What to Expect When You Get Your First Period
Getting your first period can be really exciting - and also a little scary. Not to worry, though. I’ve been there, done that, and have some information that will help your first period experience flow smoothly. First periods come anywhere between age 11 and 15, but for some it does happen a few years earlier or later. This is normal - your body is just as unique as you are and it knows when the time is right. Knowing the answer to some common questions that people have when they first start menstruating (which is another way of saying “having your period”) can make you feel less nervous about the changes your body is going through.
What is a period?
Basically, your period happens when your ovaries release an egg that doesn’t get fertilized (sperm is what turns an egg into an embryo, which eventually becomes a baby). Once you start menstruating, you release an egg each month. When that egg doesn’t become fertilized, it dissolves into the lining of your uterus. The lining then sheds. That’s what the blood is that comes from your vagina when you have your period.
How much am I supposed to bleed?
Everyone is different. Some people have heavy periods, while some only bleed a little. On average uterus only releases about 2-3 tablespoons of blood every period. Sometimes, your period may be heavier at first and get lighter towards the end. If you have a heavy flow that soaks through your pad every hour for several hours, you should see a doctor.
How often will I get my period?
This depends. The average person gets their period every 28 days. But, ironically, most women don’t have “average” periods. You could start your period every 21 days or every 35 days, depending on your body. Remember, though, that during the first 2 years you have your period, it may be irregular. This is completely normal!
How long will my period last?
Periods can last anywhere from 3 to 7 days. If it lasts longer than a week, you should talk to your doctor just to make sure everything is ok.
Can I still play sports and swim when I’m on my period?
Of course! Your period doesn’t have to stop you from doing any of your regular activities. Just don’t wear a pad to go swimming - it absorbs water and will swell up. Menstrual cups are the perfect option for this!
Does having a period hurt?
While bleeding doesn’t hurt, you may find that you have cramps or a headache a few days before your period. This is called PMS or premenstrual syndrome, something that most women experience. Do some yoga, use a heating pad, or exercise to help relieve cramps.
Will other people know I’m on my period?
Nope! A common concern is that everyone will know you’re bleeding, but this just isn’t true. Period blood has no odor and, despite how it feels, other people can’t tell if you are wearing a pad. Having a period isn’t bad, though, and you should feel free to talk about it with whoever you want.
What if I bleed through my pants?
This happens sometimes. Don’t freak out! Just laugh it off and get to the bathroom as soon as you can to clean up. Keeping an extra pair of pants in your locker might not be a bad idea, as you learn how to manage your period.
Which products should I use on my period?
This is really up to you! Different people choose different things, depending on what they’re comfortable with. Menstrual cups are a great choice - they help you keep your body safe from toxic chemicals and are good for the environment. Period panties are excellent choice for first periods. Other options are reusable or disposable pads and organic tampons. It can take practice getting comfortable with using any of these but after a few months, you’ll be a pro!
185 comments
Hi, I’m eleven and my friend told me she started getting her period. I don’t even know if I’ve started puberty yet; the only thing that happened is my breasts got hard and sore. Either way I’m still really scared about my period.
Also, is it necessary to wear tampons, or will I be okay without them?
Heya Amber,
I wish there was a way to control these things, but sadly there isn’t.
But don’t worry, your body knows when the time is right and your period will show up exactly when it should.
In the meantime, if you’re feeling concerned about your level of discharge, it might not hurt to consult your doctor. They should be able to provide you with valuable insight.
Wishing you all the best. <3
Hi
I’m 12 years old and I am fully developed but have not had my first period, I have been having very heavy discharge for over four years now. I have to wear a pad every day which is really annoying and can cost a lot of money! Is there some way I can induce my first period or if not then some way to not have as much discharge.
Please help :(
Amber x
Hey Elyna,
Sounds to me like you may be getting close!
While this is very exciting, try not to worry about when it will happen. Your body knows when the time is right and your period will show up exactly when it should. <3
Hello Mum,
While heavy periods are not uncommon, if you find that your daughter’s bleeding is disrupting her everyday life, it doesn’t hurt to consult your doctor.
In the meantime, here’s a blog article you may find interesting: https://www.lunette.com/blogs/news/heavy-periods-you-may-have-menorrhagia
My daughter is on her 3rd period & seems very heavy.Is it normal? So early on?
Hi my name is elyna im 13 and i had discharge for maybe 2 to 3 years and it also goes brown i heard it means ur super close to getting it is this true i have hair down there and I had a grouth spurt recently (Grew 2+ inches)
Heya Marelyn,
Sounds to me like you may be showing signs of getting your period soon!
