Having that first menstrual period can be both exciting and scary. It's a new chapter in a girl's life that will last for decades. Some girls have tell-tale symptoms before the onset of their first period whereas others don't.
When Does it Happen?
On average, about six months before a girl starts her menstrual period for the first time she may notice a clear vaginal discharge, which is normal. Menarche, or the beginning of the menstrual cycle, occurs about two years after a girl has started developing breasts (thelarche), according to Kidshealth.org and about four to six months after pubic and underarm hair has begun to grow.
Probably Not Much Blood
The first period will probably present with a small amount of blood, which will more than likely be discovered in the girl's underwear. It may be brown or red in color. Pads or tampons may be used.
Starting Early, Starting Late
The first menstrual period will most likely arrive between the ages of 9 and 16. The average age is 12 or 13. When it actually decides to start depends on a girl's race, weight, height and cultural background. If a girl starts at a very young age (prior to age 9 or 10) this is considered premature menarche. If she hasn't started her period by the time she is 16, this is considered primary amenorrhea, according to Epigee.org. It is believed that a girl must weigh between 88 to 100 pounds before her brain is capable of sending signals to the body to start menarche. In other words, a girl that matures early and is physically developed is more likely to start her period than a skinny little girl.
Cramping, Bloating, Breast Tenderness, Etc.
A young girl may experience some cramping when her first period arrives. This is typical. Tylenol or Advil will to relieve this discomfort. Bloating may occur due to water retention. Leg or back aches and a slight headache may also occur. Prostaglandin is a substance that is released and causes the uterine muscles to contract and this is what causes cramping. Breast tenderness may be experienced prior to the first and subsequent menstrual periods.
Hormones! Outbursts!
A young girl may discover that right before the onset of her period she is more tired than she normally is and she may be crankier and perhaps more sensitive and emotional. Tears may flow. Again, this is typical. Hormonal changes, which occur when the body is preparing for a period, can cause feelings of sadness, anger and tension.
500 Times
The average woman will have approximately 500 menstrual periods in her life, beginning around the age of 12 and lasting until she is 50 or thereabouts, according to Womens-health.co.uk.
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