This is totally normal, promise! It’s super common for one breast to start developing before the other. Bodies don’t grow in perfect sync, and your other breast will likely catch up in time.

Even when fully grown, no two breasts are exactly the same think of them as sisters, not twins. A little difference in size or shape is completely normal and nothing to stress about.

If you’re feeling unsure or want to talk more about body changes, check out my blog below for advice and support.

Breast Development & Breast Buds

Night-time pads are designed to keep you comfy and protected while you sleep. They’re usually longer and more absorbent than daytime pads because you wear them for more hours without changing. Some even have a wider section at one end  and here’s the cool part: you can place that wider bit at the front or back of your   underwear depending on how you sleep.

If you move around a lot at night or sleep on your side, the extra coverage helps prevent leaks. I’m a tummy sleeper, so I always place the wider section at the front but it’s totally a personal choice. Try different ways and see what works best for you!

What a great question! There’s no set age you can use tampons from your very first period if you want to!

But lots of people prefer to start with pads and switch to tampons later, maybe after five or six periods. That gives you time to get used to your flow and feel more confident about your cycle.

If you’re just starting out, it’s a good idea to begin with a lower absorbency tampon. They’re smaller, easier to insert, and more comfortable while you’re getting used to things.

Every tampon pack comes with instructions definitely give them a read before you try. They’ll show you how to insert one safely, how often to change it (usually every 4–8 hours), and how to choose the right absorbency for your flow.

Check out my blog below for more advice.

When Is The Right Time To Use A Tampon?

Why you shouldn’t flush tampons, pads or liners down the toilet!

It might seem like no big deal, but flushing tampons, pads or liners can cause serious plumbing problems. These products are super absorbent, which means they can swell up and block the pipes. That could stop your toilet from working and even mess up your neighbours’ toilets too!

If that happens, the sewage company has to come out and fix it, and it can cost a lot of money. So instead of flushing, wrap your used product in toilet paper or the wrapper it came in, and pop it in the bin. It’s cleaner, safer, and way less drama.

Hi, firstly don't worry this is very normal, you see discharge very often dries to a crusty consistency and can appear darker in colour, if it bothers you then my tip would be to use a pant liner on a daily basis to help you feel clean and fresh.

Yes, in some instances you can still get pregnant if you have sexual intercourse when on your period, this is because during your teenage years your cycle can be very erratic and the days when an egg is released can vary. My advice would be to visit your doctor or local sexual health clinic like BPAS and they will not only be able to assist you with a pregnancy test, but also advise you on the best form of contraception for you, including condoms.

I'm really sorry you're going through this. You're not alone, and there are people who care and want to help you. It's very important that you speak to a trusted adult like a parent, teacher, school nurse, or helpline such as Childline as soon as possible. They can support you in getting the help you need, including taking a proper pregnancy test and talking to someone about what happened.

Also, please know that at-home methods like the salt and pee test are not reliable ways to check for pregnancy. They’re just myths and can’t give you accurate results. The only way to know for sure is by using a real pregnancy test from a pharmacy or visiting a doctor or clinic.

You deserve to feel safe and supported. Please don’t try to handle this on your own there are professionals who can help you through this, both emotionally and physically.

You're incredibly brave for speaking up, and you deserve care, respect, and protection, I do hope you will feel brave enough to take this next step.

Hi, getting cramps can be a sign that your period might be on its way soon, but it can also just mean your body is growing and changing (on the inside). Lots of girls feel cramps before their first period, but it doesn’t always mean it’s coming right away.

The best thing you can do is keep an eye on your body’s signals and be prepared. Having a little period kit with you like pads, wipes, and spare underwear when you’re out and about means you’ll be ready just in case. 

Hi, so many girls start with pads and then want to try tampons after a few periods, it’s totally normal. Tampons can feel more discreet, help reduce odour, and are super handy for things like sports or swimming. If you’re feeling ready to give them a go, that’s a great step in learning what works best for your body.

If your mum uses tampons herself, a good way to start the conversation is by asking about her experience. Something like, “Mum, when did you first try tampons?” can open up a natural chat. You could also say, “I know you use tampons and I’ve been thinking they might work better for me sometimes, especially for PE or swimming. I’d like to try them and see how I feel.”

If your mum doesn’t use tampons, you might say something like, “I know you prefer pads and I do like them too, but I’ve been learning about tampons and I think they could be useful sometimes. I’ve done some research and I’d like to try them just to see what works best for me.”

When Is The Right Time To Use A Tampon?

How To Put In A Tampon

I'm really sorry you're going through such a heavy time. What you’ve described feeling low energy, struggling with basic tasks, feeling disconnected, and hurting yourself when things go wrong is something that deserves care, compassion, and support.

You’re not a robot, and you absolutely deserve to feel better and be treated gently, especially by yourself.

Puberty can definitely stir up intense emotions and make everything feel harder, but what you’re experiencing sounds like it goes deeper than that and that’s okay to admit. It’s brave of you to say it out loud. That’s a first step toward healing.
Here are a few gentle suggestions that might help:

Small Steps for Self-Care

Wipe-downs count. If a full shower feels too much, a wipe-down is still caring for yourself. You’re doing your best, and that’s enough for today.

Break tasks into tiny pieces. Instead of “wash hair,” try “brush hair,” then maybe “wet fringe,” and so on. Even one small step is progress.

Set up a cosy corner. A soft blanket, a warm drink, and a calming playlist can help you feel safe and grounded.

When You Feel Like Hurting Yourself

I know it’s hard, but please try to pause and ask: Would I treat a friend this way if they were struggling? You deserve the same kindness. If you can, replace that moment with something soothing like squeezing a stress ball, wrapping yourself in a blanket, or writing down what you’re feeling.

Please Talk to Someone

You don’t have to carry this alone. A trusted adult, like a teacher, school counsellor, or even a helpline can help you feel heard and supported.