Puberty is a time full of many changes that can simultaneously excite and scare you. The most important thing to know is this is not something you need to experience alone! Having someone you are comfortable talking to – like your mom, a close friend or your cool aunt – will empower you during this time of change. The most important thing to remember is that talking about your period is not anything to be embarrassed about, so find someone you trust and start asking questions.   

The best way to prepare for your period is to empower yourself with knowledge for what’s to come. Start by creating a period pouch with all your period necessities; this can include pads, panty liners, and possibly a change of underwear! Visit our First Period page to find additional resources that will support you as you get ready for your first period.

There is no magic age for a girl’s first period, so don’t be alarmed if it doesn’t happen by a certain time. The average age of puberty in the US is 10-11 years old but girls can get their periods as early as 8 or 9 years old and as late as 16. That may sound like a big gap, but each body is different, so what may be happening to your friend might not yet happen to you. If you are concerned that you haven’t gotten your period yet and feel like you should’ve by now, it’s best to consult your doctor. 

Puberty begins at different ages for everyone. A few telltale signs your period may be around the corner include hormonal acne, budding breasts, pubic hair and growth spurts. Girls commonly experience a growth spurt and may even notice that their hips are widening. This is your body's way of preparing you to be able to give birth later on in life! Don’t be alarmed if you begin to experience light discharge that is clear or milk-colored prior to getting your period. Although it may be inconvenient, it’s completely normal and can easily be helped by using a panty liner.

A normal period cycle can last anywhere between 3 to 7 days in which your flow will vary. You will experience your heaviest flow during the first few days of your period and will notice it gets lighter as the days go on. Irregular periods are not uncommon when you initially start your period, but your period should become regular within a few years, once you start ovulating monthly. Using a period tracker app can help you understand your cycle and be prepared for your next period.

During the first few days of your period you may feel more tired than usual, and that is completely normal! Take it easy during these first few days – a gentle yoga class or light stretching may be what your body needs. This is a time to really listen to your body and honor how it feels. Self love is the best way to practice self care!

Although your period will bring certain pains and discomfort, it shouldn’t stop you from going about your everyday life. Knowing what you can do for yourself during your period is essential for feeling confident in going about your daily routine. One tip in reducing period cramps and backaches is staying hydrated and eating iron-rich foods. Go grab that water bottle and start hydrating!

The pain you feel in your stomach is caused by cramps – you're working your muscles without even knowing it! Cramps occur when your uterus muscles contract, pushing blood from your vagina. To ease the discomfort of cramps, we recommend trying one of our favorite heating pads from a fellow female brand, Girl Co.'s. Cuddle up on the couch or in bed with peppermint tea, a cozy blanket, and a heating pad – and relax! 

Your menstrual cycle varies between 24-35 days and during this time your body’s hormonal levels are changing which will contribute to your mood changes. At the beginning of your menstrual cycle, your hormone levels are at their lowest causing you to feel sluggish and tired. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you are feeling out of sorts, your mood will lift in the next few days of your cycle. 

Everyone’s menstruation cycle is different, but the phases we don’t all experience the same phases. Your period should occur once a month, but it is not uncommon for new menstruators to have irregular periods, which could mean not getting your period for several months or only having it a few days each month. Your period should regulate on it’s own after the first few years of having a period. If you’re concerned your period is irregular, talk with a trusted adult and consult with your doctor. There may be nothing to worry about, but it is always better to speak up about any concerns. 

Finding what’s right for you and your body is an important step in feeling comfortable with the changes you are experiencing. Your period shouldn’t stop you from doing what you love. Are you a dancer? A soccer goalie? Horseback rider? Your period shouldn’t get in the way of these activities. Figuring out the best fit for you is the first step in taking control of your period. Play around with each of these products by unwrapping them and familiarizing yourself with their differences.

TOP has created additional resource guides on how to use tampons, pads, and liners so you can learn more about each of these period products and what might be right for you.  

Pads and panty liners are both great products to use throughout your period for different purposes. Pads are designed to offer full coverage for your flow. The difference between a day pad and a night pad is the thickness and length of the pad, which is intended to hold more or less menstrual blood, respectively. Panty liners are like your best friend, always there to back you up! These thin liners are helpful when using a tampon on days you experience a heavier flow and want a little extra security. They can also fly solo at the end of your period when you’re experiencing light spotting or discharge. 

Yes! If you experience a heavy flow, you’re not alone. Many young girls and women choose to double protect themselves on heavier days. This means using a tampon and a pad or liner to feel extra secure and comfortable.

First and foremost, you should not experience any discomfort when using a tampon! Tampons are inserted into the vagina to absorb blood during menstruation and expand as they soak up menstrual blood. Different sizes of tampons match the flow of your period; for example, you may use a super tampon on heavy days and a regular tampon on lighter days.

If you experience any discomfort or pain, your tampon may not be inserted correctly. We suggest first trying a tampon on a heavier day, as it may be more comfortable to put in. With a compact applicator, make sure to gently pull down on the inner tube of the applicator prior to insertion. The most important thing when using a tampon is making sure the applicator is not left inside your vagina. If you’re having a hard time using a tampon, don’t be discouraged. Take a break, breathe and try again later! 

It is typical to keep a tampon in for anywhere between 4 to 8 hours. But remember, it is recommended to NOT leave it in any longer than that. If the string of your tampon is showing blood that is a good indicator it’s time to change your tampon, as that one has reached its maximum absorbency. After removing your tampon, wrap it in toilet paper and discharge in the trash. You will not want to flush your tampon down the toilet, as it can be damaging to the sewage system.

The most important difference is the fact that one is made out of cardboard while the other is a plant-based alternative made from sugar cane. Both of these tampons still go inside your vagina but look and feel different. Some women find that the plant-based applicator is easier to use, as it is smoother than the cardboard applicator, but the choice is completely dependent on what each person prefers. If using the cardboard applicator, make sure to twist the applicator prior to insertion.