Table of Contents
Introduction
The first menstrual period, also known as menarche, is a milestone in a girl’s life. It marks the start of her reproductive years.
Although menarche, or the first menstrual period, is a common biological phenomenon, many young girls are still afraid of it because of a lack of knowledge.
Parents of young girls have questions such as: signs your first period is coming in a week; how to know when you get your period; and so on.
In this article, let’s discuss everything in detail about the first menstruation.
What is menarche (First Menstrual Period)?
Menarche is the start of menstruation for a woman. It is a natural biological process where the uterine line sheds and menstrual blood starts coming out through the vagina.
What is the Normal Age for Menarche?
Although there isn’t a specific normal age for menarche to occur, it typically happens around 9 to 16 years of age. The start of the first period is based on a lot of factors, including genetics, food choices, lifestyle, and overall well-being.
Signs of Starting Your First Period
Common signs that you’re getting your period:
- Pubic hair development
- Breast development
- Acne on face or body
- Rapid body growth
These are the common signs your daughter is about to start her period. Ensure to talk to your daughter about these before her menarche and create awareness.
Causes of Your Menarche (first menstrual period)
Menarche occurs when the body is finally ready to support the menstrual cycle. It is caused by hormonal changes that result in increased levels of estrogen and progesterone happens primarily triggered by hormonal changes associated with puberty.
In short, menarche is a biological function that is caused by the hormone changes in the body including estrogen and progesterone hormones.
Difference Between Menstruation and Menarche
Menarche or first menstrual period is the start of the first menstrual cycle which typically happens around the age of 10 to 15.
Menstruation on the other hand is the regular menstrual cycle that happens every month which is the shedding of the uterine lining.
What to Do When I Get My First Period?
Apart from this, one can also start to learn about basic menstrual hygiene, menstrual hygiene products, and their usage from parents or guardian.
If you got your period at school or in a public place where there is no access to menstrual hygiene products (Pads, Tampons, Menstrual Cups), ensure to inform your teacher or your school nurse and seek help.
Common Challenges or Discomforts During Menarche
The most common challenges or discomforts during menarche (First Period) are:
- Abdomen cramps
- Discomfort in the vaginal area
- Mood swings
- Bloating
- Fatigue
- Acne/Breakouts
- Heavy periods
How Can I Track My Menstrual Cycle After First Menstrual Period?
To track the menstrual cycle after the first menstrual period, ensure to note down the date of the first period in a diary or an app.
The first menstrual cycle after menarche may arrive anywhere between 21 and 45 days.
But some girls have irregular periods after hitting puberty. Hence it is essential to consult with a gynecologist if you do not get your periods for over 6 months.
When to Consult a Doctor?
Although menarche, or the first menstrual period, is a natural phenomenon, it requires a consultation with your gynecologist.
Gynecologists can explain to teach girls what they can expect and how they can use certain menstrual hygiene products.
Apart from this, it is important to have a routine gynecological checkup twice every year.
Conclusion:
As much as menarche is a common biological process, teen girls find it difficult to understand how it works and how to manage the symptoms.
It is important for parents to book their teen a consultation with the gynecologist.
Schedule your appointments with Dr. Deepthi Jammi, the best gynecologist in Chennai. Contact Jammi Scans at 7338771733.
Chennai women’s clinic is now Jammi Scans
FAQ:
1. What is Your First Period Like?
The first period of a teen can vary from person to person, but it is generally light with abdominal cramps and mood swings.
2. What Triggers a Girl’s First Period?
A girl’s first period is triggered by factors such as:
- Hormonal changes
- Lifestyle
- Food habits
3. Does a Girl Spot Before Her First Period?
Although not everyone experiences spotting before the first period, it can occur to some girls before the first period. This could also be a sign of menarche.
4. How Long is the First Period?
The first period is typically shorter in duration than regular periods. It can be anywhere from 2 days to a week, depending on the individual.
5. Are First Periods Heavy?
First periods aren’t usually heavy when compared to the regular menstrual cycle. However, some girls might have heavier periods during menarche too.
6. Can I Push My Period Out Faster?
Menstruation is a natural process, and doing something to push it can alter one’s hormones, causing other health issues.
7. What is the Youngest Age to Get Your Period?
Although there isn’t any specific age, these days, girls as early as 8 years old get their first period. This can be because of a lot of different factors, including hormonal changes, lifestyle, and food habits.
