Wondering How to Get Your First Period? Here’s What’s What

Getting your first period is a big milestone of puberty. It means you’re growing up! Sometimes, waiting for that moment to come can feel like ages as you’re filled with anticipation. So how do you get your first period?

Here’s the thing. There’s no way of making your first period come. You will get your first period when your body is ready.

Most girls get their period somewhere between the age of 10 and 16, with the majority being around 12 years old. However - keep in mind that these are just estimates. It is totally normal (and nothing to worry about!) if you get your period earlier or later than your friends. Each of us is unique and on her own schedule. It’s part of what makes each of us individuals. And that’s pretty great.

If you’re one of the first of your friends to get your period, you might be in a good position to guide your friends when they get their period. On the other hand, if you’re one of the last in your class to start menstruating – don’t worry. Think of it as an advantage. Your pals can help you understand what to expect and how to be prepared.

When your specific time to get your first period is has mostly to do with your family history. If you want to know more about when you’ll get your first period, the very best first period calculator is genetics. Ask your mum when she got hers. Most girls get their first period around the same age as their mums got theirs.

This means there is no direct way to start your first period faster. There are a lot of purported methods for how to get your period for the first time. These include eating certain foods like parsley, ginger, or pineapple. However, none of these are proven and they’re highly unlikely to give you the results you want. The bad news is that there really isn’t a sure-fire way of making your period come faster. Really, you just have to wait it out and let your body do its thing.

There are a few physical signs you’ll notice in your body that will let you know your first period is right around the corner. If you pay attention to the changes in your body, they can act like a quasi first period calculator.

• You’ve started growing breasts buds, little berry-sized mounds under your nipples. You can expect your first period about two years after your breast buds first appear.
• You’ve started growing pubic hair. Pubic hair usually makes an appearance a little after your breast buds develop.
• You’ve started getting vaginal discharge – a clear or milky liquid that you notice on your knickers. Vaginal discharge is your body’s response to changing hormones in your body, a sign your body is getting ready to menstruate real soon.

Some things like being severely underweight or overweight can alter the hormones in your body to the point that it changes when you get your first period. Many girls who are severely underweight due to an eating disorder, for instance, won’t start menstruation. If you think you fall in this category, see a doctor for advice and help.

If you haven’t had your first period by the age of 16, you may be experiencing something called delayed puberty. This is something that should be discussed with your physician.

Otherwise, the best advice for how to get your first period is to take the best care of your body that you can. Eat well. Say no to drastic diet or exercise regimens. Avoid stress. The rest is up to your body and its own clock.

Stash some TAMPAX Pearl Compak in your bag. You can ask your mum or an older sibling to get some for you at the shop. They super small, so they’re easy for taking with your anywhere. That way you’ll be ready when your period does come. Plus, TAMPAX Pearl use patented LeakGuard technology for up 100% leakage protection. To feel extra prepared, wear an ALWAYS Dailies panty liner so you don’t get caught off guard when your period does come.