Periods 101: The Basics Explained
What is a period?
Menarche is the official, medical name for a first menstrual period. Think of it as the body’s way of ringing a small bell to say, “Puberty has entered the chat.” While it can feel unexpected or awkward at first, a period is a normal and healthy sign that the body is growing and changing just as it should.
Timing: What’s Typical
Most girls get their first period between ages 9 and 15, with the average around age12. There is a lot of wiggle room here. Bodies follow their own schedules, influenced by genetics, nutrition, and overall health. Before that first period shows up, there are usually clues, such as breast development, growth spurts, and the appearance of body hair. This is part of the same story, just different chapters.
Period Products
There’s no one size fits all, and the choices can feel overwhelming.
When periods first start, flow is often light or just spotting. Pads are a great place to begin. From panty liners to thicker pads with wings or overnight coverage, there’s a pad for just about every situation. Pads are especially helpful early on, but they aren’t the only choice.
Tampons are another popular option. They’re discreet and safe to use at any point, even when you’re new to periods, though they can take a little practice. Check your box for an insert on helpful tips for insertion. Tampons come in different absorbencies and applicators, and starting with a light tampon and a plastic applicator is often easiest. Just remember to change them regularly to reduce the risk of toxic shock syndrome, which is rare but important to know about.
Menstrual cups collect blood inside the vagina and are reused throughout the day, with regular cleaning. Because these products use suction to stay in place, they take a bit of practice to master.
Period underwear is another newer option that absorbs blood without pads or tampons and is especially handy for lighter days.
There’s no “best” product, just what works best for you.
Let’s Talk Cramps
Menstrual cramps occur when the body releases a chemical called prostaglandins. These prostaglandins result in uterine contractions which aid in shedding the uterine lining. Lifestyle, stress, or some health conditions can also worsen cramping and period pain.
Most women experience mild to moderate cramping, back pain, and fatigue. If you are having pain that makes you miss school, work, or other activities, that is NOT NORMAL, and deserves medical attention.
Easy At-Home Remedies
Heat: Use a heating pad or warm bath to help relax your muscles
Movement: Light exercise or yoga help to decrease cramp intensity
Hydration: Drinking adequate water or herbal teas can help reduce bloating
Sleep: Aim for regular, consistent sleep - poor rest can increase pain sensitivity
Nutrition:
Foods shown to help: leafy greens, bananas, salmon, nuts, yogurt, berries, turmeric, ginger tea and omega-3 rich foods.
Limit high salt foods, sugary snacks, caffeine, and energy drinks
Mental health: The mood changes related to fluctuation in hormones can be just as difficult to deal with. Journaling, meditation, or mindfulness practices can help.
Over the Counter Medications
NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) reduce prostaglandin production, which can relieve cramping and heavy bleeding. It’s important to take at the first sign of bleeding/cramping. Dosing these medications a day before bleeding improves the effectiveness but can be tricky if your period isn’t predictable. It’s important to always take these medications with food.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol or Midol) are additional options.
When to Raise a Hand and Ask Questions
While variation is completely normal, a few situations deserve a closer look. If a period hasn’t started by age 15, or within about three years after breast development begins, it is a good idea to check in with a healthcare provider. Once periods start, very heavy bleeding (filling tampon/pad every 1-2 hours), intense pain, nausea, or dizziness that interferes with daily life, or cycles that come very frequently or rarely are cause for concern. Always tell your health care provider about a family history of endometriosis or PCOS. Problems using menstrual products are also worth discussing. When it comes to periods, it’s important to understand what is typical, noticing when something feels off, and knowing that there is always space to ask questions and get support.
About Women’s Health at Canyon Medical
Marybeth Wilson, FNP-BC, Kacie Lofrgan, FNP-BC, and Madi Cutler, PA-C, share a deep commitment to caring for females at every stage of life. Together, they bring decades of combined healthcare experience and a strong dedication to educating, supporting, and treating female specific health concerns. They are passionate advocates for informed, compassionate care and believe that no question or concern is ever too small. If there is anything they can help with, they welcome you to schedule an appointment by calling 435-750-5599.