just a change in your usual discharge, and there are no other symptoms, it’s likely just part of your body’s normal cycle. Your body is always changing, and vaginal discharge is a completely natural thing. If you ever feel unsure about anything, talking to a doctor or nurse can help ease any concerns. Lots of love, Aunty Hilda xox

All my friends know how to use tampons but I'm too embarrassed to ask

Great question! It can take a bit of practise, so don't be put off. Some of the Aunties would suggest starting off with applicator tampons, because they can be easier to use. There is also a diagram in the tampon box, which shows you the angle in which to insert the tampon. It's important to relax and try when you are properly bleeding so there is enough lubrication. If you do not successfully insert a tampon, then don't try with the same one again. Get a new one! Also, make sure you put it in far enough!! It should be a tampon plus a finger deep - or the whole applicator. It is truly uncomfortable if you don't get it in far enough. if it's right, then you shouldn't even know it's there. All the best!! Aunty Hilda xoxoxox

How do I know I'm going to get my period soon?

Hi there, if this is about your very first period ever, then...... it's a bit of a guessing game! You will have had puberty changes take place, ie breast and pubic hair. Then closer to the time of your first period, you may notice an increase in vaginal discharge. You may also notice you get some cramping and some mood changes and more emotional. Your breasts may also get tender or very sore. Also check out our period page on the website!! If you are wondering about how to track your period, there are heaps of period trackers you can use, or jot it down on a calendar or in your diary. The predictors aren't always accurate and lots of girls have irregular periods, so sometimes it's hard to know! We hope this helps! All the best for your approaching womanhood :) Lots of love Aunty Hilda xoxox