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A Quick Note
Not everyone who gets a period identifies as a girl.
People of different gender identities have periods, and everything in this guide is for anyone who menstruates.
Getting your first period is a normal, healthy part of growing up. It can feel exciting, confusing, or even a little scary - and all of those feelings are okay. This guide explains what a period is, what to expect, and how to take care of yourself.
Your period doesn't have to stop you from doing the things you normally do. It is safe and healthy to:
Go to school
Play sports and exercise
Swim, bathe, and shower
Here are answers to some common questions.
What is a period?
A period (also called menstruation) is when a small amount of blood and tissue leaves your body through your vagina.
It happens because of hormones - natural chemical signals from your brain and ovaries.
Each month, these hormones make the lining of your uterus get thicker, getting ready in case of a pregnancy. One of your ovaries releases a tiny egg. If there is no pregnancy, the lining is not needed, so it breaks down and flows out as your period. Then the cycle starts over. This whole monthly pattern is called the menstrual cycle.
Learn more here.
When will my period start?
Your first period has a special name — it's called menarche (pronounced: MEN-ar-kee).
Most people get their first period between ages 10 and 16, and often around age 12. It usually comes about 2 to 3 years after your breasts first start to grow ("breast buds").
Before your first period, your body gives you some clues that it is coming:
Breasts starting to develop
Hair growing under your arms and in the pubic area
More body odor
Sometimes a little clear or white discharge in your underwear
These are signs of puberty. Learn more about puberty here.
Everyone's body has its own timing, so it is normal to start earlier or later than your friends.
Tip: Have some menstrual products available in your backpack or locker so you are prepared when your period starts. You might even be able to help a friend out too.
What is normal?
Here is what a typical period looks like. Yours may be a little different, and that is okay:
How often: Periods usually come every 21 to 45 days, counting from the first day of one period to the first day of the next.
How long: Bleeding usually lasts about 3 to 7 days.
How much: Flow is often lighter at the start, heavier in the middle, and lighter at the end.
You might change your menstrual product about 3 to 6 times a day.
What it looks like:
Blood can be bright red, dark red, or brownish.
Small clots (smaller than a quarter) can be normal.
Some people have a full flow, and others just have light brownish spotting at first - both are normal!
The first couple of years are often irregular.
When periods first start, they are often unpredictable.
You might skip a month, have two close together, or have periods that are different lengths. This is completely normal.
Your body is still learning the pattern, and periods usually become more regular within about 2 to 3 years.
It is a good idea to keep track of your periods on a calendar or a free period-tracking app.
This helps you notice your own pattern and know when to expect your next one.
How might I feel?
Hormone changes around your period can cause some normal symptoms:
Cramps: A throbbing or achy feeling in your lower belly or back. These may not happen right away in the first year.
Tummy changes: Some people feel like they might throw up or have looser bowel movements.
Mood and energy: You might feel more tired, grumpy, or emotional.
A warm heating pad, gentle movement, and over-the-counter pain medicine (ask a parent or school nurse) can help with cramps. Learn more here.
One important thing to know
Once you have started your periods, it is possible to become pregnant - even if your periods are still irregular.
If you ever have questions about your body, growing up, or staying healthy, a parent or your doctor is there to help.
Talk to a parent or clinician if:
Your period lasts longer than 7 days
You soak through a pad or tampon every 1 to 2 hours, or need to change it during the night
You pass blood clots bigger than a quarter
You have very bad cramps that keep you from school or activities
You feel very tired, dizzy, or weak
You have not started your period by age 15
You have any other questions or worries
Periods are a normal and healthy part of growing up.
It is always okay to ask questions - no question is silly!
📚 References
This content was adapted from American Academy of Pediatrics Patient Education Resources, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists patient education handouts, and North American Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology Patient Handouts.
Images from OHSU Period Education Guide
Reviewed by AR DO, JW MD, Patient Education Committee.