Hi there, first of all, try not to worry if you haven't started your period yet. At 13, it's completely normal to still be waiting. Everyone develops at their own pace, and some girls start as early as 8 or 9, while others don't start until their mid-teens.

When your period does arrive, I'd usually suggest using pads for the first few periods. This gives you a chance to get used to period blood, learn what your flow is like, and become familiar with your cycle before trying internal period products.

As for tampons, it's a common misconception that younger girls can't use them because their bodies are smaller. The size of a tampon is based on how much blood it can absorb, not the size of the vagina. A "super" tampon isn't much wider than a regular one when inserted – it simply expands more as it absorbs menstrual blood.

If and when you decide to try tampons, start with a lite or regular absorbency tampon. These are often easier and more comfortable for beginners. Use the lowest absorbency that comfortably manages your flow, and only move up to a higher absorbency if you find you're bleeding through too quickly.

Finally many girls are worried a tampon won't fit or will be uncomfortable, but when inserted correctly, you shouldn't really feel it. If it hurts or feels uncomfortable, it may not be in far enough, or you may need to try a smaller absorbency.

The most important thing is to choose the period product that makes you feel comfortable and confident. There is no rush to use tampons, and plenty of people continue using pads, period pants, or a combination of products for years.

When your first period arrives, come back and we can have another chat. 

Hi, this question was answered this morning, why not type in HPV in the search box if you cannot remember your original reference code and you will find it very easily.

Hi, I can see you've given this a lot of thought, but I wonder if you might be overthinking things a little.

It's quite common to find some people at work easier to talk to one-to-one than in a group setting, and I don't think there's any need to plan a big conversation around it. I also wouldn't worry too much about mentioning that there was something else you wanted to talk about. Most people won't hold you to that.

My advice would be to let future conversations unfold naturally rather than rehearsing them in advance. Very often, what we plan to say in our heads comes out differently when we're actually chatting with someone.

One other thing I'd gently mention is that this forum is mainly aimed at pre-teens and teenagers, with a focus on puberty, periods and growing up. While I'm always happy to answer a variety of questions, I do wonder whether you might benefit from a more suitable forum, or source of support for some of the workplace and relationship questions you've been asking, as you may receive more tailored advice there.

Hi, I think your messages sound warm, genuine and appropriate. At this stage, I'd try not to overthink what might happen next.

Sending messages via social media is far more appropriate than private messaging for your old friends, it's worth sending a message and seeing if they reply. If they do, focus on enjoying a simple conversation and catching up on what's been happening in each other's lives.

Your message to your former line manager is thoughtful and appreciative, and I'm sure they would be pleased to hear the positive impact the placement had on you.
For now, I'd concentrate on reaching out and seeing what response you get. There's no need to plan further ahead until you've had the chance to reconnect.

That sounds like a great idea, best of luck.👍🏻

There is no right or wrong amount when it comes to exploring your body. Everyone is different, and what feels normal varies from person to person. However, if you find yourself masturbating several times a day, it may be worth asking yourself whether you're doing it because of sexual desire or simply because you're bored. Often, boredom can be a contributing factor.

Hi there, what a great question! 😊

You're absolutely right that the HPV vaccine has had an amazing impact. Since it was introduced, there has been a huge reduction in HPV infections and cervical cancer cases in young women. In fact, studies have shown that girls who received the vaccine at a younger age have a dramatically lower risk of developing cervical cancer later in life. 

Even though the HPV vaccine gives excellent protection, it doesn't protect against every single type of HPV that can cause cervical cancer. Because of this, women are still invited for cervical screening from age 25 in England.

As for Year 9 jabs, this can vary slightly depending on where you live, but many students in England are offered:

• The MenACWY vaccine, which helps protect against meningitis and septicaemia.
• The 3-in-1 teenage booster, which tops up protection against tetanus, diphtheria and polio. 

The good news is that by having your HPV vaccine, you've already done something really important to protect your future health. 💜Vicki 

Hi! During puberty, your body is changing almost every day, and it can take a while for your brain to catch up with those changes. 💜

What you're describing is actually really common. Lots of girls notice that they look different depending on the angle they're standing at, the clothes they're wearing, or even the time of day. That doesn't mean you're overweight or that there's anything wrong with your body.

