Menstruation
Having periods can be challenging, especially when you don't have all the information. This page answers questions like 'What is a period?', 'What do periods feel like?', 'What are the different kinds of period products?', and so much more!
When people know more about their bodies, they can advocate for themselves, feel more confident, and manage their periods without fear or shame!
What is a period?
A period, or menstruation, describes the time when blood and tissue exit the body through the vagina. Someone who has a uterus and ovaries may have a period. Periods typically begin around age 12 and continue to around age 51.
What is happening in the body?
Hormones
Hormones are like messengers in the body and they control a lot; they tell us when we are hungry, help our bones grow strong, and make us tired. Two main hormones control periods and they are called estrogen and progesterone.
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Timeline
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8-13 years old: puberty typically begins for people with uteruses
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breasts begin to develop
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underarm and public hair begins to grow
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body shape begins to change and hips widen
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A first period usually happens 1-3 years after breasts start to develop
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Irregular periods are likely for about 1 year after someone's first period
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Regular periods occur about every 21-35 days
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45-55 years old: menopausal transition and periods stop
How do periods feel?
Everyone has a different experience with their period. Some people feel no difference while others have very impactful periods. Some common things that people feel when on their period include...
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breast or chest tenderness
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stomach cramps
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lower back cramps
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bloating
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irritability
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headache
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fatigue
Pain on your period is common but it is not normal. If someone is experiencing a lot of pain, they should talk to their doctor. There are a lot of things that doctors can do to help with period pain!
If someone is experiencing discomfort or occasional cramps, there are some easy things they can do at home to help.
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take Advil (ibuprofen), Midol, or Aleve (naproxen sodium)
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use a heating pad on your lower abdomen or lower back
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make sure you are getting enough sleep
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drink pleanty of water
Period Product Guide
There are many different kinds of menstrual products. There are single-use products like pads and tampons, and then there are reusable products like period underwear and menstrual cups. Some products you wear (pads and period underwear) and some you insert (tampons and menstrual cups). The 'best' period product is the one that works for you!
