periods are completely normal, natural, healthy, and simply a part of growing up.
What is a Period?
Your period is when you lose a small amount of blood from your vagina. It normally lasts for about 3-8 days and will happen once a month, but it might not always be regular when they first start.
Periods are completely normal, and most girls and people who are biologically female will start their periods during puberty.
Lots of people will start their periods around the age of 12, but it could be earlier or later than that.
Some people worry about getting hurt, but periods are safe and losing the blood isn’t something that will hurt you.
Why do we have periods?
Periods are part of your menstrual cycle. This is when your body prepares for the possibility of getting pregnant.
Each month one of your ovaries releases an egg. The egg travels down 1 of 2 tubes called fallopian tubes and into your womb.
The lining of your womb thickens for a short while during this time. If the egg is fertilised by sperm, it will stick in this lining and grow. This is how you get pregnant.
If the egg is not fertilised, then the lining of the womb breaks down and passes out of your body through your vagina as a small amount of blood — this is called a period.
Irregular Periods.
Your periods might be irregular when they first start as your body adjusts to the changes in your hormones, meaning they might come more often than you expect or that you might miss one.
This can sometimes make it hard to know when your period will happen so you could keep a sanitary pad or tampon in the zipped section of your bag or in a make-up bag or pencil case in case you need it.
You might miss a period after your first one as your body gets used to the changes. Being ill, not eating and some types of medication can also make your period late.
If you’re worried or your periods don't settle down into a regular pattern, it may help to talk to a nurse.
A period doesn't mean you'll bleed all day. It's normal to stop bleeding for a few hours and then bleed a bit more. Everyone is different and what you experience may be different to what someone else experiences.
Tips to help you with your period.
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Keep sanitary products and a change of underwear in your bag, pencil case, make up bag, drawer or locker.
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Let a teacher you feel comfortable with know in case you need to go to the toilet to change.
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Speak to a trusted adult for help with pain or discomfort.
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Keep track of your periods with a diary or app.
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Gentle exercise can help relive pain or bloating.
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Warm baths, hot water bottles & heat pads can help with cramps.
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Drink plenty of water and keep your favorite comfort foods & snacks well stocked, most girls crave chocolate around this time.
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Ensure you are showering daily & change your sanitary products every 4-6 hours to keep you feeling fresh, carrying body spray always helps too.
Period pains, PMS & mood swings.
Throughout your period you have different levels of hormones in your body. It's natural to have some side effects from this.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is the name for some of the feelings you might have before your period. It’s sometimes called premenstrual tension or PMT, and lots of people will experience it at some point.
PMS can have a big effect on you, and it’s important to get support if you need it.
Symptoms of PMS
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mood swings and getting easily annoyed
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crying or feeling sad all of a sudden
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not being able to concentrate
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feeling really tired & fatigued
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your breasts feeling softer than normal
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your stomach feeling really full or bloated
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cramping in the stomach area
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temporary weight gain
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headaches.
Common Questions
How much blood do you lose?
The amount of blood you lose during your period is about 30-70 ml, which is 5 to 12 teaspoons full, although it might seem like a lot more.
How do I know when it starts?
You might feel a little bloated, have tender breasts, or notice a light spotting before it starts. It's different for everyone, so pay attention to how your body feels.
What should I do if I'm scared?
It's completely normal to feel nervous. Remember, you are doing a great job just by asking questions. Look for advice online or speak to a trusted adult.
Can I still play sports?
Absolutely! Just make sure to wear a pad or tampon that fits well. Your body is strong, and you can do anything you want.
What if I forget to use protection?
Don't worry! It's okay to forget. Ask a friend if they have a pad you could use, if not use some rolled up toilet roll to get you through & make sure to use a pad or tampon the next time you go to the bathroom. It's a learning process, and you're doing great.