Period FAQs

how to know when your first period is coming

by Ms. Amely Wisozk DVM Published 2 years ago Updated 1 year ago
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Signs That Indicate Your First Period Is Coming

  • 1. Breast Development Breast development is the first sign of a girl’s period. It starts as breast buds grow from raised nipples as a result of developing fat, tissue and milk glands in the body. ...
  • 2. Hair Growth Excessive body hair begins to develop either before or after the appearance of breast buds. ...
  • 3. Vaginal Discharge

Most of the time, a girl gets her period about 2 years after her breasts start to develop. Another sign is vaginal discharge fluid (sort of like mucus) that a girl might see or feel on her underwear. This discharge usually begins about 6 months to a year before a girl gets her first period.

Full Answer

What are the signs of getting your first period?

#1: Look for puberty signs and symptoms.

  • Height growth. If you experience faster bone growth, you might be closer to your initial bleeding.
  • Pubic hair. Thicker hair around your genitals and armpits is another symptom of a reaching period age. ...
  • Boddy odor. Puberty causes your sweat and body scent to be more pungent. ...
  • Breast growth. This one is usually a women-specific symptom. ...

What are signs that you are getting your period soon?

What are the symptoms and signs of period coming soon?

  1. Abdominal cramps. Abdomen cramps, which is experienced by a lot of women before their period starts, is a sign your period is coming soon.
  2. Change of mood. Are you experiencing a change in your behavior before your period? ...
  3. Acne on face. ...
  4. Breast pain and swelling. ...
  5. Abdominal bloating, gas and pain. ...
  6. Headache. ...
  7. Sleepless nights before period. ...
  8. Fatigue
  9. Food cravings

More items...

What are the signs of a first period?

Your period usually arrives around one to two years after. Discharge: Vaginal discharge (white or yellowish fluid) is usually a sure sign that your first period is on its way. You may want to start using ALWAYS pantiliners to protect your underwear.

What is the sign of a period?

Women typically get a few signs that their period is about to start. Those include things like abdominal cramps, headache, tender breasts, and changes in bowel movements.

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Why does blood appear on toilet paper?

Bladder infections or hemorrhoids can cause blood to appear on the toilet paper, too. If the blood is from the vagina it could be a sign that a period is going to start soon or it could be a sign of a vaginal infection. If you can't figure out what is causing this blood on the toilet paper you should see your doctor.

How to regulate your period?

Take steps to regulate your period. If your period is irregular, you should see your doctor. Make sure you find a doctor you are comfortable talking to, as this can feel like a sensitive subject for some. Sometimes, there may be an underlying health issue causing irregularity; other times, irregular periods can be regulated with lifestyle changes such as weight loss or changing your type of birth control.

How to remind yourself of your period?

Use an online calendar/planning tool. Set up a Google calendar event and send yourself a reminder around the time your next period is scheduled. That way, you can write it down in the calendar when your period actually comes and compare the two dates. This will help you learn your body's normal cycle variances, as well as reminding you to be on the lookout for your period when it is scheduled to come.

How to track your period?

Use an app. Consider using an online application like MyMonthlyCycles, MyMenstrualCalendar, or an app on your phone like Period Tracker. This kind of technology is great for helping your keep track of your period from the ease of your mobile phone.

How to know when your next period is?

Keep a record. Note the first and last days of your period on a calendar. This way, you can estimate when your next period might come. Most women's periods come every 28 days, but if you keep track of your periods, you can determine what length your own cycle is.

What does it mean when your stomach aches?

This is not regular period cramps, and is a sign of appendicitis.

What Is A Normal Period For A Teenager

The average menstrual cycle is about 28 days, but its also normal to get your period every 21 to 45 days. Most periods stick around fewer than seven days. Still, Meltzer adds, Almost everything to do with a teens first few years of menstruation can be considered normal.

When To Go To The Doctor

A girl’s first menstruation is called menarche. This is pronounced MEN-arc or MEN-arc-y. When a girl passes certain milestones in her development, but does not start having periods, this is called Primary Amenorrhea. This is pronounced A-men-or-rea or Ah-men-or-rea. The word primary is the part that means the girl has never had a period.

