One of the most important things you need to know is that, when it comes to periods, what you are going through is perfectly normal – and it's all part of puberty. Having periods is one of the ways your body tells you that you're healthy. You may feel a bit worried at first, but your body is going through a big growing–up stage and it's actually something to be proud of. Once you've had a few periods, they'll become part of life like everything else, so you can get on and do anything and everything you normally do – and the Pogo Pack™ can help with this.
We've given you some information below, and also check out More Useful Stuff where we've listed books and websites that can give you a lot more information about puberty, periods, growing up, hormones, etc.
Nature made every one of us different so, although all girls will start their periods at some point, every girl is will have a slightly different experience. The average age for a girls' first period is around 12–13, but girls start anywhere from age 8 up to age 18 and over. Amazing, isn't it? So, whatever is – or isn't – happening to you, that's absolutely okay!
This is hard to answer as periods are different for every girl. Periods often start about two years after breast buds begin to develop. Also, you might get a white discharge (sticky fluid) in your knickers for many months beforehand. Because periods can be unpredictable, keep the PoGo Purse™ close at hand, filled with a selection of pads and disposal bags, plus a spare pair of knickers.
Again, this will depend on your body. A period can vary from 2 to 7 days long; the average is 5. When your periods first start, they may not be regular, meaning that you won't always know when they'll come. Over a period of time – sometimes up to two years – you should begin to see a pattern. This is called your "menstrual cycle" or "monthly cycle". A cycle is the number of days from the first day of one period to the first day of the next. It is usually 28 days but can be anywhere from 21 to 35 days. Now you know why every girl is different !
Once you know what your cycle is, you can be better prepared and if you keep track of your periods using the period planner in your Pogo Pack™, you will understand this better.
It may seem hard to believe but not very much at all – usually about a tablespoon a day. It looks much more than it really is !
You may get a dull pain below your tummy or in your lower back just before or during your period. This is perfectly normal. If it gets too painful, there are a few things you can try:
You might find you are having more arguments with people, and you can't understand why you're feeling the way you do. It's quite normal to feel really moody just before your periods start. This is because of the natural hormones in your body, and it's these hormones that are making your body change. Do talk to your mum, your friends or someone else you trust about this as they will probably be very understanding and may be able to reassure you that you're doing okay.
This is due to your hormones again. It's perfectly normal for your breasts to swell a little and feel a bit tender just before your periods. It's only temporary during your period so nothing to worry about.
If you are having to change your pads a lot, it would be sensible to speak to a grown–up or doctor about it, especially as you may also be feeling very tired and lacking in energy. It is possible that your heavy periods may be making you anaemic (lacking in iron). Your doctor can check this, and it is easily solved.
While your body is going through all these puberty changes, your sleeping and eating can change a bit. This is perfectly normal, but it can be unsettling. Please talk to your parents about how you're feeling so they can try to help. Now, more than ever, it's important to eat healthily and get plenty of fresh air and exercise to keep you fit and healthy. If you look after your body, your body will look after you.
No! One of the activities that girls tend to feel most anxious about is swimming. There is such a tiny amount of blood lost while swimming that no one is likely to notice anything at all. Just take a towel with you to and from the pool and you can cover up in comfort. The other option is to wear a tampon but, as we have said previously, it is important that you understand the health risks before using them. Please talk to a parent or other adult you trust for advice before using tampons.
No. Even though you might be feeling self-conscious (thinking everyone is staring at you because "they know"), there is nothing for people to notice. After all, can you tell when other girls are having their periods?
Now that your periods have started, personal hygiene (keeping yourself clean) is very important.
Maybe your school nurse could help you out, or your big sister – or a friend's big sister ? They'll have been through it all already and would probably be really pleased to help you.
There are also lots of good books about puberty. Check out More Useful Stuff or why not go to your local library?
If periods are just too embarrassing to talk about in your family, the Pogo Pack™ and the links from this site will give you all the information you need.
There can be different reasons why this happens. Very occasionally it might be an allergic reaction to sanitary pads or tampons. We recommend that you try a different brand, and that you visit your doctor as soon as possible to get treatment.
It is very, very rare for something to go wrong with a girl's periods, but you know your body better than anyone, so if something is really bothering you, do talk to someone, and see a doctor if necessary. Remember to take your period planner so they can see what's been happening with your bleeding.
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