While I wish I could tell you exactly when that’s going to happen, sadly I can’t. But don’t worry, I’m sure it’ll be here before you know it. <3
My discharge gets brown to sometimes, is that a sign? If it is pls tell me how longggg!
Hello, I’m 13 and I’m a late bloomer, my breast are small but I guess I could say average, I had discharge of almost 3 YEARS, its a lot to and I don’t know when I’ll get my period soon, I know my mom got hers at 14 and her sister at 9, so is this the year for me? Please tell me if I’m close!
Congratulations Avery. It sounds like you may be starting to get your periods!
Keep in mind that during the first couple years of having your period, it can be quite irregular. This is totally normal, but it may be good to download a period app or make notes on a calendar so you can track your cycle.
Also, we know that getting your first period can be exciting and scary, so don’t hesitate to seek help if you have any questions about what’s going on.
And remember, we’re always here to provide a little guidance when needed. Just send us a message at info@lunette.com. <3
Hi Shannah,
If you’re ever in a situation where you’ve run out of your period products, don’t hesitate to ask a friend, parent or teacher if they have something you can use. We’ve all been there. <3
Speaking of running out of period products, with a reusable menstrual cup you’ll always have what you need without having to worry about carrying extras. For more answers on what switching to a menstrual cup is like, send us an email at info@lunette.com. We can answer any questions you may have!
What happens if you are having your period and you just ran out of pads? Can you just layer toilet paper until you can get one, or should you just hope class will end soon and you can ask a friend for one? Also, do the thicker pads show as a lump underneath your vagina, or do they show up with skinny jeans?
Hey Elise,
Vaginal discharge is a totally normal part of life. It’s something that will not only vary in frequency, but also color and texture. That being said, if there’s ever anything that seems concerning, it never hurts to consult your doctor.
As far as your first period goes, it’s important to remember that your body is just as unique as you are and it knows when the time is right. Your period will be here before you know it, I’m sure. <3
So I haven’t had discharge for almost two years and I am fully developed. I recently discovered I have tight hip flexors and have been doing some exercises to help with them. In the few days I have noticed some discharge, but it is pretty light and dries white (is that okay!?) is it possible that my hip flexors could have been the problem for me not having my period? (My triplet sisters have theirs and my mom got hers at 12 while I’m already 14).
Great question, Abbigale!
If you’ve started your period, then you are definitely old enough to use a Lunette Menstrual Cup.
Like all of us at some point, you may still be getting to know your anatomy, so some practice using the cup might be needed. When you use it for the first time, make sure to give yourself plenty of time to try it out in a place you feel comfortable.
Oh, and for our teens and younger users, we recommend going with the Model 1 Cup.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at info@lunette.com if you have any questions at all! <3
i’m worried that i may start my period soon, as i have all the symptoms (im 11). i was wondering, when i get my first period, can i use a menstrual cup, or do you have to have your period for a couple months before you can use it?
Hi Gianna,
While we totally understand the excitement that comes with getting your first period, it’s important to remember that your body is just as unique as you are and it knows when the time is right. It’ll be here before you know it, I’m sure. In the meantime, it’s never a bad idea to check in with your doctor if you’re experience something new and uncomfortable in your body.
Wishing you all the best. <3
Hi! I am twelve years old and my mom got her period at the same age. I have a ton of discharge, wear pantyliners every day, and have unbearable cramps every day. I really want a “reason” for all this suffering lol. I desperatley want my period! Please tell me how to make it come sooner.
Hey Aysia,
This is a great question – and a common one at that!
While I wish puberty was predictable, it’s important to remember that you and your friends will all develop in very different ways and at very different times.
But don’t worry, your time is coming. :D
And when it does, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at info@lunette.com with any questions you may have.
We got you. <3
Heya Emily, Kadence, Lily, Sally & Jannah,
What an exciting time this is for all of you!!
Change is scary, we totally get that. But don’t worry, you GOT this. <3
And we got you. Just give us a shout at info@lunette.com with any questions you may have. Seriously, any.
Oh, and when it comes to drinking water – YES. Water is ALWAYS a good idea. For every body, every day. :D
im Scared
Hi im Emily im 9 almost 10 in may im haveing some blood on my discharge is that normal for ladies?Also should i drink lots of water during my period or no?
I have many symptoms, like cramps in my lower stomach. I started getting the discharge weeks ago, I think a few months. What does that mean? Am I close?