Try to remember:

• Your body is still growing and developing.
• Most people don't look the same from every angle.
• Puberty can make you feel more aware of your appearance.
• Being self-conscious doesn't mean there's something wrong with you.

My advice is to take a step back and let your body do its job. Focus on what your body can do rather than how it looks, and be kind to yourself while these changes are happening.

From what you've said, it sounds like you're being much harder on yourself than anyone else would be. Your body is working exactly as it should, and there's no "fix" needed.

You're perfect just the way you are. 💜Vicki 

Hi lovely,
From everything you've described, it sounds like your body is making great progress through puberty. 💜

You've noticed:

• Breast development for around 2 years.
• Pubic hair for about 18 months.
• Armpit hair getting darker recently.
• A big growth spurt that's just finished.
• Daily vaginal discharge.
• Spots and skin breakouts.
• Mood swings.

These are all really positive signs that your body is developing normally.
Nobody can predict exactly when a first period will arrive, but based on what you've shared, I don't think you'll have too much longer to wait.

One thing to remember is that a first period isn't always bright red. It can start as:

• Brown spotting.
• Dark brown discharge.
• Rust-coloured stains.

So keep an eye out for those too.

If I had to give a rough estimate, I'd guess your period may arrive later this year or early 2027. That's only an educated guess, but your body seems to be showing many of the signs that periods are getting closer.

Try not to worry that your mum started younger than you. Even family members can get their periods at very different ages.

Your body sounds like it's doing exactly what it should, and I have a feeling your first period will be here before you know it! Vicki 💜 

Okay, firstly, let's take a deep breath and go through each of your worries one by one. 💜

🩸 What if my first period starts on holiday?
If your first period hasn't arrived yet but you're noticing signs of puberty, it makes perfect sense to pack some period products just in case.

I'd suggest taking:

• 1 pack of day pads
• 1 pack of night pads
• A few pantyliners

That should be plenty for a one-week holiday. And remember, if your period does arrive and you somehow run low, there will almost certainly be shops nearby where you can buy more pads. So you definitely don't need to worry about running out.

🏊 What if I start my period in the swimming pool?
This is a really common worry, but try not to panic.

If your first period happened while you were in the pool, it's very unlikely that there would suddenly be lots of visible blood in the water. The amount would usually be very small, and the pool water would dilute it. Most people wouldn't notice anything at all.

If you're concerned that your period might be starting, simply take a couple of pads with you in your pool bag so you're prepared when you get out of the water.

🧳 What if airport security finds my pads?
Honestly, please don't worry about this one.

Airport security staff see pads, pantyliners, tampons, medicines, baby supplies and all sorts of personal items every single day. It's a completely normal thing to pack.

You can put most of your pads in your suitcase and keep a few in your hand luggage if you'd like. Nobody will think it's strange, and the staff won't be judging you. It's just an everyday item to them.

✈️ My biggest advice
Try not to let your holiday be spoiled by "what if" thoughts. It sounds like you've already thought ahead and planned for the possibility of your period starting, which is exactly what being prepared looks like.

Pack a few supplies, enjoy your holiday, go swimming, have fun, and remember that if your period does decide to make its first appearance while you're away, you can handle it. 💪

Have an amazing first trip abroad! Vicki 💜

Hi💜

Summer breaks are funny, aren't they? We count down the days until they arrive, then suddenly we're wondering how we're going to fill another month! The good news is that you don't need lots of money or big plans to stop boredom creeping in.

My biggest tip is to have a two-pronged approach:

📚 Start a long-term project

Choose something that will keep you busy over several weeks, such as:

• Reading a book series.
• Learning a new skill, like drawing, crochet, baking or photography.
• Keeping a summer journal or scrapbook.
• Training for a fitness challenge, such as walking a certain distance each week.

Having something ongoing gives you a reason to get up and do something each day.

🌞 Get out and about

Mix in activities that get you away from screens and out of the house:

• Message friends and arrange a meet-up.
• Visit grandparents or other relatives and see if they need a hand with anything.
• Safely go for walks in local parks or nature trails.
• Have a picnic with friends or family.
• Explore somewhere nearby that you've never visited before.

