10 Common questions on period answered
You’ve just begun menstruating and have all these questions buzzing in your head. True, you’ve received “the talk” from your parent but there are so many questions that you have now that you’ve actually got your period. And while your mom is your go-to person to fire these questions at, at times you just don’t seem to muster the courage to ask certain questions.
As a teenager, you may have certain inhibitions about using pads, especially when it’s your first time. You may want to know if there are pads for teenagers out there, if it’s okay to use tampons and whether there are any tampons for beginners. Don't worry, we understand and are here to help. We’ve curated a list on 10 questions on periods, puberty and menstruation that are most commonly asked. We hope the answers help resolve your queries and give you some confidence to be more comfortable with your body and its functions.
- What is a period? How often does it occur?
- What does a period feel like?
- Does period blood have an odour?
- Is menstruation painful?
- I got my period, but I am unsure of how to tell my mother. What should I do?
- Is it safe to have a bath or shower when on my period?
- Can I go to school and perform other activities when on my period?
- Will anyone notice that I am on period?
- How much blood do I lose when on my period?
- When will my menstrual cycle end for good?
What is a period? How often does it occur?
A period is a normal function of a woman's body wherein it releases unwanted tissue cells and impurities. These tissue cells are released by the uterus, a muscular organ that nurtures and develops a baby (foetus). Every month, the lining of the uterus gets thicker and prepares to hold a fertilized egg in case of conception. However, when the egg doesn't get fertilized, the lining tissue is released from the body as period blood through the vagina. This monthly process is known as menstruation or getting a period.
When you get your period, it is your uterus releasing the lining of blood and unwanted tissue cells that have accumulated throughout the month.
What does a period feel like?
Periods can sometimes be painful, especially in the initial stages. But your body will soon adapt to the changes and you will get used to it.
Periods can sometimes be painful, especially in the initial stages. But your body will soon adapt to the changes and you will get used to it.
You will feel dampness around your vagina during your period. This is because of the fluid that drips on to your underwear. You can use ALWAYS sanitary pads that hold the flow and prevent it from staining your underwear and clothes. You may want your pad to be discrete so use the ALWAYS Ultra Thin Pads which is a great pad for teenagers as they provide Superior Fit so you can perform your daily activities with ultimate ease and control. It is made using Supreme Quality material and design for maximum safety and upto 100% comfortable protection. Its Super Absorbent Core with InstantDry System that absorbs wetness in seconds.
Another suitable pad for teenagers is the ALWAYS Platinum Ultra Thin Pads which come with a neutralising technology with a light scent that locks away odour. It has a soft non-woven topsheet that offers best protection and comfort. Equipped with a gel-based Extra Absorbent Core, it instantly locks in the menstrual discharge. Experience ultimate comfort with Cottony-Soft Micro-Cushions coupled with Leakage Barriers that offer quick absorption.
Does period blood have an odour?
No, as opposed to the popular opinion, menstrual blood does not generally have an odour. The fluid as mells foul when it comes in contact with the air. To keep the odour at bay, you can use sanitary pads or tampons and change them regularly to keep your vagina and surrounding areas clean. If tampons are your preferred choice of period product, then ALWAYS Tampax Compak are great tampons for beginners. These tampons come with a smooth, compact applicator for discretion, and a built-in protective skirt to help prevent leakage for up to 8 hours. They also come in different absorbency variants such as Lite, Regular, Super and Super Plus, so you can choose which one suits your flow the during your period. This feature makes it a comfortable tampon for first-time users.
If you experience menstrual odour despite proper hygiene, you must consult a doctor.
Is menstruation painful?
Periods can sometimes be painful. Some girls experience period symptoms in the form of cramps before and during their period. This discomfort and pain are a result of hormonal changes in the body. The released hormones cause the uterus to contract so it can get rid of the unwanted tissue. Every woman's body is different, which can also influence pain levels. They also depend on the day of the cycle.
I got my period, but I am unsure of how to tell my mother. What should I do?
Is it safe to have a bath or shower when on my period?
Yes, it is completely safe. It is essential to keep the body and the vaginal area clean during your menstrual cycle. A quick shower will also help you stay fresh and feel confident.
Can I go to school and perform other activities when on my period?
Pro Tip: You may use ALWAYS feminine hygiene products to better manage your periods.
Yes. Your period does not have to hamper or stop you from leading a normal life. You can still go to school, play sport, help in the household chores, meet your friends, and do anything and everything that you want to do when on your period.
Pro Tip: You may use ALWAYS feminine hygiene products to better manage your periods. They have a variety of pads and you can choose which pad suits you, as a teenager.
Will anyone notice that I am on period?
No. No one will know that you are on your period. If your family members or friends do ask you, it is up to you if you want to share with them or not.
How much blood do I lose when on my period?
You are likely to lose about 1/4 cup of blood during your period.
You are likely to lose about 1/4 cup of blood during your period. However, you do not have to worry as your body is equipped to handle this flow and makes up for it.
When will my menstrual cycle end for good?
Women go through the monthly period cycle until menopause - when one can no longer conceive children. Menopause usually sets in the age of late 40s or early 50s. However, it can also happen outside this window.
Now that you are armed with all the essential information surrounding your period, we wish you happy menstruation. ALWAYS aims to support you and make your menstrual days easier. Our products like sanitary pads, panty liners and tampons are designed to lend you comfort and ease during 'that time of the month'. Do not hesitate to reach out for help and support whenever you feel like your body is behaving weirdly. Help is always around.
Read more about period symptoms, causes of irregular periods and what causes period pains.
Stay well prepared for your next period by tracking it on Always Period Calculator.
FAQs
1. When does menstruation begin?
On average, menstruation begins around the age of 12. However, in some cases, it might begin as early as 8 years of age. Your first period can last anywhere between 2 to 7 days.2. Why are periods so painful?
Periods are sometimes so painful because when your uterus contracts to expel the menstrual discharge, it puts pressure on the surrounding blood vessels. All of which momentarily cuts off the oxygen supply to the uterus muscle causing discomfort.3. Why do periods hurt so much on the first day?
The level of prostaglandins in your body is relatively high on day 1 of your periods. This causes your uterus to contract strongly which results in painful periods.Disclaimer
Please note the date of last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from your doctor or other qualified clinician. Always is committed to ensuring that all of our products meet rigorous safety standards; Always pads prioritize safety, protection and comfort of its consumers.
