What to do When You Get Your Periods?
So, you’re finally going to be a big girl! Getting your first period is an important milestone of growing up and as intimidating as it can get, your first period doesn’t have to get you all worked up. We’re here to help you prepare in advance with relevant information, primarily knowing what to do when you start your period and during your period. Talking to your mum, sister or a friend who has already gotten her period will help you deal better with these days. You may not realize it yet but understanding your hormonal and body changes is just as important as these contribute to helping you maintain your self-confidence.
How to prepare for my first period?
There’s no way of knowing exactly when you’ll start your period. So, be ready for a little surprise - a surprise you can easily prepare for. There’s nothing specific you need to do to arrange for your first period except having menstrual products handy. So, keep your kit ready with you, wherever you go. A few sanitary pads are all you need.
What will my first period feel like?
This may vary from one person to the other. Some may find the first period has literally flown past with very little in terms of symptoms, while some others may experience a considerable amount of discomfort. Common symptoms especially during the first day of the period include –
- Cramps in the lower abdomen
- Lower backache
- Breast tenderness
- Dizziness
- Diarrhoea or nausea
However, most of these symptoms do not last long, and there is no reason to panic. A few home remedies or an over-the-counter pill can offer great relief. Some of these symptoms could also help you know when your period will come.
What should I do when my period comes?
Is there any way for others to know I got my period? No, not unless you tell them! So be sure to tell your mum, a close friend, or a trusted adult when you get your first period. If it’s in school, inform your teacher. Next, just so you do not struggle to find one when your period starts, keep a few sanitary pads handy, like the Whisper Ultra Clean. With its delightful scent and a soft dri-weave cover, it locks upto 100% wetness and odours.Feminine hygiene products including sanitary pads, tampons, and menstrual cups offer wide choices for you. It will be until a few months or even a few years for you to get a hang of what suits you.
- How to use a sanitary pad?
Disposable sanitary pads have an adhesive backing. Peel off the paper and stick the pad on your underwear. If there are wings, peel off the paper and fold them over the sides of your underwear. Pads should always be disposed of in the bin, and never flushed down the toilet. Ensure you change your pad every 4-6 hours, depending on the flow of the blood to avoid rashes and allergic reactions.
How long will my first period last?
Your first period will last for anywhere between 2-7 days. It may be very light with just some spotting, or for some, it might be on the heavier side, but there is nothing to worry about either way.
What to do during periods?
As overwhelming as it sounds, your first period need not be a deterrent to your activities. Some amount of timidness may creep in as you are still adapting to this change. But that should not stop you from going on with your life. Periods are a very natural part of growing up & are a cause of celebration rather than worry. In case of any discomfort, some amount of rest and a healthy diet will help you. You can always talk to a trusted adult if you have any confusion.
How to track my period?
During the initial months, your period will likely be irregular, which is perfectly normal
You may want to mark on a calendar when you get your first period or maintain apps on your mobile phone that help track your dates. Once your period becomes regular, it will come about every 28-30 days. Tracking helps understand your menstruation cycle and be prepared for the next month's period. During the initial months, your period will likely be irregular, which is perfectly normal. In due course, it will settle into a regular cycle once your body adapts to the hormonal changes.
Will the first period pose any problems?
There is no particular problem to watch out for and most girls don't face any with their first period. But you must seek medical advice if you
- Have had your period for more than two years and are still not regular.
- Have bleeding between periods
- Experience severe cramps that don't seem to get better
- Have very heavy bleeding or longer period of more than a week
Now that you know what to do when you start your first period, you can embrace this exciting event with extra confidence. But above all, congratulations on taking the most important step towards growing up!
