Your first menstrual period is called "menarche," and it usually happens around age 12, although it can begin as early as age 9. This is a normal sign of growing up and reaching puberty.
Symptoms
When you begin your menstrual period, you may notice a bit of blood when going to the restroom. You will have this discharge for about three to seven days; this is a normal part of your period. Other symptoms that you may have at this time are cramping pain in your abdomen, aching in your legs or thighs, acne and tenderness in your breasts.
Treatments
For menstrual cramping, you may have to take pain relief medications or use a heating pad for comfort. During this time you may be more tired than usual, so taking short naps may also help with the pain. To treat acne, you can use anti-acne medicated face washes and creams.
Protection
During this time you will have to use products designed to keep the period blood from getting on your clothes. One such product is called a tampon. This is inserted into your vagina, in order to absorb the blood or you may use a pad. Pads have adhesive strips that help them to stick to your underwear.
The Menstrual Cycle
The average menstrual cycle is about 21 to 30 days in length. The first week you will bleed. This is called the menstrual flow. Around the second week your ovaries will produce an egg (ovulation). The last two weeks will be spent preparing your body to begin the cycle again. You may start to notice symptoms of an impending period about a week in advance.
Changes in the Menstrual Cycle
As you get older, your period will change in frequency, length and volume. This is perfectly normal, and it will continue this way until menopause, which happens around the age of 45 to 55.
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