This guide answers common questions teens have about menstruation.
What is a Period?
A period is bleeding from the vagina that happens about once a month. It’s a sign your body is maturing and entering a stage where pregnancy is possible.
When Will I Get My Period?
Most girls get their first period between 10 and 15 years old, but there’s no single “right” age. Here are some signs it might be coming soon:
- Breast development began about 2 years prior.
- You notice vaginal discharge (mucus-like fluid) on your underwear.
What Causes Periods?
Hormones control your menstrual cycle. Estrogen and progesterone thicken the lining of your uterus (womb) to prepare for a fertilized egg. If pregnancy doesn’t occur, the lining breaks down and leaves your body as your period. This cycle usually repeats every month.
Ovulation and Periods
Ovulation is when an egg is released from an ovary. The same hormones that thicken your uterine lining cause ovulation. If the egg isn’t fertilized, the lining sheds and you get your period.
Period Regularity
Periods may not be regular at first, especially for the first few years. This is normal. They should become more regular (around every 4-5 weeks) within 2-3 years of getting your first period.
Can I Get Pregnant Right Away?
Yes. Hormones may be active before your first period, leading to ovulation and a uterine lining. This means pregnancy is possible even before your first period.
Period Length and Frequency
Periods typically last 5 days, but can be shorter or longer. They usually come every 4-5 weeks, although some girls experience slight variations.
Period Products
There are several options for managing period blood:
- Pads: Absorbent cotton cloths with sticky backs that adhere to underwear. They come in various sizes and shapes.
- Tampons: Cotton plugs inserted into the vagina to absorb blood. Most tampons have applicators for easy insertion. It’s important to change tampons every 4-8 hours to avoid infection.
- Menstrual Cups: Reusable silicone cups inserted into the vagina to collect blood. They are emptied periodically and washed for reuse.
Choosing a Product
Experiment to find what works best for you. Some girls use only one method, while others switch depending on the activity. Pads are often preferred for first periods, while tampons may be more convenient for sports or swimming.
Blood Loss
It may seem like a lot, but most girls only lose a few tablespoons of blood during their entire period. Changing your chosen product 3-6 times a day is usually sufficient.
Periods Throughout Life
Periods stop permanently during menopause (around age 45-55). You also won’t have periods while pregnant.
PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome)
PMS refers to emotional and physical symptoms like mood swings, bloating, and acne that occur before or during your period. These typically disappear within a few days of your period starting.
Managing Cramps
Many girls experience cramps, especially during the first few days of their period. Here are some remedies:
- Apply a warm heating pad to your belly.
- Take ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) to relieve pain.
When to See a Doctor
Most periods are normal. However, consult a doctor if you:
- Haven’t gotten your period by age 15.
- Your periods are irregular for more than 2 years after starting.
- Experience bleeding between periods.
- Have severe cramps that don’t improve with medication.
- Have very heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad or tampon frequently).
- Periods last longer than a week.
- Have severe PMS that disrupts your daily life.
The Bottom Line
Periods are a natural and healthy part of being a girl. They shouldn’t prevent you from exercising, having fun, and living your life! Don’t hesitate to ask a doctor, parent, teacher, nurse, or older sister if you have any questions.
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