When Should A Girl Get Her Period

Reusable Washable Cloth Menstrual Pads

Lunas Period Starter Kit Set- 4 Reusable Washable Menstrual Cloth Pads is a great gift for girls who are environmentally conscious. This first period kit includes four reusable cloth period pads and one waterproof wet bag. Lunas cloth pads are made of four layers: first layer 100% antibacterial absorbent bamboo fiber, two layers of microfiber in the middle and 1 layer of 100% polyester waterproof PUL. The wet bag is made of 100% waterproof polyester and is the perfect size for carrying a few menstrual pads, period cups.

I was 13 years old when I got my first period, says 21 year old Jacky in 20 Girls Get Real About Getting Their First Period. I remember seeing stains in my underwear when I woke up that were too close to the front to be poop stains. I called for my mom. She explained that I had just started my period. I was confused and scared because I didnt know what that meant and wondered what was happening to my body. Soon after, my middle school had a Sex-Ed class and I found out why periods exist.

Wegreecos Bamboo Reusable Sanitary Pads are another good gift for girls on their first period.

Many women prefer reusable and washable menstrual pads because they are:

• Healthier for women and girls than disposable tampons and sanitary pads
• Less expensive than disposable pads and tampons
• More environmentally friendly than tampons and pads
• More comfortable than disposable menstrual pads
• Superior at leakage protection during periods

Myth: Pubic Hair Signals The Onset Of Puberty

The reality is that without breast or testicular enlargement, pubic hair and body odor indicate increasing adrenal secretion of weak androgens rather than activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal unit . Before 1997, premature adrenarche was defined as pubic hair developing in girls younger than 8 years old and boys younger than 9 years. However, the results of a large, cross-sectional study suggest that the development of pubic hair may be normal in white girls as young as 7 years and in African American girls as young as 6 years.

Although the definition of normal puberty, as compared with premature, remains in flux, unquestionably early pubarche is likely to be benign if it meets the criteria in the box. If these criteria are met, then for most children a diagnostic workup can be limited to continued observation. Some physicians order an x-ray film to check that the skeletal age of the child is no more than 2.5 standard deviations above the chronologic age. An abdominal ultrasound scan or blood tests for dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, and testosterone are rarely needed.

When Should Early Puberty For Girls Be Cause For Concern

Parents sometimes worry their young daughters may be starting their periods or developing breasts too early. Womens health expert Dr. Kirtly Parker Jones reminds us what puberty is and when it normally occurs for young girls. She also talks about when parents should consult a pediatrician if they’re concerned, what conditions or activities are commonly associated with early puberty, and what parents can do for their daughters to make sure they stay healthy during puberty.

Well, puberty is when the sleeping gonads, ovaries, and testicles of boys and girls wake up to begin the coordinated development of sexual tissues. In girls, it begins with breast development called thelarche, followed closely by pubic hair called pubarche. And about two years after the beginning of breast development in the normal pubertal process, the first menstrual period starts, menarche. This waking up of the sleeping gonads is preceded by a year or two by the maturing of the adrenal glands called adrenarche. All of our lovely developing arches, I’m waiting for an arche to name the start of the development of the mature brain.

But, you know, 13, 12 is not such a big deal, but to think of it a different way, the percent of US girls who’ve had their first period by age 10 was zero for girls born in the ’20s and is 2% to 3% for girls born in 1980.

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How Does Ovulation Relate To Periods

Ovulation is the release of an egg from the ovaries. The same hormones that cause the uterus lining to build up also cause an egg to leave one of the ovaries. The egg travels through a thin tube called a fallopian tube to the uterus.

If the egg is fertilized by a sperm cell, it attaches to the wall of the uterus, where over time it develops into a baby. If the egg is not fertilized, the uterus lining breaks down and bleeds, causing a period.

When Do Most Girls Get Their Period

Most girls get their first period when they’re around 12. But getting it any time between age 10 and 15 is OK. Every girl’s body has its own schedule.

There isn’t one right age for a girl to get her period. But there are some clues that it will start soon:

• Most of the time, a girl gets her period about 2 years after her breasts start to develop.
• Another sign is vaginal discharge fluid that a girl might see or feel on her underwear. This discharge usually begins about 6 months to a year before a girl gets her first period.

Also Check: Why Do I Get Headaches During My Period

Gifts And Ideas For A Girl On Her First Period

Talking openly and honestly about the highs and lows of menstruation is one of the best gifts you can give a girl. That way, her first period wont be as shocking or scary. These gifts will help you have an honest discussion with your girl about menstruation and menstrual cycles. Talking will help ensure that your girl doesnt feel the same fear and confusion I experienced the day I got my first period. That in itself is a good gift for girls getting their first periods!

