Getting your first period can be a big step in growing up, and often comes with lots of different questions and feelings! This guide aims to provide you with some helpful information about first periods, including signs that it’s coming, what to expect when it arrives, and tips on how to handle your first period symptoms. It also offers tips and suggestions for parents and guardians, we also include some suggestions on how to support someone experiencing this new stage in life.

What is a first period?

A first period (or ‘menarche’ to use its fancy term) is when someone experiences their first menstrual bleed. It’s part of the menstrual cycle which is the four stages your body goes through as it prepares for the possibility of pregnancy. If an egg is not fertilised, the body sheds the lining of the uterus as it will not need this to support an embryo. This shedding or bleeding is known as a ‘period’, and it happens around every 21 to 35 days in those assigned female at birth.

When will my period begin?

The average age of starting your period is around 12. However, there’s no ‘right’ age for your period to start and for most people, it’s between the ages of 8 and 17. A few signs can indicate that a period may start soon:

Growth of underarm and pubic hair
Breast development (typically, periods start about two years after breasts begin to grow)
Vaginal discharge (a clear or white liquid in your underwear is often a sign that a period may start soon).

It's important to remember that each body follows its own timeline. It’s perfectly normal for periods to start later or earlier than the average. However, you should see a GP if your periods have not started by age 15 and at the age of 13 if you have not had any signs of puberty.

Signs of a first period

In the weeks leading up to their first period, some people may notice certain symptoms. These can include:

Cramping in the tummy, back, or legs
Bloating or a swollen feeling in the tummy
Sore or tender breasts
Mood swings
Feeling more tired than usual
Breakouts or acne.

Remember that not everyone will experience these symptoms, and they can vary in intensity. If you are suffering with period pain, you may want to take medication such as Ultravana® Period Pain Relief tablets to relieve discomfort.

What does your first period look like?

Every person’s first period is unique. Some people may only see light spotting – a few drops of brownish or reddish blood on their underwear. For others, it might start with bright red blood right away. Both are normal, and so is experiencing lighter or heavier flow. Sometimes, small blood clots are also normal.

The length and flow of your period may also vary. Initially, periods might be light or last just a few days. The typical period lasts between two and seven days, but it can take several cycles for your body to find a regular pattern.

What to do when you get your first period

If you feel anxious, try to remember that periods are a normal part of life. It might help to carry a “first-period kit” in your bag, which could include pads, spare underwear, and some wipes.

For your first period, many girls find pads to be the easiest option. However, there are different types of period products – pads, tampons, menstrual cups, and period underwear. Start with what makes you feel most comfortable, and you can always try other options as you get used to having periods.

Remember that leaks can happen to anyone, including adults! If you have a leak, don’t panic. Tying a sweatshirt around your waist is a quick fix, and keeping a spare pair of underwear in your bag is a smart move.

For menstrual symptoms such as cramps, using a heating pad, hot water bottle or taking a warm bath can help. Doing light exercise, drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated, and eating healthily can also relieve symptoms. If you have strong cramps, consider over-the-counter pain relief, but make sure to talk to a parent or guardian before buying any medication to check whether it’s suitable for you to take.

Supporting your daughter’s first period

For parents or guardians, knowing how to talk to a young person about to start their period and providing support can be invaluable. Here are some ways you can help:

Talk about periods early on, even before you think your daughter is close to starting. Try to make it an open and ongoing conversation with the whole household, rather than a one-time talk. You could use everyday moments, like seeing period products at the shops, to start the discussion naturally.
Use straightforward language and avoid euphemisms. It helps remove any sense of shame or embarrassment. Explain that periods are normal and nothing to be ashamed of.
Show your daughter the different period products available and talk about how they’re used. Some girls might prefer to start with pads, as tampons and menstrual cups can take a little practice.
Help your daughter put together a small pouch with period essentials that she can carry in her school bag or when out with friends. It’s reassuring to have supplies on hand, so she feels prepared when her period arrives.
If applicable, share your own memories or stories about your period. It helps your daughter know that she’s not alone and that everyone goes through similar experiences.

Starting periods is a new experience, but with the right information and support, this change can feel manageable and even empowering. Remember that everyone’s experiences are as unique as the individual, and if you find you or your daughter are suffering with painful or heavy periods as cycles become more regular, you can seek advice from a GP or pharmacist.

Menstrual Health Products

Do you suffer with disruptive periods?

Our menstrual health products are designed to provide effective relief from heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) and period pain, helping you to get on with your life.

Evana Heavy Period Relief Tablets and Ultravana Period Pain Relief Tablets are easily accessible both online and from a range of pharmacies without the need for a prescription.

Explore our website to find out more about our period medicines.

Find relief from HMB
Buy Evana
Find relief from painful periods
Buy Ultravana

Sign up to our mailing list for exclusive content and updates

Evana® Heavy Period Relief 500 mg tablets. Tranexamic acid. Suitable for women aged 18 to 45 years. Ultravana® Period Pain Relief 250 mg Gastro-resistant tablets. Naproxen. Suitable for women aged 15 to 50 years. Always read the label.