TeenHealthFX - Answers - How To Prepare For First Period

Females: Your Period / Question
Published: November 1, 2000

Dear TeenHealthFX,

I'm worried that I will get my first period during school. How can I be prepared to face it and prevent myself from being embarrassed in case I get covered in menstrual blood??

Signed: How To Prepare For First Period

Dear How To Prepare For First Period,

Let me start by saying that this question is in the head of every girl awaiting her period, and I am so glad that you had the courage to ask. Rest assured that the onset of your 1st period will not bring a river of "menstrual blood". It will most likely start as a light amount of dark colored discharge.

You can prepare for it and don't stress about getting it in school. Buy some light to moderate protection pads. Keep one with you in your locker or backpack. This way when the time comes and you begin menstruating you'll have back-up waiting for you. It is hard to tell what your first periods will be like. For more information on your period, see Periodless & Pads Or Tampons.

Also, most girls get their period 2 years after they first develop breasts - this may give you some sense of a time reference. Keep in mind that getting your period is a natural event and there is no need to be embarrassed.

Signed: TeenHealthFX