As you enter puberty, you will notice that your body begins to change. Your breasts will begin to grow, hair will appear on your legs, pubic area (genitals), and under your arms (armpits). You may also develop acne (pimples or zits). These changes may be scary, but they are very normal and natural. They are caused by chemicals and hormones that become active when you reach puberty.
If you are a girl, a big change that you will also experience during puberty is called menstruation (a period). All women menstruate, but the age when they get their first period can vary between 9-17 years. Everyone is different.
During the first year of menstruation the length of your period and the time between your periods may vary from month to month. As time passes, most women will experience regular periods.
The Menstrual Cycle
The average menstrual cycle goes something like this:
Days 1-5 (during menstruation)
Days 6-15 (after menstruation)
Days 16-28 (before menstruation)
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If the egg is fertilized by the male sperm cell, it implants itself in the wall of the uterus
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If the egg is NOT fertilized, the blood vessels in the wall of the uterus shrink and break down – MENSTRUATION begins again
Even though your period is a normal part of growing up, you may feel shy or embarrassed - this is okay. It’s a big change for you, and you will begin to feel more comfortable with it as time passes.
How Can You Tell When Your Period Is Coming?
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Keeping a regular calendar will help you predict the timing and length of your next period – helping you manage it each month.
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Remember – your periods may be unpredictable at first, but they will most likely become regular as time goes by.
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Before the beginning of your period you may start to feel “down” or moody. Your stomach may feel bloated, your breasts may be tender, and your face may break out with pimples. These symptoms are called PMS (Pre-Menstrual Syndrome). They are normal and (most importantly) only temporary. When your period starts, they will go away.
Feminine Protection During Your Period
You may wish to try pads when your menstruation first begins. There are different types of pads depending on how heavy your bleeding is (bleeding is usually heaviest during the first 2-3 days of your period). You will be able to choose the right pad for you by experimenting a little at the very beginning. Try to avoid perfumed pads because they contain chemicals that may irritate the genital area.
As you get more comfortable with your body you may also wish to try tampons. When you do this, pay close attention to the instructions. Tampons should be changed 3-4 times a day to prevent infection. Tampons are a great choice when you plan to be active in swimming or other sports.
It’s always a good idea to have some pads or tampons on hand when your period is due. That way you’ll always be ready!
What About Hygiene?
Menstruation is a natural process and bleeding is a clean and normal discharge. However, some girls find it to be “messy” and slightly odorous. A daily shower (especially if you’re active) will help you feel fresh. Changing your pads or tampons as often as needed will also help.
Why These Cramps?
Some women experience period pain called DYSMENORRHEA. Menstrual pain can be felt in the lower abdomen and sometimes in the back. Natural substances in your body called prostaglandins control the amount of pain, swelling, and cramping during your period. Controlling these substances can relieve the discomfort and pain you feel when you menstruate.
You can accomplish this by:
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Applying a heating pad to your lower tummy or back to relax the tight muscles
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Taking a warm, soothing bath
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Eating small, frequent meals high in protein (peanut butter, meat, eggs, etc.) and carbohydrates (pasta, bread, etc.) to increase your energy
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Avoiding excess caffeine (cola drinks, coffee, chocolate, etc.) during your period
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Talking to your doctor about some medication that could help
Maintained
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