First Periods: What to Expect?
Girls are experiencing their first periods increasingly earlier worldwide: at 10 years old or even 8 for some of them. Often, they are not yet prepared for it. While teenagers aged 13 or 14 are ready for it, younger girls don’t always know it exists. It is therefore important to inform them relatively early so they can welcome this event in the best way.
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What Do First Menstruations Look Like?
The first time you get your period, it can be hard to notice. Indeed, the flow is often light and the blood color is sometimes very dark, which makes it harder to identify. But there’s really no doubt: it can’t be anything else!
Are First Periods Painful?
Generally no, but exceptions are always possible. That’s why first periods always come as a surprise. No premenstrual syndrome or lower belly pain to signal the start!
The first pains will come once the menstrual cycle is well established. With regularity, various period-related aches may appear: uterine cramps, headaches, digestive issues, or breast tenderness.
Talking to Parents…
Ideally, periods should not be seen as a problem or a taboo. Talking openly with family (parents, siblings, friends…) is the best approach. Having periods is a natural physiological phenomenon that all women experience. There is no embarrassment or shame to feel: period blood is not dirty.
It is important that parents are informed fairly quickly for health reasons, support, and practical matters. For example, they can add appropriate hygiene products to their shopping list.
Preparing for Your First Period
From the age of 8, it’s good to start learning about the menstrual cycle: to know it, understand it, and anticipate it.
If the first period arrives during the day, at school or middle school… don’t panic! Since the initial flow is light, it shouldn’t cause “logistical” problems. Ideally, have a small first period kit in your bag, but you can also manage with what you have: placing a few folded toilet paper sheets at the bottom of your underwear, or a handkerchief, can hold you until evening when you can choose more suitable solutions. Talking to the teacher or school nurse is also a good option.
Regarding protection, it’s best to make a thoughtful choice beforehand. Today, several alternatives exist, such as menstrual panties, washable pads, or other chemical-free products. Tampons and disposable pads are no longer the only default options!
For first periods, the best protection is both practical and comfortable. Menstrual panties are especially suitable for young girls: no more fear of having to change during class, they can be worn for up to 12 hours, avoiding trips to the school bathroom!
Bonus: they are also extremely effective and comfortable: no leaks, no discomfort during PE classes. Among the most popular models, the menstrual shorty is ideal: its reassuring cut offers excellent support and remains perfectly invisible under clothes.
By Emilie
