Advice

Has your period started? Or just want to know what you're in for? Check out everything you need to know about periods here, such as what they are, when most girls get them and what to do when your period arrives...

What are periods?

Menstruation, monthlies, on the blob, on the rag, the curse, time of the month, coming on, getting the painters in, Aunt Flo.

What are periods?

When a girl's body has developed enough to have a baby, her ovaries will release an egg each month. This is called ovulating. At the same time a thick lining forms in her womb in case a baby needs to grow there.

If the egg isn't fertilised by sperm it doesn't start developing into a baby. The thick womb lining isn't needed that month, so it is discarded. It passes out of the vagina as blood and this is what we call a period - it usually lasts from three to eight days.

The unfertilised egg is discarded, too. But this is microscopic. So we can't see it leaving.

These monthly changes - from the start of one period to the start of the next - are called the menstrual cycle. It usually takes about 28 days for a full cycle, but it varies between women.

When will I start?

The average age in the UK is 12 and a half, but it could be any age from 8 to 20. Girls often start around the same age as their mothers.

If a girl's breasts are growing and/or she's noticed discharge in her knickers - chances are her period will start soon.

What should I do when I start?

Most girls' periods are unpredictable at first, so don't expect them like clockwork every 28 days. Still, it's worth making a note of when they happen, so you'll know when they're settling down and be prepared each month.

You'll need sanitary protection to soak up your period, like tampons, or sanitary towels. It's best to try different kinds to find what's best for you, but most girls start using towels. Check out the Feminine Hygiene aisle at the supermarket.

Do periods hurt?

Many girls get mild cramps in the lower part of their stomachs. Others get backache. For a few, it can be a lot worse.

Exercise is the best cure, or resting a hot water bottle where it hurts, taking a hot bath, lying down and breathing deeply, or taking painkillers. If you regularly have really bad pains, your doctor will be able to help. Make an appointment with your GP.

Some girls get pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) just before their periods, which usually means mood swings and physical symptoms like bloating, sore breasts or spots. This can be reduced by a healthy diet and exercise.

Want to know more about what's going on throughout your cycle? Read our day-by-day guide to your period.