Your first period (menarche) quick facts:
- typically occurs around age 12 but can start at age 10 up to age 15.
- occurrence depends on overall health , diet and often similar to when your mother started her first period
Sure we all have funny stories of our first periods! It may happen at school, sometimes it will happen while you are asleep (lucky you).
During the first few years you have your period, don’t be bothered if it’s not regular. It is actually normal for it to be a bit irregular. Sometimes you ll wait only 28 days between cycles. Other times it may be 40 days! There’s no need to worry; it is not the same in all women - and you can always talk to a health care provider you need to.
What’s happening during my period?
Menstruation is what most people call having your period. Menstruation is part of the natural process that prepares your body to be able to get pregnant someday when you are mature and ready. This is also called your “menstrual cycle,” with your period being the first day. During menstruation, the lining of the uterus flows out through your vagina.
A woman’s period typically lasts from 5-7 days. Some days it will be a “heavy flow,” with more blood leaving your body. Other days will be a “lighter flow,” when less blood will trickle out.
Taking care of your body during your period
When you are menstruating, it is important to take good care of yourself! If you have cramps, before or during your period, try taking a warm bath and soaking your tummy. It might help soothe away the pain. Tea and warm drinks might also help to ease off the cramps, as would a heating pad.
If you experience cramps, try taking some paracetamol to help relieve the symptoms of cramps. If your cramps are unbearable, talk to a doctor or nurseabout other possible remedies like prescription medication or the help of birth control pills.
Feminine Products
While you have your period, you want to absorb the flow of blood in order to stay clean. There are different options and your mom, sister, or other older female friend/relative can help you decide what's best for you.
Pads (sometimes called sanitary towels) stick to your underwear and absorb the flow of blood once it leaves your body. The come in many sizes, thicknesses, and widths – you may have to experiment to find the best one for you. If you don’t have access to pads, you can use clean cloths - just fold pieces of cloth thick enough to absorb the menstrual flow, and have the edges of the material extend over your underpants to catch any leakages. Each cloth should be changed, and washed in hot soapy water, and properly dried, before being used again.
During the day, depending on how strong your flow is, you should change your pad or cloth every few hours. At night, using a thicker pad or making your folded cloth thicker in order to be ok for you throughout the night should be avoided. It can be harmful because you cannot get enough air.