Here's an assortment of emails that we received from girls who wanted the BeingGirl Experts to share what they have learned. 

This is actually advice for girls. I got my period the other day, and I sent my mom an e-mail about it. She sent me an e-mail back, and she was glad I told her. If you're embarrassed about this stuff, and your mom, or close female relative, or friend has their own e-mail, send them one telling them what is going on. They'll be glad you did!

        —Ellie

This isn't really a question. It's more along the lines of advice. When I was in seventh grade, I used pads during my period. In volleyball, soccer, and dance it was horrible. I had to cancel so many swimming trips with my friends because of it, and I wanted so bad to ask my mom to switch to tampons, but I was too scared. Then at the beginning of eighth grade in dance team, I finally got the courage to ask her if I could switch, and she said "yes." I was still scared to actually try it but I did. I felt so free, I could do anything I wanted, even go to wild waves on my period. Now, I only use pads at night. For those of you who are scared, just try it. It doesn't hurt at all. But the most important thing is to RELAX. For me it's totally comfortable and discreet.

        —Karina

I just decided to start wearing tampons, and I am so happy I did! They are very comfortable, and I feel so much more confident and dry than I did with pads! To girls who are not sure about where to put the tampon, I have a suggestion: take a small, hand mirror and open up the skin around your vagina (below your urethra), and put the mirror down there while reflecting it so you can see. There is an opening there, and that's where you insert the tampon! I'm positive that once you know where the opening is, you'll feel better about tampons! Hope I helped!

        —Louisha