Your Period

QUICK FACTS
Period, menstrual cycle, menstruation, menstrual period: Many names, one thing.
Your menstrual cycle begins on the day you start bleeding or see blood for the first time from your vagina.
During menstruation, the lining of the uterus flows out through your vagina.
A girl’s period typically lasts on between two and seven days.
You only lose about 3 Tablespoons of blood during your period, although it can seem like more!
About 28 days after you got your period, you will get it again

THE FIRST TIME
(Sure we all have funny stories of our first periods!) It may happen at school, sometimes it will happen while you are asleep (lucky you), and sometimes it will happen at a pool party or at church.
Everyone gets their period at different ages. Some girls will start menstruating at age 8, others will start at age 15! (Different bodies, different experiences)
During the first few years you have your period, do not be bothered if it is not regular. It is actually normal for it to be a bit irregular. Sometimes you will wait only 28 days between cycles. Other times it may be 40 days! There is no need to worry - and you can always talk to a health care provider if you need to.

WHAT IS HAPPENING DURING MY PERIOD?
Menstruation is what most people call having your period. Menstruation is part of the natural process that prepares your body to be able to get pregnant someday when you are mature and ready. This is also called your “menstrual cycle,” with your period being the first day. During menstruation, the lining of the uterus flows out through your vagina.
A girl’s period typically lasts from 5-7 days. Some days it will be a “heavy flow,” with more blood leaving your body. Other days will be a “lighter flow,” when less blood will trickle out.

TAKING CARE OF YOUR BODY DURING YOUR PERIOD:
When you are menstruating, it is important to take good care of yourself! If you have cramps, before or during your period, try taking a warm bath and soaking your tummy. It might help soothe away the pain. Tea and warm drinks might also help to ease off the cramps, as would a heating pad.
If you experience Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), try taking some paracetamol to help relieve the symptoms of cramps. If your cramps are unbearable, talk to a healthcare provider about other possible remedies like prescription medication or the help of family planning pills.

FEMININE PRODUCTS
While you have your period, you want to absorb the flow of blood in order to stay clean. There are different options and your mom, sister, or other older female friend/relative can help you decide what is best for you.