My First Period

Question: I have just graduated from grade 7 and I don't have my period yet. I am on Christmas holidays now but what if next year when i'm in grade 8 I get it and I am in school that day, someone might see if it leaks. Any advice.

Dr. Farah Kroman: The average age for periods to start is 12 to 13 but anywhere from 11 to 16 years is normal. Periods are often irregular for the first year or so. Be prepared - make sure you have a pad or tampon with you in your school bag in case your period starts at school. You can also start wearing a breathable liner in your underwear, just in case.

Question: I'm 14 and I don't have my period- all my friends do And I also don't "have boobs" they are tiny don't even fit into a padded bra Is the something wrong with me? Should I eat something different? Please help!

Dr. Farah Kroman: Even though 12 is the average age for your periods to start, the normal range is between 11 and 16 years old. The age you start depends a lot on your genetics and also your body mass index. When did your mum start her periods? Are you quite slim or do you play a lot of sport? In any case, you shouldn’t worry until you are at least 16. In fact, enjoy your period free time!

Question: I'm scared about having my period and what is discard and the pill? I've taled to my mum she got her period late at about 16 but my sister and auntie both got theirs around 11 im 11 should I get my period soon and if so how will I be ready at school? have pads/tampons in my bag or where they should be and yes I know I don't wear both tampons and pads together but im not sure which one ill use.

Dr. Farah Kroman: Going from a girl to a woman is quite a scary progress and it is actually normal to be scared. The good news is, we all survive it and you will too. Discharge is the clear or white gooey stuff that you may find in your underwear or when you wipe. It is there to keep you healthy and is completely normal. You can wear a breathable liner to keep you and your underwear fresh. Many girls notice that they start getting discharge before they get their period. It is normal to get your period between 11 and 16 years old so yours can come at any time. I'm glad you are well prepared with pads and tampons. If you haven't practiced with a tampon yet, and you get your periods at school, start with a pad. If you feel comfortable using tampons then go for it. Both are fine.

Question: How do you know if your period is coming if you haven't had it yet?

Dr. Farah Kroman: Periods are pretty hard to predict at first. Some people experience PMS (premenstrual syndrome) symptoms in the days leading up to a period so they have a little warning. These symptoms can include abdominal cramping, bloating, sore breasts, mood swings and acne. When your periods do start they may be irregular for a year or so - this is normal. Eventually they usually settle into a predictable rhythm of every 28 days or so. Keep some pads or tampons on you in your school bag or purse in case they start unexpectedly.