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10 Common Period Questions Answered

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We get it. You have tens of hundreds of questions surrounding periods, puberty, and menstruation. And finding a verifiable resource online or offline is not easy. To top it, menstruation continues to be veiled with shame and secrecy that makes it even more difficult to understand the subject. We get it, so here's some help.

Here we answer some of the most common period questions that are bound to be asked by every girl before or during their puberty. The answers to these questions will give you a better understanding, so you feel more confident about the way your body responds naturally.

1.	[What is a period? How often does it occur?](#link1)
2.	[What does a period feel like?](#link2)
3.	[Does period blood have an odour?](#link3)
4.	[Is menstruation painful?](#link4)
5.	[I got my period, but I am unsure of how to tell my mother. What should I do?](#link5)
6.	[Is it safe to have a bath or shower when on my period?](#link6)
7.	[Can I go to school and perform other activities when on my period?](#link7)
8.	[Will anyone notice that I am on period?](#link8)
9.	[How much blood do I lose when on my period?](#link9)
10.	[When will my menstrual cycle end for good?](#link10)

What is a period? How often does it occur?

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<h2 class="cardimgtexth2">What is a period? How often does it occur?</h2>

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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

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<h2 class="cardimgtexth2">What does a period feel like?</h2>

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You will feel dampness around your vagina during your period. This is because of the fluid that drips on to your underwear. You may use ALWAYS [sanitary pads](/sanitary-pads) that hold the flow and prevent it from staining your underwear and clothes.

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.

Does period blood have an odour?

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<h2 class="cardimgtexth2">Does period blood have an odour?</h2>

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No, as opposed to the popular opinion, menstrual blood does not generally have an odour. The fluid smells foul when it comes in contact with the air. To keep the odour at bay, you can use sanitary pads or [tampons](https://always-africa.com/en-za/tampons) and change them regularly to keep your vagina and surrounding areas clean. If you experience menstrual odour despite proper hygiene, you must consult a doctor. 

Is menstruation painful?

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<h2 class="cardimgtexth2">Is menstruation painful?</h2>

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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?

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<h2 class="cardimgtexth2">I got my period, but I am unsure of how to tell my mother. What should I do?</h2>

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Talking to your mom or your guardian about your periods is highly recommended. Knowing that they will understand your concerns and be sensitive to your situation is the first step here. The best way to discuss is to sit down with your mom and put down your concerns. She will be extremely understanding and helpful as she has also gone through the same phase during her youth. If your mother is not available, you may speak with an aunt, a teacher, an older sister, or a friend. You can have this conversation with anyone with whom you are comfortable.

Is it safe to have a bath or shower when on my period?

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<h2 class="cardimgtexth2">Is it safe to have a bath or shower when on my period?</h2>

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Yes, it is completely safe. It is essential to keep the body and the vaginal area clean during your [menstrual cycle](/tips-and-advice-for-girls-and-parents/period-guide/your-menstrual-cycle-phases-a-basic-guide). 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?

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<h2 class="cardimgtexth2">Can I go to school and perform other activities when on my period?</h2>

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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.

Will anyone notice that I am on period?

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<h2 class="cardimgtexth2">Will anyone notice that I am on period?</h2>

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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?

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<h2 class="cardimgtexth2">How much blood do I lose when on my period?</h2>

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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.

You are likely to lose about 1/4 cup of blood during your period.

When will my menstrual cycle end for good?

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<h2 class="cardimgtexth2">When will my menstrual cycle end for good?</h2>

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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](/sanitary-pads), [panty liners](/panty-liners) and [tampons](https://always-africa.com/en-za/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](/tips-and-advice-for-girls-and-parents/period-guide/period-symptoms-signs-you-are-getting-your-period), [causes of irregular periods](/tips-and-advice-for-girls-and-parents/period-guide/what-causes-irregular-periods) and [what causes period pains](/tips-and-advice-for-girls-and-parents/period-guide/why-you-may-be-getting-heavy-painful-periods).


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Stay well prepared for your next period by tracking it on Always [Period Calculator](/period-calculator).

Have common period questions like how often does a period occur? How long do periods last? Click here to have all your menstruation questions answered by experts.

10 Common Period Questions Answered

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