Most people get their first period at around 12, and usually it's just a red or brown stain on your underwear. Over the whole period you lose about 1 to 5 tablespoons of blood, even if it looks like more. Feeling nervous about it is normal.
When will it start?
Everyone's timing is different, usually anywhere from 8 to 17, so starting before or after your friends is common. Most often, periods start 2 to 3 years after your breasts begin to grow. About 6 to 12 months before, a whitish discharge a bit like mucus usually appears on your underwear: your cue to pack a pad.
What will it be like?
First periods are often very light and over within a few days. After that, periods usually last 2 to 7 days and are heaviest on the first 2 days. Brown is normal too, especially when the flow is light.
For the first 2 or 3 years, sometimes longer, your cycle can be irregular. In teens, 9 out of 10 cycles last between 21 and 45 days, and that's normal: your body is still settling in. Mark the first day of each period in your calendar, so it's easier to spot your own rhythm.
What should I pack?
Put together a small pouch: a couple of pads, spare underwear, some wipes and a bag for anything stained. At home, unwrap a pad and stick it onto some underwear so you know how it holds. With a kit in your bag, waiting feels calmer, because whatever happens, you've got what you need.
What if it starts at school?
There's usually only a little blood the first time, so you'll most likely notice before anything shows through. If you don't have a pad, fold some toilet paper into a thick strip and put it in your underwear. It won't last long, but it will get you to the school nurse or a friend.
You can ask the school nurse, a teacher or a friend: "My period's started and I don't have a pad." If blood gets on your clothes, tie a jumper around your waist and rinse the stain in cold water as soon as you can. Almost everyone leaks at least once, so you're in good company.
How do I tell Mum or Dad?
One sentence is enough: "My period's started, can you help me get some pads?" You can tell your mum, dad, grandma, big sister or the school nurse. Feeling shy is normal, but let at least one adult know so they can help you quickly.
Common questions
Does it hurt?
Some people feel nothing at all, others get an ache low in the tummy or back, and that's common. A hot water bottle wrapped in a towel, a warm shower and a gentle walk all help. If you take a painkiller like ibuprofen or paracetamol, follow the label and check with an adult first.
Can I use a tampon straight away?
Yes, tampons and cups are safe from your very first period, though pads are easier to start with. A tampon can't get lost inside you, and using one doesn't affect your virginity. Change it every 4 to 8 hours and never leave it in for longer than 8.
Can I hold it in, like a wee?
No, and it doesn't mean anything is wrong with you. Your bladder has a ring of muscle that holds wee in. The vagina doesn't have one, so period blood comes out slowly on its own.
In short
- Put a pad and spare underwear in your bag today
- Mark the first day of each period to see your rhythm
- Tell at least one adult, even by text
Source: NHS: Starting your periods
Educational content; it does not replace professional medical advice.