Spotting Vs Period Symptoms And Signs

Spotting refers to very light vaginal bleeding or brown discharge that occurs between menstrual periods. The menstrual period refers to the monthly vaginal bleeding that is experienced by women of reproductive age . Most women know that their period is approaching.

Similar signs and symptoms of periods and spotting include bloating and cramps in the pelvic area. Signs and symptoms of spotting that are different from periods include slight weight gain and tender breasts. Signs and symptoms of periods that do not occur in spotting include pain and/or burning during sex or while urination and vaginal redness, itching, or discharge.

Also Check: Can I Get Pregnant A Week Before My Period

When Should I Call The Doctor

Most girls don’t have any problems with their periods. But call your doctor if your daughter:

• is 15 and does not have her period
• started developing breasts more than 3 years ago and does not have her period
• is more than 2 years from her first period and her periods still do not come every 36 weeks
• has severe cramps, not relieved by ibuprofen or naproxen
• has very heavy bleeding
• has severe PMS that gets in the way of her everyday activities

How Much Do I Need To Tell Her

Everything she needs to know to allow her to manage her periods and in the not-too-distant future birth control and sex as well. She will need to know how all the pieces of the puzzle fit together.

• reassure your daughter that starting her periods is a natural part of growing up and that millions of women have periods
• make periods feel normal by sharing any first-hand experience or knowledge you may have. Explain that everyone has a different period experience its just another thing that makes us unique
• give her an overview of what to expect. For example, introduce the signs of periods, including cramps and other symptoms of

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How Can I Keep Track Of My Menstrual Cycle

You can keep track of your menstrual cycle by marking the day you start your period on a calendar. After a few months, you can begin to see if your periods are regular or if your cycles are different each month.

You may want to track:

• Premenstrual syndrome symptoms: Did you have cramping, headaches, moodiness, forgetfulness, bloating, or breast tenderness?
• When your bleeding begins: Was it earlier or later than expected?
• How heavy the bleeding was on your heaviest days: Was the bleeding heavier or lighter than usual? How many pads or tampons did you use?
• Period symptoms: Did you have pain or bleeding on any days that caused you to miss work or school?
• How many days your period lasted: Was your period shorter or longer than the month before?

You can also download apps for your phone to track your periods. Some include features to track your PMS symptoms, energy and activity levels, and more.

Path To Improved Well Being

The changes associated with puberty can be difficult. Many girls anxiously await the opportunity to wear a bra for the first time or think about becoming a mom in the future. All other changes, such as your daughters first period or changes to her size can be scary. Break it down for your daughter by explaining the stages of puberty that will affect her physically and emotionally.

Girls begin puberty at different ages. It can start as early as age 9. By age 15, most girls have fully developed. Its during these years that both her body and her emotions will change.

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Chocolate The Gift Every Girl Needs On Their First Period

Nostalgias Indoor Electric Stainless Steel Smores Maker is the most comforting, fun gift you could give a girl getting her period especially for the first time.

Campfires and smores are warm, happy memories for many girls. Getting her first period is a step into womanhood, and a step away from childhood. Yes, its exciting.but its also kinda sad. An indoor electric smores maker will bring happy memories and warm feelings. Plus, chocolate. Marshmallows. Graham wafers! Need I say more?

Can I Swim And Exercise When Im Having My Period

Theres nothing to stop you doing everything you usually do. Tampons, menstrual cups and waterproof period pants are the go-to items for swimming, and theyre also the most discreet choice for playing sport. Pads can also work for non-pool activities.

With a bit of experimenting, youll work out whats most comfortable and practical for you.

Read Also: How Soon After Missed Period Should You Test

What Are The Signs Of An Abnormal Period And When Should We Talk To Our Pediatrician

Abnormal periods can be caused by everything from lifestyle factors such as stress and exercise levels to underlying medical conditions such as a bleeding disorder or hormonal abnormalities. It can take a few years for the menstrual cycle to stabilize, so it might not be obvious right away if your child is experiencing abnormal periods, but there are some signs that you can watch out for.

Make an appointment for your child to see their pediatrician if you observe any of the following:

• Reaching the age of 15 without having a period
• Having a period before the age of 8
• Experiencing irregular cycles more than two years after starting their period
• Experiencing very heavy bleeding or severe cramps that dont improve with painkillers
• Having very long periods
• Experiencing severe PMS symptoms that make it hard for your child to get through their day

These symptoms dont necessarily indicate that anything is wrong, but its good to speak with a healthcare provider just to make sure. A healthcare provider can help you and your child determine what next steps need to be taken to ensure their health and wellbeing.

