Starting of the period is an important stage in the life of any girl. It also indicates the beginning of hormonal changes in any girl's body. The first periods come around the age of 10-12 years. Many physical changes take place in the body of girls at this time. At the same time, emotionally many types of questions arise in the mind of any girl during this time. If girls are aware of its symptoms, associated signs and necessary measures even before periods come, then the confusion can be reduced to a great extent. Every mother should prepare her daughter for her first period.

What are the signs seen in the body before the first periods, for how long do they last, and what measures should be taken during this, let us know from the experts. This information is given to us by DrNeema Sharma, Director, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj.

These signs are seen in the body before the first periods

  • Before periods start, hair starts coming into those parts of the body of girls, where they were not there earlier. At this time hair starts coming in hands, legs, underarms and private parts.
  • The onset of white discharge can also be a sign of periods. Generally, white discharge can start about 6 months before the first period.
  • This usually indicates hormonal changes in the body. At this time the amount of estrogen starts increasing.
  • Apart from this, the growth of breasts also indicates the first period.
  • Irritability, change in eating habits and bloating may also occur before periods start.

How can first periods happen?

During the first periods, some girls may have light bleeding and some may have only spotting. For some girls, this happens only for 1-2 days. At the same time, the first period can also last for 7-8 days. The color of the blood may be red or brown and sometimes blood clots may also appear.

Take care of these things in the first period

  • During the first period, any girl needs a lot of support from her mother. These days, how is the pain, how is the flow, all these things should be taken care of.
  • It can be difficult for any girl to tolerate the pain in the first period. But if this pain is too much, then you should not ignore it.
  • You may initially find it difficult to use sanitary pads properly in the first periods, so do not panic, it will take some time to understand things.
  • Change the pads every once in a while. Wearing pads for a long time can cause rashes.
  • Warm compress with hot water when the cramps are more.
  • Avoid taking painkillers.
  • If your clothes get stained, don't panic. Take help from your mother or any elder present nearby.
  • Keep tissue paper or cotton pads with you when you see signs of your period starting?

Image Credit: Freepik