First Period: 3 Signs Your Period is Coming

First Period: 3 Signs Your Period is Coming

First Period Symptoms? Learn how to read and understand these signs! Here are 3 helpful tips to get ready for this special time!

Although a lot of girls get their first period between 11 and 13 years old, you could get yours anywhere between 9 and 16. Everyone has her own “biological clock,” and yours is different from anyone else's. So even if you feel like you'll never get your period, don't worry, you will! How do you know it’s on its way? Watch for these signs.

First Period Symptoms

Puberty in itself is a big sign that your first period’s on its way. Here are a few to look out for, too:

Developing breast "buds": It can take three to four years for your breasts to then fully develop, but you can expect your period about two years after your breasts start developing.
Growing pubic hair: Just after your breasts start to form, you'll probably start growing pubic hair. It will be soft and thin at first, but it’ll get coarser over time. Your period usually arrives around one to two years after.
Discharge: Vaginal discharge (white or yellowish fluid) is usually a sure sign that your first period is on its way. You may want to start using ALWAYS pantiliners to protect your underwear. Your period should start in the next few months! You will find out more information about vaginal discharge in our article Vaginal discharge: Icky but Amazing.

In addition to these body changes, you can also ask your mom when she started her period. It’s likely that you’ll get your first period within a year or so of when she got hers. Plus, it’s a good time to have a conversation with your mom about all the changes you’re experiencing. She can also help you find the right products.

Period Emergency kit: Preparing for Your First Period

Since you never know when your first period will arrive, it’s a great idea to be ready. Here are some ideas:

Prepare an emergency kit containing a pantiliner, pad and clean underwear in a discreet bag
Keep a pantiliner or pad in your book bag or purse
In an emergency, toilet paper can work until you can get a pantiliner or pad
Ask a friend, school nurse or teacher for help — most schools keep extra pantiliners or pads for exactly this reason!

Resource:
We've partnered with Girlology to offer a FREE download of their ebook, "You Got IT." This 30 page ebook, available as a PDF, offers tips to help girls face their periods with confidence. Register for the free download here: https://www.girlology.com/access-free-book

Source:
Always Changing puberty education booklet. Holmes and Hutchinson. Girlology's There's something new about you.