How Do I Prepare For My First Period

There is no way to make your first period come any quicker, but you can prepare for when it does! If youve experienced some of the above signs, your period may soon start, so you may want to keep some towels in your school bag and a spare pair of knickers close just in case.

Treatment For Period Discomfort

During your period, you may experience discomfort, such as cramps or headaches. Getting regular exercise and staying well hydrated may help improve these symptoms. A heating pad can also be used to help with abdominal cramps, along with over-the-counter ibuprofen.

Breast Pain And Swelling

Do you experience increased pain in your breast before your period starts? Do you notice your breasts are slightly larger before your period?

Whats Normal Whats Not

While everyones period experience is different, there is still an ideal way your period should look. If your period doesnt look like this as a teen, thats ok. It can take up to six years for our bodies to get the hang of having a regular period.

How Do I Know When I Will Get My Next Period

Its impossible to predict when your next period will start. Most girls and women go about 28 days from the first day of one period to the first day of the next, but anywhere from 21-35 days is normal. Especially in the first few years of menstruating, your period may be very irregular.

What is period pad?

Sanitary pads are a popular form of period protection. They line the underwear with absorbent material, which soaks up the blood.

What does it mean when you have your first period?

The first period usually means that ovulation has occurred. Ovulation means that pregnancy is possible. However, both periods and ovulation can be irregular during the first few years after the first period, making it difficult to predict fertility.

How long does a period last?

Most periods last for 3–7 days. However, first periods can be less predictable, so they may be slightly shorter or longer.

What to do if you don't have a pad for your period?

If it is not possible to use a pad or tampon, try to wrap something absorbent, such as toilet paper or a clean washcloth, around the crotch area of some underwear. This can absorb the blood and prevent leaks. It can be helpful to prepare a period kit before the first period arrives. This can help with feeling ready.

How old do you have to be to get your period?

Around 98% of females begin their first period by the time they are 15 years of age, but the average age has decreased over time.

What happens when the ovaries release an egg into the fallopian tube?

This happens when the ovaries release an egg into the fallopian tube. When this happens, the womb lining thickens in preparation for the egg to be fertilized. If fertilization does not occur, the lining sheds, as the body no longer needs it. This is where period blood comes from.

Why do we keep period products in our bag?

keeping period products in one’s bag, in case it becomes necessary to use one at short notice

What does it mean when you have a white discharge?

Discharge: Vaginal discharge (white or yellowish fluid) is usually a sure sign that your first period is on its way. You may want to start using ALWAYS pantiliners to protect your underwear. Your period should start in the next few months! You will find out more information about vaginal discharge in our article Vaginal discharge: Icky but Amazing .

What to put in a period emergency kit?

Here are some ideas: Prepare an emergency kit containing a pantiliner, pad and clean underwear in a discreet bag. Keep a pantiliner or pad in your book bag or purse.

How old do you have to be to get your period?

Although a lot of girls get their first period between 11 and 13 years old, you could get yours anywhere between 9 and 16. Everyone has her own “biological clock,” and yours is different from anyone else's. So even if you feel like you'll never get your period, don't worry, you will! How do you know it’s on its way? Watch for these signs.

When do you start growing pubic hair?

Growing pubic hair: Just after your breasts start to form, you'll probably start growing pubic hair. It will be soft and thin at first, but it’ll get coarser over time. Your period usually arrives around one to two years after.

Can toilet paper work in an emergency?

In an emergency, toilet paper can work until you can get a pantiliner or pad

What percentage of women have PMS?

Ninety percent of women have premenstrual syndrome(PMS) symptoms at some point in their reproductive life. Some women have more severe PMS signs and symptoms than others. Changing hormones are to blame for many uncomfortable or unpleasant period signs and symptoms like cramps and tender breasts.

What are cramps in the lower belly?

Cramps in your lower belly are the most frequent menstrual complaint. Cramps that occur before or during your period are called primary dysmenorrhea. Unlike many other symptoms, which begin 1-2 weeks before your period and end when bleeding starts, cramps usually show up right before your period and last for 2-3 days.

How to stop bloating during premenstrual period?

Water retention is another major complaint. It’s also hormonal, but you can curb premenstrual bloat by cutting out salt, eating more fruits and vegetables, and exercisingregularly.

