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Period Basics

The Global Menstrual Health collective Terminology Action Group defines menstrual health as a ‘state of complete physical, mental and social well-being in relation to the menstrual cycle’ (Hennegan et al. 2021, p. 2).

 

It’s important to know the period basics so you can feel well informed and equipped with dealing with the new changes in your body. 

What is a period?

A period, formally known as ‘menarche’ or otherwise known as menstruation, is a term used to describe a regular bleed that occurs from the uterus and flows out of the vagina for a period of days.

When will I get my
first period?

Typically your first period occurs between the ages of 9 and 15 years old, but of course can happen anytime before or after this.

The average starting age is typically between 12 and 13, though this can also vary across different countries and ethnicities. If your periods have not begun by 16 or 17, you can see a doctor to understand why this may be.

Waiting for your first period can be stressful and confusing as you won’t necessarily know when it will come. To understand more about when your period may come, it is recommended you speak to your mother or other female family members, as your menstrual journey can often be similar to your female relatives.

What are the yellow/
white stains on my underwear?

You may start to notice some thin, white or yellow-like fluid in your underwear. This is known as vaginal fluid and typically happens roughly six months to one year before your period arrives.

It is important to take notice of this and perhaps be on the lookout from this point, as it is a key sign that your menstrual journey is close to beginning. 

What will my first period be like? 

Your first period will most likely be quite short with only a little bit of bleeding. Over time, your cycle will become more regular. For the first few days of your period, the bleeding may be heavier and then become lighter towards the last few days. The colour of the blood may vary from dark brown or red to bright red or pink - this is normal.

It is important to speak to trusted adults, family and friends for support and advice on how to navigate this experience as it can be quite confusing and perhaps a little bit daunting - which again, is very normal! 

How should I prepare?

Just before or even after getting your period, you may feel quite overwhelmed and this is okay. 

We recommend reading this fantastic Clue article titled ‘Advice to my 13 year old self’. Author Erica Avey discusses how confusing it can be when you get your first period and shares some wonderful coping strategies that you could use.

How often will I get
my period?

At the start of your menstrual journey, it can take some time for your period to regulate, meaning you may have a period more often than the average menstruator. Most menstruators will have a period every 28 to 35 days, though this will vary for each person.

Each period may last between four to eight days, involving a loss of approximately one third of a cup of blood. The average menstruator will have between 450 and 500 periods during their life.

References and Resources

Clue. (2021, February). Puberty 101: The Clue guide to getting your period (Part 1)
https://helloclue.com/articles/life-stages/puberty-101-clue-guide-to-getting-your-period-part-1

Clue. (2021, February). Puberty 101: The Clue guide to getting your period (Part 2)
https://helloclue.com/articles/life-stages/puberty-101-clue-guide-to-getting-your-period-part-2

Clue. (2019, July). When will I get my first period?
https://helloclue.com/articles/life-stages/when-will-i-get-my-first-period

Clue. (2017, February). When does menstruation begin?
https://helloclue.com/articles/life-stages/when-does-menstruation-begin

Clue. (2017, February). Advice to my 13-year-old self (and 6 tips for navigating puberty)
https://helloclue.com/articles/life-stages/advice-to-my-13-year-old-self-6-tips-for-navigating-puberty

Family Planning NSW. (2018, June). Menstrual Cycle (Periods) factsheet. 
https://www.fpnsw.org.au/sites/default/files/assets/Factsheet_MenstrualCycle_201806.pdf

Healthdirect. (2020, June). Menstruation (periods).
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/menstruation

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