Some women believe getting your first period is the right of passage into womanhood. It is an exciting time in your life but it may also be intimidating as well. Almost every woman in her teenage years gets their first period, so you are not alone. At one point, your mom was in the same shoes as you. You will be surprised at how supportive and understanding she may be when you get your first period. After all, she had her first period at one time too. Being prepared for your first period will help make the transition into having your monthly menstrual cycle a lot less nerve-wracking.
When will you get your first period?
The truth is, every girl starts puberty and gets their period at a different age. So no one can say the exact age you will get your first menstrual period. However, some girls start their period as early as eight and as late as 14. For most girls, their period starts two years after she starts puberty. So if you have reached your 16th birthday and haven’t had your period talk to your doctor.
Common signs and symptoms of a first period
AcneAs you go through puberty, you may start to notice acne. This is because puberty causes changes in your hormones. As a result, the pores on your face get blocked from the overproduction of oils, causing pimples and zits. Most people outgrow acne by their late teens. The peak of acne usually occurs between the ages of 14 and 19.
BloatingBloating is a very common symptom indicating your period is about to come. Bloating often gives you a full in your belly and swelling in your lower abdomen. Bloating usually occurs a week before your period. It usually goes away within the first few days of your period.
CrampsA couple of days before your first period you may notice your lower belly ache. It can vary from a mild, dull, and sharp pain. Cramping can be bothersome and painful; however, there are many things you can do to manage the symptoms of cramping.
FatigueThe week leading up to your period, your hormones estrogen and progesterone start to decline. This decline is linked to the decrease in serotonin. Serotonin is a chemical in your brain that affects your mood. When your hormone levels drop, it can cause an energy reduction. As a result, you may feel more tired and sluggish.
MoodyLike how estrogen and serotonin affect your energy level, it also affects your mood. The decline in these hormones can send you on an emotional roller coaster. But, don’t worry, most girls notice a decrease in mood swings a few days after their period starts.
How do I tell my mom I got my period?
Getting your period for the first time may come as a surprise. A lot of emotions and fears start running through your mind. The truth is, your mom probably went through the experience of having her first period. She may relate to you more than you think. It is important to take a deep breath and remember that you are not the only girl with periods.
Tips on how to get the conversation started:
Set a date to have a conversation with your mom
Perhaps being prepared to have the conversation might help ease your feelings. Setting a date to have a conversation with your mom will ensure there are no distractions. Let your mom know that you have something you want to talk about that is uncomfortable or embarrassing for you. When you talk to her, make sure you plan out enough time to talk openly about your feelings and fears.
Write it down for her - to perhaps minimize awkward feelings
Maybe you are not ready to have a face-to-face conversation with your mom about your first period. Writing it down in a letter to give to her might help introduce the conversation in a different way.
Ask your mom about her first period
Your mom was in your shoes once when she was your age. Ask your mom to share her story with you of when she started her first period. Ask her to share how she told her mom she started her period. Making a connection might help you open up to your mom about your first period. You might be surprised by what she has to say and her experience when she was in your shoes.
Relax and try not to stress
No matter how difficult the conversation may feel for you, it is important to tell your mom how you feel. There are a lot of changes that happen to your body and getting support from someone you trust is important. Be prepared for your conversation, write notes down on paper, or write a letter that may help relieve your anxiety and have a better conversation. It’s okay to feel vulnerable, but know you are not alone.
Tips to help you get prepared for your first period
Period Kit
This may be one of the most exciting things to do when preparing for your first period. Creating your first-period kit will be a great experience to do with your mom. It may also help facilitate the conversation with your mom by having her help you get prepared. So grab a cute small bag you can use as your period kit. Keep this period kit close by because your period may sneak up on you.
Things to keep in your period bag
- A pair of period underwear.
- Disposable heating patches
- Travel size acne pads
Period Underwear
Proof Period underwear is perfect to use on your period. It comes in a variety of colors and styles. They are invisible under clothes and provide all-day protection. Period underwear has no toxic chemicals, fights odors, and is leak-proof. The variety of styles will help you feel comfortable and confident throughout your period. The best part of this underwear is zero waste. Wear and throw in the wash and then wear again.
Heating patches
More than 80% of women experience cramping during their period. Fortunately, science has come a long way in helping women with cramps. Heating patches are small enough to keep in your period bag and need no microwave. Simply unwrap and the heating patch is air-activated for up to 140 degrees temperature.
Getting ready for the next chapter of your life doesn’t have to be scary. With the right tools and support, you will be on your way to womanhood. It is important to have a support system to talk to openly about your fears or what to expect. In addition, being prepared with a period bag with all your essentials will ensure that you have everything you need when your period starts.
