Just Started My Period and I Have Some Questions

TeenHealthFX completely understands that you have a lot of questions about this and we think it’s great that you’ve taken some steps to get those questions answered.

As for your first question, the light flow of your period could definitely be because you are just starting out menstruating. However, some people have a lighter flow than others, so it is also possible you may bleed a little lighter than the next person. The key thing to focus on over time is whether or not your periods are regular – how often they come (every 21-34 days is normal for an adult), how many days they generally last (usually 2-7 days) and how heavy/light they are on the different days in which you are menstruating.

As for your question about bloody stool, it is important to differentiate whether there is blood in the stool or the blood appeared in the toilet or on toilet paper. If blood appeared in the toilet or on toilet paper, it could certainly be menstrual blood, which is different than having bloody stool. If there is blood in the stool or blood from the rectum on toilet paper that came from wiping the anus, this would not be connected to menstruating. If you have rectal bleeding for more than a day or two, you have other concerning symptoms accompanying the bleeding, or if the bleeding is worrying you for any other reason, call your doctor right away.

The ”bloody thread” you mentioned sounds like part of your menstrual flow. Menstrual flow consists of blood, extra tissue lining from the uterus and an unfertilized egg, so there will be some slightly different consistency to your menstrual flow. It is unlikely to be anything of concern, but you could always ask your doctor about it at your next visit.  

If you have any other questions about your period, you can always write back to TeenHealthFX. You can also speak to a parent, your doctor or even a school nurse. It’s especially important to speak to a medical professional about your period if:

• Your period lasts longer than a week
• Your blood soaks through more than one pad every 1-2 hours
• You have gone longer than 3 months without a period
• You have bleeding in between periods
• You have an unusual amount of pain before or during your period
• Your periods were regular but then because irregular

If you don't have a doctor and live in northern New Jersey, you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973-971-5199 for an appointment with an adolescent medicine specialist or contact your local teen health center or Planned Parenthood. You can also contact your insurance company for a list of in-network providers.