Hi I just got my first period and I don’t really know anything about it
Hey, there are a few basics that can make your first period feel much less confusing 💛
Here’s what’s happening: a period is a natural part of your menstrual cycle, and the bleeding comes through your vagina.
It can last around 2 to 7 days, and brown period blood is normal too.
A cycle averages around 28 days, but it can be shorter or longer, especially at first.
Your periods might be irregular and hard to predict while your cycle settles, which can take a couple of years.
You could track them on luna to get a better idea of when the next one might arrive.
You might feel shocked, happy, sad or annoyed about starting your period, and all of those reactions are normal.
👉 You can try different period products to find what feels most comfortable for you.
👉 If you’re using pads, aim to change them every 4 to 6 hours, or before they’re soaked through.
👉 You could make a period kit for school with pads, wipes, snacks with fibre, painkillers and a heat pad.
👉 Telling a parent or trusted adult can also help if you need support or period products.
Cramps, bloating and mood swings are common, but if they become too uncomfortable, you could talk to a parent or trusted adult, or a health professional.
Take care, and any more questions, just ask luna 🫶
How we answered this question:
luna's team of experts comprises GPs, Dermatologists, Safeguarding Leads and Junior Doctors as well as Medical Students with specialised interests in paediatric care, mental health and gynaecology. Questions are answered and reviewed by this team.
Sources:
NHS "Starting periods"
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/periods/starting-periods/
