Your first period

Your first period, called menarche, is a big milestone, and it is completely normal to feel excited, nervous, or a bit "meh". Periods usually start around age 12, though the NHS says anywhere from about 8 to 17 is within the usual range.

Clues it might be coming

• Breasts started growing. The first period usually comes about 2 years later (ACOG says 2 to 3 years).
• Pubic and underarm hair.
• White or yellowish discharge in your underwear, often months before.

What it might look like

First periods are often light, and can be brown, pink or red. You might only see a reddish-brown stain on your pants or sheets, not a sudden gush. The whole period is only about 20 to 90 ml (1 to 5 tablespoons). It is normal for periods to be irregular for the first year or two, and ACOG says it can take several years for cycles to settle. Cycles of 21 to 45 days count as normal in teens.

Which product should I use?

It is up to you. The NHS says pads, tampons, menstrual cups and period pants are all safe and suitable from your very first period. Many people start with pads because tampons and cups take a bit of getting used to. A tampon cannot get lost inside you, and you can take it out with the string at any time.