Everything Teenagers Need To Know About Menarche (First Period)

Getting your first period – the medical term for which is ‘menarche’ – is an overwhelming experience with horror, confusion, and anxiety, all thrown in the mix together. Because periods are still such a taboo in India, many teenagers have never had an open conversation about them. On top of that, there are so many myths about periods that many of them are either ill-informed about the topic or are completely misinformed, which only leads to more confusion and fear. But periods are a natural part of a girl growing up and armed with the right information, the right period care, and the right support system, you can go through your period days with comfort and confidence, without giving up on the things you love. So, settle in and get ready for a lesson on the basics of menstruation and first time period!

What Is Menarche or the 1st Period?

Menarche, the medical term for a girl’s first period, marks the beginning of menstruation. It’s a significant milestone in puberty, signaling that the body is now capable of reproduction. Menarche usually occurs after other physical changes, such as breast development and pubic hair growth, which are some common signs your period is coming for the first time. 

While the first period can bring a mix of emotions, it’s important to remember that it’s a completely natural and normal part of growing up. Understanding what menarche is and what to expect can help ease any anxiety or confusion. It’s a step towards adulthood, but it doesn’t mean you need to grow up overnight. Being prepared and having conversations about what to expect can make the experience less stressful and more empowering. With that said, let’s learn more about what menstruation actually entails.

What Is Menstruation?

Menstruation is the body’s monthly process of shedding the uterine lining when pregnancy doesn’t occur. Every month, the body prepares for the possibility of pregnancy by thickening the lining of the uterus, which is the organ that carries a fetus or baby. However, if no fertilization happens, or in other words, if there is no fetus, the body releases the uterus lining through the vagina as blood and tissue, which we call a period. Most periods last between 3 to 7 days and can vary in flow, with some days being heavier than others. 

Menstruation or period is only one stage of what we call the menstrual cycle, which starts from day one of your period and lasts for around 28 days. It is during the menstrual cycle that your body starts preparing for a potential pregnancy. If this does not occur, you get your period, and hence the cycle starts all over again. This goes on every month till about age 50 when women reach menopause, or the end of the menstrual cycle.

What Is the Average Age of Menarche?

The average age for menarche typically falls between 9 and 15 years, with most girls experiencing their first period around the age of 12. However, this age range can vary depending on factors like genetics, body weight, and overall health. Sometimes menarche can happen earlier or later than this range due to a variety of reasons. Let’s learn more about these reasons.

Early Menarche

Early menarche, occurring before the age of 9, may be caused by factors such as higher body mass index (BMI), hormonal imbalances, genetics, or even an unhealthy diet. Girls who experience early menarche might feel out of sync with their peers, which can be emotionally challenging. It’s essential to have open communication and support from family, friends, or healthcare professionals. Early periods don’t necessarily indicate any health issues, but if it occurs, it’s helpful to monitor changes and seek medical advice to ensure everything is progressing normally.

Delayed Menarche

Delayed menarche, when a girl hasn’t started her period by age 15, can happen for various reasons. It might be due to genetics, low body mass index (BMI), nutritional deficiencies, medical conditions such as anorexia or gastrointestinal conditions, and partaking in intensive physical exercise. While it might not always indicate anything abnormal, it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider if menstruation hasn’t begun by age 15 to rule out any underlying health concerns.

What are Some Signs of First Period?

Several physical and emotional changes signal that the first period, or menarche, is approaching. Some of the most common signs of 1st period include:

• Breast development, which is one of the most noticeable menarche symptoms and usually begins a year or two before menarche
• Growth of pubic and underarm hair
• Whitish vaginal discharge, which is one of the first period symptoms that can occur a few months before the first period
• Mood swings, bloating, and mild cramps are also some 1st period symptoms which may be present as the body prepares for menstruation.

These signs can vary from person to person, and some may not experience them at all. It’s important to recognize these changes as a normal part of puberty and to know that everyone’s body develops at its own pace.

How to Deal with First Time Menstruation?

Handling your first period can seem intimidating, but with a few helpful strategies, you’ll feel more in control. The key is being prepared and knowing how to care for your body during this time. It’s important to have the right supplies, know how to manage period symptoms, and start tracking your cycle for future periods.

The Right Period Care Supplies

Having the right period care supplies is essential for feeling comfortable and confident during menstruation. 

