Signs of Your First Period: Understanding the Early Indications
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The first period is a milestone in the journey of growing up. Waiting for this phase can be a mix of excitement, curiosity, and maybe a bit of nervousness. You may be worried about how it will feel the first time, how to deal with period cramps and the fear of menstrual blood staining your clothes by surprise at school. But don’t worry! We’re here to help you understand the signs of your first period to help you feel comfortable and prepared.
physical signs your first period is coming
common premenstrual symptoms
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a phase that you may experience one to two weeks before your first menstruation and future periods. It's a combination of physical and emotional symptoms caused by hormonal changes in your body (estrogen and progesterone), and these are all normal.
So, what are the signs of your first period? Physical signs can be the most obvious and primary hint that your period might be on its way. Think of these as your body's way of giving you a heads-up! You might experience a mix of the following physical PMS symptoms:
breast buds - One of the earliest physical signs you may notice are your breast buds, which are small, disc-shaped lumps under the nipple. This may come with tenderness or a swollen feeling in your chest, signaling that your menstrual cycle is already gearing up! This tenderness can be a bit uncomfortable but is totally normal. One of your breasts may also start growing over the other, but it is nothing to worry about, and this usually evens out over time!
menstrual cramps or period pain - These can happen as a result of the contractions in your uterus while shedding its uterine lining. Period pain can range from mild to “please let me curl up in a ball” intensity. Painful periods might be a common experience, but they're usually manageable with the right care. A hot water bottle or a warm bath usually does the trick!
pubic hair - Yup, your body could be growing hair in new places. It's all part of puberty and your body getting ready for menstruation.
skin changes - Hormonal changes can also lead to breakouts or oily skin. Acne can pop up anytime, but it’s just another sign that your body is adjusting. Keeping a good skincare routine can help keep things in check.
increased appetite - Have you ever felt like you could eat an entire pizza by yourself? PMS symptoms also include an increase in appetite, especially for comfort foods. It's totally okay to indulge a little, but remember to balance it with healthy food!
changes in discharge and other body signals
Another early sign is a change in your vaginal discharge. It might become thicker or change color as your body prepares for your first menstrual period. This is one of the more subtle signs but a good signal that your period is around the corner. Along with this, you should also keep an eye on other body signals like the following:
growth spurts and weight gain - Puberty often comes with sudden growth spurts and changes in your body shape. If you've been experiencing these, your period might not be far behind.
back pain - Lower back pain can sometimes be a part of the signs of an upcoming period. It certainly isn't pleasant, but stretching exercises and warm compresses can provide some quick relief.
bloating - Feeling a bit puffed up? Bloating on your belly is another common premenstrual symptom that may show up before your first period. Staying hydrated and reducing salty foods in your diet can help manage this.
emotional and mental changes
mood swings and emotional fluctuations
Experiencing your first period often comes with an emotional rollercoaster because of the changes brought by our hormones. Mood swings can make you laugh at a meme one minute and then cry over a cute puppy video the next, which is perfectly normal! Everything might feel more intense, from music to movies to daily conversations. Irritability and anxiety may also creep in, making you feel on the edge.
Practicing mindfulness or talking to someone can help. While it's important to embrace these mood changes, it's important to control them at times, especially when we're dealing with other people. Sleep disturbances are also common, so maintaining a regular sleep routine and avoiding screens before bed can improve sleep quality.
How to Manage Stress and Anxiety During This Time
Periods can bring a fair share of anxiety and stress, especially the first one. Here are some tips to keep calm and carry on with your day:
practice self-care - This can be anything from giving yourself a warm bath to a good book or doing a favorite hobby. Give yourself time to relax. Engage in activities that make you happy and at ease.
talk about it - Don't keep your worries bottled up. Chat with friends or a trusted adult about what you've been feeling. Some of them have been there and can offer support and advice. Sometimes, just sharing your thoughts can lighten the emotional load.
stay active - Exercise can boost your mood and help manage cramps. Gentle stretches and short walks can already make a huge difference. This is because physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters!
