What the first period means
The first period is called menarche. It shows that your body has started a cycle: the uterine lining builds up and is shed again if pregnancy does not occur.
Important: it does not have to be regular right away. Especially in the first months and years, irregular intervals are very common because the hormone rhythm is still stabilising. National Health Portal: Starting your periods
When the first period arrives and why it varies so much
The first period can start early, in the middle or late in puberty. Two people of the same age can have completely different timings without anything being wrong.
Genetics often plays a role. Stress, intense physical activity, rapid weight changes and chronic illnesses can also affect the rhythm. If you feel that your body is generally not developing as expected or you have severe symptoms, a short check at a paediatric or adolescent clinic is a sensible step.
Nicknames like Anne Frank: a cultural note that surprises many
Menstruation was long referred to indirectly, with nicknames or euphemisms. That was not because it was rare, but because it was considered embarrassing.
One historical episode is well documented: in Japan the diary of Anne Frank was very popular in the 1960s. Reports describe that the euphemism "Anne's day" for the period spread then and that hygiene products were even at times marketed using Anne's name. JTA: The Japanese tampon named for Anne Frank
The background is that Anne Frank wrote in her diary about bodily development and noted in October 1942 that she expected her first period. Anne Frank House Research: Health in the Secret Annex
For your everyday life this is not a rule or a measure. It only shows how language changes when people speak more openly about a normal bodily topic.
Signs: how you can tell it is about to start
Some people notice a pulling sensation in the lower abdomen, breast tenderness, more spots, different energy levels or mood swings beforehand. Often there is also whitish discharge in the months before. This is often normal and part of the hormonal adjustment.
If the discharge smells strongly, turns greenish or comes with itching and burning, you should get it checked because that sounds less like normal puberty.
How long the first period lasts and how much blood is normal
The first bleeding can be very light or heavier than expected. The colour can also change, from bright red to dark red or brown. Brown is often simply older blood that has flowed out more slowly.
Clots can occur, especially on heavier days. Small clots are often not a reason to panic. More important is how you feel while it happens.
Irregularity is common at the start
In the first one to two years the interval between bleedings can vary widely. Sometimes there is a long gap after the first period. This can be normal as long as things generally move towards stability and you have no serious warning signs.
Products for the start: what is actually practical
You do not have to find one perfect product. Many start with pads or period underwear because they are uncomplicated and easy to change quickly.
Pads
Start with a regular absorbency and have a stronger option for the night. If you leak, it is often a question of fit and amount, not of doing something wrong.
Period underwear
It can work as the main protection or as a backup, for example at school. For many people it is mentally reassuring because the risk of visible stains is reduced.
Tampons
Tampons are an option, but you do not have to force yourself. If you want to try, choose a small size, stay calm and listen to your body. If it hurts, stop and use something else. Pain is not mandatory.
How often to change
Change them so that you feel clean and secure. If something is soaked through, smells or becomes uncomfortable, it is time. It is about comfort and hygiene, not a perfect number.
Period at school: an emergency kit that reduces stress
Many teenagers are not stressed because of the bleeding itself but because of the logistics. A small kit takes the pressure off, even if you rarely need it.
- 2 to 3 pads or tampons
- A spare pair of underwear
- A small bag for used products
- Optional: a thin pair of leggings or a longer top as backup
If you get a stain once, it does not mean you failed. This happens to many people, including adults.
Pain and cramps: what is normal and what is not
Period pain can feel like cramps, pressure or backache. Mild to moderate pain is common. Some people also experience nausea, headaches or tiredness.
What often helps
- Heat, for example a hot water bottle
- Light exercise, a walk or stretching
- Regular eating and drinking
- Rest and sleep, if possible
Painkillers, if you need them
Some people need medication for period pain. Which medicines suit you depends on age, health and other medications. If you are unsure, a short check at a pharmacy or a medical clinic is sensible. You can also find straightforward guidance on period pain from the National Health Portal. National Health Portal: Period pain
Smell, hygiene and discharge
Menstrual blood can have an odour, especially if it has been in a pad for a long time. A faint smell is normal. A very strong, foul smell or itching and burning are more likely signs that something is wrong.
For intimate hygiene, water and a mild routine are sufficient. Perfumed products and aggressive washing can irritate the skin and worsen problems.
Myths and facts that really help you
- Myth: You must not do sport during your period. Fact: Sport is usually fine and can even help with cramps if you feel up to it.
- Myth: Irregular means always sick. Fact: Irregular cycles are common at the start; the important things are the overall course and any severe symptoms.
- Myth: Severe pain is just normal. Fact: Pain is common, but very severe or increasingly worse pain should be investigated.
- Myth: Leaking is embarrassing. Fact: It is a practical problem that happens to many people and can be solved.
Warning signs: when you should seek help
Many things are normal, even if they feel unfamiliar. But there are situations where getting checked is sensible.
Get checked if
- You bleed very heavily, for example if you are soaked through every hour for several hours
- You experience dizziness, fainting, extreme fatigue or a racing heart
- You have severe pain that stops you from doing daily activities
- You have repeated bleeding between periods
- After an initial phase you stop having periods for months
Very heavy bleeding can in rare cases be linked to bleeding disorders. Professional clinical guidance outlines a structured approach to adolescents with heavy menstrual bleeding. ACOG: Heavy menstrual bleeding in adolescents
Conclusion
The first period is usually less a medical problem than a new everyday routine. Irregular intervals, changing blood flow and mild to moderate pain are common at the start. With suitable products, a small emergency kit and a calm approach it becomes easier quickly. If bleeding is very heavy, pain stops your life or you feel dizzy and weak, seek help — there are good reasons and good solutions.
