Welcome back to another “Teaching Tuesday.” Today we will be reviewing menstruation, and going into detail about a woman’s first cycle with what to expect and how to manage.
The female reproductive system is a complex system of organs and hormones that work together to produce, transport, and nurture eggs, as well as support pregnancy. The first menstrual cycle is also known as menarche. Menarche is a significant milestone in any young girl’s life. This milestone marks the onset of puberty and the beginning of her reproductive life.
The average age at which a girl begins her menstrual cycle is around 12 years old, although it can range from 8 to 15 years old. The onset of menstruation is influenced by several factors, including genetics, nutrition, and overall health. Girls who are overweight or underweight may experience delayed or irregular menstruation, while those who are physically active may experience an earlier onset. It is important to note that the age at which a girl gets her first period does not necessarily indicate anything about her future reproductive health.
Fact / Though cycles can be irregular at first if you ever are going more than 3 months without a period it is important to let your healthcare provider know.
The first period is usually light and may last for a few days to a week. It is common for girls to experience some cramping or discomfort during this time. It is also possible for the first period to be irregular, meaning that it may not arrive on a predictable schedule. This is because the body is still adjusting to the hormonal changes that come with puberty.
Symptoms:
The first menstrual cycle is often accompanied by a variety of physical and emotional symptoms. These symptoms can include abdominal cramps, bloating, breast tenderness, fatigue, mood swings, and headaches. During this time the body is going through significant changes and it is essential to take care of oneself by getting enough rest, staying hydrated, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers as needed. Some girls find that heat, such as a warm bath or heating pad, can also help alleviate cramps.
It is common for young girls to feel anxious or embarrassed about their period, especially if they are not adequately prepared or educated about menstruation. It is a good idea for girls to be prepared for their first period by keeping sanitary products, such as pads or tampons, on hand so that they are prepared. Girls may want to experiment with different products to find what works best for them. It is also helpful to have a trusted adult, such as a parent or healthcare provider, to talk to about any questions or concerns.
Tip / Having any old Ipsy bags laying around? Ipsy bags are the perfect feminine hygiene product storage. They are fun, fashionable and the perfect size to store pads/tampons and other hygiene products discreetly.
What exactly is a period?
Menstruation, often referred to as “a period,” is a natural process that occurs approximately once a month, in which the uterus sheds its lining (the endometrium) in preparation for a possible pregnancy. The menstrual cycle typically lasts between 21 and 35 days and can vary in duration, length and intensity. The average length of a menstrual cycle is 28 days, with the actual bleeding lasting between 3 and 7 days. It is essential for girls to maintain good hygiene during their period by changing their sanitary products frequently and washing their genital area with mild soap and water. In addition, girls should be aware of the signs and symptoms of abnormal menstruation, such as heavy bleeding, severe cramps, or irregular periods, and seek medical attention if necessary.
Fact / If bleeding is heavy and you are bleeding through more than 1 pad or tampon per hour contact your healthcare provider or seek the nearest emergency room, especially if having symptoms such as dizziness, heart palpitations, weakness, lethargy, or fatigue.
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