Every Period Is a Little Different, and That Is Okay
When you are just starting your period, it is natural to wonder whether what you are experiencing is normal. The honest answer is that periods vary a lot from person to person, especially in the first few years. Your body is still figuring things out.
Here is a guide to what is generally considered normal, and what might be worth mentioning to a parent or doctor.
How Long Should a Period Last?
A typical period lasts between 3 and 7 days. In the first year or two, it is common for periods to be shorter or longer than this as your body adjusts. If your period regularly lasts longer than 7 days, it is worth talking to a doctor.
How Heavy Is a Normal Flow?
Flow tends to be heaviest on days 2 and 3 and lighter toward the beginning and end. Most people use 3 to 6 pads or tampons per day on their heaviest days. Signs that flow might be too heavy include:
- Soaking through a pad in less than an hour
- Passing large clots (bigger than a quarter)
- Feeling dizzy or very tired during your period
If any of these apply to you, speak to a parent and see a doctor.
How Often Should a Period Come?
A typical cycle is 21 to 35 days from the first day of one period to the first day of the next. In the first couple of years, cycles are often irregular. You might go two months without a period, then have two close together. This is very common and usually nothing to worry about.
Are Cramps Normal?
Yes, mild to moderate cramping is completely normal. Cramps are caused by the uterus contracting and usually happen in the first 1 to 2 days of your period. You can help manage cramps with:
- Heat therapy applied to your lower abdomen (Happie Moon Heating Patches are perfect for this)
- Light movement like walking or stretching
- Rest and staying warm
- Pain relief medication if a parent says it is okay
Very severe cramps that stop you from going to school or doing normal activities are not something you have to put up with. Talk to a doctor.
What Color Should Period Blood Be?
Period blood can range from bright red to dark brown or almost black. All of these are normal. Dark or brown blood usually appears at the start or end of a period when the flow is slower. Bright red blood is typical during the heaviest days.
What Is Not Normal?
While periods vary a lot, the following are worth mentioning to a trusted adult or doctor:
- Very severe pain that does not respond to heat or pain relief
- Missing periods for more than 3 months (after having them regularly)
- Bleeding between periods
- Periods that last longer than 7 days consistently
- Soaking through pads very quickly on multiple days
You Are Not Alone
Every question you have about your period is a valid one. At Happie Moon, we believe every tween and teen deserves honest, kind information about their body. Explore our range of organic period products designed specifically for younger bodies, and remember that your period is a normal, healthy part of growing up.