keep a balanced diet - Eating a balanced diet can help manage PMS symptoms. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your meals. Avoid too much caffeine and sugary snacks, as they can worsen your mood changes.
stay hydrated - Drinking plenty of water can help reduce bloating, reduce cravings, and keep you feeling good overall!
preparing for your first period
essential items to have on hand
Getting ready for your first period is all about being prepared. Stock up on a variety of period products – if you're looking for a comfortable, discreet, and leakproof option, teen period underwear is the best choice. Thinx Teens is designed to absorb all varieties of menstrual flow for teens, from mild to heavy. It's comfortable like your regular underwear, easy to wash, and reusable too. They also come in different styles and can provide period protection for up to 12 hours, which can be hard to achieve for most traditional period products.
Apart from your main period product, keep some pain relievers handy for those menstrual cramps. Comfort items like a heating pad or a warm water bottle can also help lessen the pain. To make sure you're always prepared, having a small period kit with these essentials can be useful, especially if your period starts unexpectedly while you’re at school or places other than home.
how to talk to a trusted adult about your period
Talking to a trusted adult about your period might feel a bit awkward, but it’s important for getting useful advice and support. Be honest and straightforward many adults have been through it and will understand. You can always start by saying, "I've noticed some changes in my body, and I think my period might be coming."
Don’t hesitate to ask questions about anything confusing or worrying you, be it about period symptoms or your menstrual cycle in general. If you’re comfortable, you can also talk to a healthcare provider for professional advice. Additionally, there are plenty of books and websites that can provide extra information, helping you feel more prepared.
what to expect during your first period
duration and flow variations
How long does your first period last? Your first period may be a bit unpredictable, lasting anywhere from 2 to 7 days with varying flow. Irregular periods are also common, especially in the beginning, so don't worry if it's not yet consistent in the first few months. Your menstrual flow can vary from cycle to cycle, with some months being lighter or heavier than others. This is why it's important to keep track of your menstrual cycle so you can notice any patterns.
Now, what does your first period look like? It can start with light spotting with reddish brown discharge, which is a completely normal sign. As your body gets into the rhythm, you might experience a heavier flow of a brighter red color for a few days. It's important to use the right period products to manage this.
tips for staying comfortable and confident
Staying comfortable and confident during your first period is all about preparation and the right mindset. Here are extra tips that can make you feel comfortable and confident in your first period:
Wear comfy clothing - Comfy and loose clothes can make you feel more at ease, especially if you're dealing with period cramps or feeling bloated. Choose soft fabrics that don’t irritate your skin and darker colors that can easily hide period stains in case you experience period leaks.
stay hydrated and eat well - Drinking plenty of water and eating a healthy, balanced diet can help manage PMS symptoms and keep your energy levels high. Make sure to include iron-rich foods to replenish any lost iron and other nutrients during your period. Good foods for your period are lean meats, spinach, and lentils.
use period products that work for you - Whether it's period underwear, sanitary pads, tampons, or menstrual cups, use whatever makes you feel most comfortable and confident. Don’t be afraid to try different options that work best for you!
keep track of your period - Consider using a period app to monitor your cycle and predict when your next period might come. This can also help you identify the patterns in your menstrual cycle.
Understanding the signs of your first period can help you feel more prepared and confident as you approach this phase. Recognizing physical changes like breast buds, pubic hair, and changes in discharge, along with emotional fluctuations, can help you understand the process better. Remember, it's perfectly normal to experience a range of symptoms before your first period, and staying informed can make the transition smoother!
For more tips and supportive period products, visit Thinx and explore our range ofperiod underwear, and Thinx for All Leaks, which offers reliable protection for unexpected bladder leaks. By staying prepared and informed, you can confidently navigate your first period and beyond.
sources
Planned Parenthood. What’s a Period? https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/teens/puberty/whats-periods
Cleveland Clinic. PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24288-pms-premenstrual-syndrome
Healthy Children. Physical Development in Girls: What to Expect. https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/gradeschool/puberty/Pages/Physical-Development-Girls-What-to-Expect.aspx