What happens During A Girl’s First Period: A Mom's Guide

• A girl’s first period, also called menarche, usually happens between 9-15 years old, with the average age being 12.

• It’s a sign that her body is maturing and capable of reproduction (but she won’t be fully grown just yet!).

• The first period can be light or heavy, and it may take a few months or even years for her cycle to become regular.

• Breast development started 2-3 years ago.

• Vaginal discharge (clear or white fluid in underwear) for 6 months to a year.

• Growth spurt has slowed down.

• Lower belly cramps, back pain, or mood swings a few days before.

How to Prepare?

• Talk to her about periods before they start.

• Keep a period kit ready (pads, wipes, spare underwear).

• Reassure her that every girl’s period is different—there’s no “normal.”

1. Flow & Color

• The first period might be light spotting or heavier flow.

• The color can range from bright red to brownish (both are normal).

What to Say:

• “It might look different each time, and that’s completely okay!”

2. Duration

• It can last anywhere from 2 to 7 days.

• Some girls have a few days of spotting, while others have a steady flow.

What to Say:

• “The first few periods may be unpredictable, but your body will adjust.”

3. Cramps & Discomfort

• She may feel mild cramps, back pain, or bloating.

• Cramps happen because the uterus is shedding its lining.

How to Help?

• Encourage a warm heating pad or gentle stretching.

• Offer herbal teas or light exercise to ease cramps.

1. Start with a Simple Conversation

• If she sees a pad or tampon, ask:

• “Do you know what these are for? Let’s talk about it.”

• If she brings it up first, say:

• “I’m glad you asked! Periods are just a normal part of growing up.”

2. Be Open and Positive

• Avoid words like “painful” or “messy”—normalize it instead.

• Share your own experience if she’s curious.

3. Answer Her Questions Honestly

• “Will it hurt?” → “It might feel like belly cramps, but it’s manageable.”

• “How often will I get it?” → “It usually happens every month, but it may be irregular at first.”

• “Can I still go to school or play sports?” → “Absolutely! We’ll find what works best for you.”

Keep a small pouch with:

Pro Tip: Keep an extra period kit in her school bag!

1. During School

• If she gets her period at school, tell her to stay calm and ask a teacher or nurse.

• She can tie a sweater around her waist if she’s worried about leaks.

• Encourage her to carry pads or tampons in her school bag.

2. During Sports or PE

• Periods shouldn’t stop her from playing sports!

• Pads, period underwear, or tampons work for different activities.

• Staying active can actually reduce cramps.

3. On a Special Day (Exams, Events, etc.)

• If she has cramps before an exam, a warm water bottle or light stretching can help.

• Encourage her to drink plenty of water and eat iron-rich foods.

• No period by age 15.

• Severe pain that doesn’t improve with home remedies.

• Extremely heavy bleeding (changing a pad every 1-2 hours).

• Periods suddenly stop after becoming regular.

• It’s okay if she feels shy or awkward—don’t push, just be available.

• Help her track her period so she knows what to expect next time.

• Let her know that periods don’t define her—they’re just a small part of growing up.

With your support, she’ll feel confident, prepared, and comfortable navigating this new phase of life!