Menstruation

Your first period is an important part of growing up. It is a normal, healthy action of your body, but that doesn't mean that you shouldn't have questions about what is happening. Educating yourself about the facts of puberty is the best way for you to become comfortable with the many changes that will come.

What is my 'period'?
The medical term for it is menstruation, and it is the end of a month-long cycle of hormonal changes in your body. At the beginning of the cycle the hormone levels in your body are increasing as an egg is being prepared to be released for possible fertilization. At the same time, a build-up of blood and cells occurs in the lining of the uterus, the organ where a fertilized egg grows into a fetus. If at the end of this cycle the egg is not fertilized and you do not become pregnant, the hormone levels drop and the lining of your uterus is shed through the vagina. This shedding of the lining is called the menstrual flow, and it can take as long as two to six days.

How much blood loss is normal?
Most women lose roughly 4 tablespoons of blood during menstruation. The flow can sometimes appear dark and lumpy, but this is perfectly normal. It is important to realize that what you are discharging is blood and tissue, and that you are not actually bleeding from an internal cut.

My period sometimes comes twice a month. Is this normal?
Most cycles take around 28 days to complete, but a normal cycle can be anything from 21 days to as long as 35 days. Irregular menstrual cycles are not uncommon in teenage girls, particularly in the two years following your first period. Stress and sudden changes in diet or environment can also affect your cycle.

When will I get my first period?
There is no one 'right' time or age to get your first period. Most girls begin menstruating between their 10th and 16th birthdays, and even this wide range won't be true for everyone. There are signs that your period is approaching such as developing breasts and hair growing around your genitals and in your armpits. You should talk to your mom, as many girls get their periods around the same time that their mothers did.

What should I do to prepare for my period?
Your doctor, or school nurse can help answer some of your questions. You can also read many books on puberty and menstruation at your public library or local bookstore. You can also get ready by learning how to use tampons and sanitary napkins, the things that absorb the menstrual flow. But most of all, talk to your parents - they can help you understand menstruation and make you feel comfortable about it.

Are there other changes that can happen?
Yes, many women experience some physical or emotional changes just before or during each menstrual period. Some of the physical effects are temporary weight gain from retaining water, swollen legs and breasts, pelvic ache and headache. The emotional changes can include depression, irritability and loss of concentration as well as cravings for specific foods. When these symptoms occur before menstruation they are termed 'premenstrual syndrome' or PMS, and are probably the result of the high levels of hormones present at that time.