If your child also has other types of bleeding such as nosebleeds, frequent gum bleeding, easy bruising or bleeding after tooth extraction or surgery, or any family history of bleeding, you may want to discuss with your pediatrician whether testing for an inherited or acquired bleeding disorder is needed.

How Early Is Too Early To Start Menstruating When Is Too Old

While the average adolescent will get their first period sometime between the ages of 10 and 15, having an earlier or later first period is not necessarily a sign that something is wrong. Some children may have their first period when they are just 8 or 9 years old. Similarly, some people might not get their period until they are 15 or 16, especially if other female family members were late bloomers. Children usually have their first periods about two to three years after their breasts begin to develop and between six to 12 months after they begin to experience vaginal discharge these can be helpful signs to watch out for if you are concerned whether your child is too old or too young to be experiencing their first period.

If your child begins to show signs of puberty before about the age of 8, such as developing breast buds, make sure you help them understand the changes in their body, and consider making a visit to your pediatrician. Your child may be experiencing early puberty, and a healthcare provider can help you determine whether or not there is anything to be concerned about. Similarly, if your child has reached age 15 and has not yet begun their period, consider making an appointment. Factors such as weight , stress levels and exercise frequency and intensity can influence when a child begins their menstrual cycle.

Recommended Reading: Can You Get Pregnant 5 Days After Your Period

Whats Best Pads Or Tampons

Thats up to you. At first, you may find pads easier. But after a while, you may find other types of period products more convenient and better for different occasions such as at night or when youre playing sport or for different levels of flow.

It may take a while to work out what suits your lifestyle and makes you feel most comfortable. There are no rules for period products and you can mix and match. For example, you could use a tampon for swimming or during the day, then a pad at night. Its up to you.

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How Do I Know If Im Ovulating

A few days before you ovulate, your vaginal mucus or discharge changes and becomes more slippery and clear. This type of mucus helps sperm move up into your uterus and into the fallopian tubes where it can fertilize an egg. Some women feel minor cramping on one side of their pelvic area when they ovulate. Some women have other signs of ovulation.

Luteinizing hormone is a hormone released by your brain that tells the ovary to release an egg . LH levels begin to surge upward about 36 hours before ovulation, so some women and their doctors test for LH levels. LH levels peak about 12 hours before ovulation.1 Women who are tracking ovulation to become pregnant will notice a slight rise in their basal temperature around ovulation. Learn more about tracking ovulation to become pregnant.

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Can Stress Cause Periods To Start Earlier

Chronic stress may also be linked to kick-starting puberty early. Chronic stress is perceived by the brain as a low-grade threat, which triggers the brain to start reproduction.

Say whaaaaat?

So, youre saying my older sibling needs to stop stressing me out or else Ill start my period sooner?

Not exactly. Chronic stress isnt the same kind of stress thats related to homework or friends . While these things could play a part, chronic stress is when you feel pressured and overwhelmed for a long time. Something like your parents going through a divorce might be a trigger for chronic stress. If youre going through something difficult or experienced something traumatic, harmful or abusive, always speak with someone you trust like a parent, teacher, or counsellor. You never have to suffer alone, no matter what youre going throughchronic stress or not.

Hey parents/guardians! Make sure you always have an open line of communication with your children. If you think something might be wrong, ask! Create a safe space where your child feels comfortable voicing their concerns and feeling heard.

Will Exercise Stop My Period

Being active can cause menstrual abnormalities, but it takes a lot of very intense exercise. Usually, only women who compete professionally experience changes in their periods. Why this happens isn’t clearly understood, but is likely a combination of extreme exercise, an increase in lean body mass, not eating enough or getting the proper nutrients, and stress related to competition.

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A First Period Kit To Help Your Girl Ease Into Menstruation

The First Period Gift Kit with all-natural pads will help a girl deal with the practical issues of menstruating when shes at school, playing sports, or hanging out with her friends.

To this First Period Gift Kit Id add:

• Summers Eve Cleansing Feminine Wash, female hygiene wipes or baby wipes
• Menstrual Leakproof Panties they dont sound pretty, but it is a HUGE comfort to know youre wearing undies that wont leak! Especially when youre not used to getting your period.

Menstruating for the first time is both exciting and scary, isnt it? After all, its the first time blood comes out of a girls body without her needing to call her mom for a band-aid or an ambulance for a trip to the emergency room. Giving girls gifts when they start their periods tells them that menstruation is normal, good, and healthy. A menstrual cycle is a gift, partly because its a reliable signal of how healthy or unhealthy her body is.