Is it time for your first period? This milestone leads you to a new stage in your life. The first period can be exciting and a little scary, but there’s no need to worry. Imagine it as an adventure that will help you get to know your body better and realize how amazing it is!
When to expect the first menstruation?
The first menstruation is an important milestone in the life of every girl. It usually occurs between the ages of 10 and 15 and is associated with the onset of puberty, that ever so exciting age that is the transition point between childhood and adolescence. It happens once a month and the duration depends on each body – most often it is between 3 to 7 days, and the whole cycle, that is from menstruation to menstruation lasts 28-30 days. Exciting and sometimes a little scary, this moment brings with it many questions and emotions.
How to recognize that the first menstruation is near?
- changes in the body: breast enlargement and the appearance of hair in the intimate areas;
- white discharge: you may notice a white discharge a few months before your first period, which is a normal sign of the approaching event.
Knowing what to expect is exactly what will make you more relaxed and prepared. In any case, don’t panic, because this is all normal. Tell a parent about it, it’s usually mum who will understand you best and help you right away. You can also tell your teacher if it happens during class.
Am I going to lose a lot of blood?
In any case, do not take this event as a blood loss. Usually between 3-5 tablespoons are lost over the entire period. Another interesting thing that will strike you is that you will see tissue that is part of the uterine wall, or blood clots. This is all a normal process from the unfertilized eggs that the body expels out.
How to prepare for the first menstruation?
Preparing for your first period is important for your peace of mind and confidence. Let’s look at what you can do to be ready.
What to do before the first menstruation?
- Learn about the menstrual cycle – find out what menstruation is and how the menstrual cycle works. Read books, articles and watch educational videos to get a full understanding of the process. This will help you understand what is happening in your body and why. Ask your mother for help too, so she can explain from her personal experience and get you up to speed if you haven’t talked before.
- Always have sanitary pads, tampons or a menstrual cup handy. Each of these has its advantages and disadvantages, so experiment to find out which is most comfortable for you.
- Choose comfortable and appropriate underwear for those days. You can invest in several pairs of special menstrual underwear that are more comfortable and prevent leakage. Menstrual underwear is designed with built-in absorbent layers that provide extra protection.
- Share with your mother, sister or a close friend to get support and advice. They can tell you about their experiences and give you helpful advice. Talk to them about how they feel and what their recommendations are for dealing with different aspects of menstruation.
What hygiene products to choose?
The choice of hygiene products is important for comfort and hygiene during menstruation. There are many options, so it is good to know what to look for.
Types of hygiene products
- sanitary pads are easy to use and come in different sizes and absorbencies – there are night pads, day pads, thinner pads for light periods and more;
- tampons are discreet and comfortable for an active lifestyle. They are inserted into the vagina and it is important to change them every 4 hours. Ideal for active girls who play sports or swim;
- menstrual cups are an environmentally friendly and economical choice. Like tampons, they are inserted into the vagina but can be worn for up to 12 hours. They are reusable, and it is important to sterilize them before reinsertion.
Important! If you are still a virgin, you can use tampons, but only the smallest Mini version. The hymen, located at the entrance to the vagina, becomes stretchy during hormonal changes and a sanitary device can be inserted without disturbing it. However, if you are scared, we advise you not to take any chances with tampons or a cup, but to use only bandages.
What to do about pain and discomfort?
Menstrual pain and discomfort are common, but there are ways to relieve them and feel better. You can put a warm compress on your abdomen to ease the pain. Another option is to use over-the-counter painkillers. Light exercise and yoga can help relieve tension.
If the pain is very severe, consult a doctor to get appropriate advice and treatment.
Can we do sports during menstruation?
Many girls wonder if they can continue with the workouts during menstruation. The answer is YES. Of course you can exercise, but it’s also important to listen to your body. What does this mean?
- Physical activity can help relieve menstrual pain. Light exercise such as walking, yoga or pilates can help relieve cramps and pain. For example, the “child” pose in yoga helps relax the muscles in the lower abdomen.
- Sport boosts levels of endorphins, which act as natural painkillers and improve mood and reduce stress. Dancing to your favourite music or a light jog in the park can significantly improve your mood.
- Light workouts like stretching or swimming can help you feel more energetic and vital. Try doing 10-15 minute stretches in the morning to start your day with energy and freshness.
Drowned your first period? You may have lots of questions, but keep calm and seek help or advice. Your first period is just the beginning of a new start towards maturing and growing, towards knowing your body better.