• Soft, rash-free sanitary pads are ideal for teen menstruators, especially since your skin may be sensitive during this time, and you don’t have to look further than Azah Sanitary Pads, which are cottony soft, 3x more absorbent than any other pads in the market, and offer long-lasting protection from leaks. They’re also clinically and dermatologically tested to be safe and skin-friendly!
• Disposable period panties are a fantastic option, particularly for heavy flow days and a hectic routine, which are common during your first few cycles. Azah Disposable Period Panties, for example, offer 5x more absorption than pads, 12 hour protection from leaks, 360 degree coverage, and snug, panty-like fit.
• Many teens also experience unpredictable or irregular periods. In these cases, panty liners are a great option to rely on during the days when you are expecting your period. Azah Panty Liners are your go-to as they are ultra-thin and discreet, offering just the right level of protection as you wait for your period to arrive.

Preparing a period kit with all of these supplies will help you feel secure and confident no matter when you get your period.

Managing Period Cramps

Period cramps are a common symptom of menstruation, caused by the uterus contracting in order to shed its lining. But they can be managed with a few simple remedies. Applying a heating pad or hot water bottle to your lower abdomen can help relax the muscles and reduce pain. Light exercise, such as walking or stretching, can also alleviate cramps by increasing blood flow. But if you experience extremely severe cramps, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying conditions.

Dealing with Mood Swings & PMS

Periods come with a lot of hormonal changes, especially the rising and falling levels of hormones like estrogen and progesterone. This can lead to mood swings or premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It’s normal to feel more emotional or irritable around your period. Practicing self-care can make a big difference in managing these feelings. Activities like journaling, listening to music, or talking to a friend can help lift your mood. Physical activity or movement, such as light yoga or a short walk, can also release endorphins, which naturally boost your mood.

Tracking Your Cycle

Tracking your menstrual cycle is a helpful way to anticipate when your next period will arrive. You can use a period tracker app or simply mark your calendar. Keep track of the day you get your period, how many days it lasts, and any symptoms you experience, such as cramps or mood changes. Over time, this will help you predict your cycle more accurately. Since teen menstruators often experience irregular cycles in the beginning, tracking will also give you a sense of what is normal for you.

Navigating Your Periods with Ease

Experiencing menarche, or your first period, is a major milestone in growing up, but it doesn’t have to be a scary or confusing event. By understanding the changes your body is going through and knowing how to manage your period flow and symptoms, you can feel more in control. Everyone’s experience with their first period is different, but with the right information, support, and period care, you’ll be able to navigate this new phase of life smoothly. Embrace it as a part of becoming a young adult, and remember, you’re never alone—there are always people and resources to help guide you through!

FAQs

Q: What is the menarche period?

Ans: Menarche is the term used to describe a girl's first menstrual period, which is a natural part of growing up and signifies that a girl’s body is now capable of reproduction. 

Q: What is menarche and menopause?

Ans: Menarche refers to the first menstrual period a girl experiences, signaling the start of puberty and her reproductive years. It typically occurs during puberty, between the ages of 9 and 15, but can sometimes occur earlier or later as well. Menopause, on the other hand, is the stage in a woman's life when she stops having periods altogether, marking the end of her reproductive years. This typically occurs between the ages of 45-55.

Q: Why are girls getting periods early?

Ans: Girls may experience early periods or early menarche due to several factors, including:

• Higher body mass index (BMI)
• Hormonal imbalances
• An unhealthy diet
• Genetics

Early periods aren’t necessarily a cause for concern, but it’s always good to consult a healthcare provider to ensure the child’s development is progressing normally.

Q: At which age do periods stop?

Ans: Periods typically stop between the ages of 45 and 55, which is when most women experience menopause. Menopause is defined as having no menstrual periods for 12 consecutive months. During this time, the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen, leading to the end of ovulation and menstruation.

Q: Do periods hurt?

Ans: Periods can sometimes cause discomfort or pain, commonly known as menstrual cramps. These cramps are caused by the uterus contracting to shed its lining. The pain usually occurs in the lower abdomen or lower back and can range from mild to severe. Some pain is normal and can usually be managed with heating pads, light exercise, and rest. However, if the pain is extremely intense or interferes with daily life, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider to rule out conditions like endometriosis.

Q: Is a 3 day period normal?

Ans: Yes, a 3-day period is completely normal. The length of menstrual periods varies from person to person, typically lasting anywhere from 2 to 7 days. It’s common for periods to be shorter or longer, especially during the first few years of menstruation or as one approaches menopause. However, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional to know for sure whether the length of your periods is normal or not.

Q: What if my daughter is 13 and still no period?

Ans: If your daughter is 13 and hasn’t had her first period yet, there’s generally no need to worry, as the average age of menarche is between 9 and 15. Some girls develop later than others due to factors like genetics, body weight, or overall health. As long as she’s showing other signs of puberty, such as breast development or pubic hair growth, her period will likely start soon. However, if she hasn’t started her period by age 15, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare provider to ensure everything is progressing normally.