Why does my lower back hurt during my period?

Your lower back hurts. Period cramps don’t just affect the belly. Changes in natural chemicals called prostaglandins that line the uterus cause contractions that you could also feel in your back or thighs.

Why do my breasts feel sore after my period?

Your breastsare sore or heavy. Breast pain linked to periods is called cyclical breast pain. Your breasts may feel tender or swollen right after ovulation until a few days after period bleeding starts. Changes in the hormones estrogen, progesterone, and prolactin, the breastfeedinghormone, may play a role.

How long does it take for a period to end?

Period signs and symptoms usually end about 3-4 days after bleeding begins. Common signs that your period is approaching are: . You’re breaking out. Acneis a common problem at this time of the month. Adult women get acnemuch more than men do, and it’s all because of hormones.

Why do women get acne?

Adult women get acnemuch more than men do, and it’s all because of hormones. Period-related breakouts are called cyclical acne. Rising hormone levels kickstart oil (called sebum) production, which clogs pores and causes pimples as your period is about to start.

How do I deal with PMS and cramps?

PMS stands for Premenstrual Syndrome. It’s when the hormones that control your menstrual cycle cause changes in your body and emotions around the time of your period.

How to calm cramps before period?

You can calm cramps by taking pain medicine (like ibuprofen ). Putting a heating pad where it hurts, taking a hot bath, exercising, or stretching your body can also help.

What is the purpose of the menstrual cycle?

It’s controlled by hormones in your body. The purpose of the menstrual cycle is to help your body get ready for pregnancy. Your menstrual cycle = the time from the 1st day of your period to the 1st day of your next period. Learn more about how your menstrual cycle works.

What to do if PMS is bad?

If your PMS is so bad that it’s hard to do normal activities during your period, talk to an adult you trust or your family doctor. You can also call your local Planned Parenthood health center. You shouldn’t have to suffer every month, and they can help you find the cause and get treatment. YouTube. Planned Parenthood.

When do you start your period?

Menstruation (also known as having your period) is when blood from your uterus drips out of your vagina for a few days every month. You start getting your period during puberty, usually when you’re around 12-15 years old. Your menstrual cycle is what makes your period come every month. It’s controlled by hormones in your body.

Do you get PMS every time you have your period?

Some people get PMS every time they have their periods. Others only get PMS every once in awhile. You may have all or just some PMS symptoms. And some people don't get PMS at all. Learn more about PMS. Cramps are one of the most common symptoms to have before/during your period.

How often do you get your period?

Most people get their period every 21-35 days — around once a month (that’s why periods are sometimes called “that time of the month”). The bleeding lasts for 2-7 days — it’s different for everyone. Your period might not always come at the same time each month, especially when you first start getting it.

How long should a tampon stay in your vagina?

Tampons must be changed every eight hours at most. Leaving a tampon in for more than eight hours can increase your risk for irritation or infection as a result of the bacteria present.

What to do if you feel like you're losing blood?

Heavier bleeding isn’t necessarily cause for concern. But if you feel like you’re losing too much blood, tell your guardian or talk to the school nurse. You should also tell a trusted adult if you: have to change your pad, tampon, or menstrual cup every one to two hours. feel lightheaded.

What is period underwear?

Period underwear is a relatively new invention. It’s like regular underwear, except it’s created with a special fabric that absorbs menstrual tissue and traps it within the fabric.

Why does my period start bleeding?

The uterine lining thickens so it can support a fertilized egg and develop into a pregnancy. If there isn’t a fertilized egg, your body will break the lining down and push it out of your uterus. This results in bleeding — your menstrual period.

How long does a period last?

(2019). It may take a couple of months for your period to settle into a regular schedule and consistency. Once it does, your period may last anywhere from two to seven days each month.

When does your period follow a pattern?

Your monthly period will follow a more consistent pattern once your hormones stabilize.

Do you need a pad for your period?

Generally speaking, the smaller the pad, the less blood it can hold. You’ll probably use a more absorbent pad at the beginning of your period then switch to something lighter once the bleeding slows down. You may also find it helpful to wear a heavier pad overnight so you don’t have to worry about leakage.

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