💃 Learn something new

If you're allowed on YouTube or TikTok, why not:

• Learn a dance routine. (I'm currently learning a Bruno Mars one!!
• Try a simple workout challenge.
• Follow an art or craft tutorial. (my youngest daughter loves these)
• Learn a few phrases in a new language.
• Have a go at a beginner's cooking or baking video.

🧹 Give your room a refresh

This might not sound exciting, but it can be surprisingly satisfying!

• Sort through clothes and donate anything you no longer wear.
• Throw away worn-out or broken items.
• Rearrange your room.
• Organise books, makeup, accessories or stationery.
• Create a cosy reading or relaxation corner.

🎨 Get crafty

Crafting is one of my favourite boredom-busters because it's calming and keeps your hands busy. You could try:

• Bracelet making.
• Painting.
• Scrapbooking.
• Diamond art.
• Knitting or crochet.
• Making gifts for friends and family.

Remember, you don't have to be busy every minute of every day. A bit of downtime is healthy too. Try choosing one thing that keeps you busy for the whole summer and one small activity each day, and you'll probably find the weeks go much faster than you think.

Enjoy the rest of your summer! Vicki 💜

Hi, in many cases, if you and your baby are healthy and there are no complications, doctors and midwives will usually recommend a vaginal birth because it's generally associated with a quicker recovery and fewer risks than major surgery.

However, in some areas, it may be possible to request a caesarean birth even if there isn't a medical reason. This is something you'd discuss with your maternity team, who would explain the benefits and risks of both options and help you make an informed decision.

It's also important to remember that a C-section is a major abdominal operation. While it can be the safest and best option when there are concerns about the health of the mother or baby, recovery can take longer than after a straightforward vaginal birth.

As someone who had my first child by C-section, I know they can be absolutely necessary and lifesaving when needed. But it's worth knowing that there are now many options for pain relief during labour, and for many women, a vaginal birth is less physically demanding on the body overall.

Every pregnancy and birth is different, so there isn't one "right" way to give birth. The most important thing is choosing the safest option for you and your baby with the support of your healthcare team.

Vicki 💜

Caesarean Birth – What To Expect!

Hi there, if you're trying tampons for the first time, I'd usually recommend starting with a lite (or light) absorbency tampon if your flow is light to moderate. Many people find smaller tampons a little easier and more comfortable to insert while they're getting used to the feeling.

Using a pantyliner as a backup for the first few times is also a great idea. It can help you feel more confident while you work out how often you need to change your tampon and whether the absorbency is right for your flow.

Once you've become comfortable using tampons, you can decide if you need to move up to a regular absorbency on heavier flow days. The general rule is to use the lowest absorbency that comfortably manages your period flow.

Here's my top tips:

• Relax as much as possible before inserting a tampon.
• Follow the instructions in the packet carefully.
• If insertion feels painful, try again later when your flow is a little heavier, as this can make insertion easier.
• Change your tampon regularly and never wear for longer than 8 hours.

Remember, there's no rush. It can take a couple of cycles to get the hang of using tampons, and that's completely normal. 💜

You are most welcome.💜

Hi, I don't think it's strange to wonder what happened to old friends, especially when the pandemic disrupted such an important time in your life. Many people feel as though they missed out on opportunities to maintain friendships or say proper goodbyes, so you're certainly not alone in that.

If there are former school, college, or university friends you'd genuinely like to reconnect with, a simple message such as, "Hi, I was thinking about you recently and wondered how you're doing?" on a social media platform like Instagram, snapchat or Facebook is perfectly reasonable. The important thing is to send the message without any expectations. Some people may be delighted to hear from you, while others may have moved on, and both responses are okay.

As for your former line manager, I think it's lovely that you still appreciate the opportunity they gave you. A brief message thanking them and letting them know the placement had a positive impact on you would be entirely appropriate. However, I'd be careful about putting pressure on the relationship or expecting it to become something more than a professional connection.

One thing I would gently say is that reconnecting works best when both people show an interest in keeping the conversation going. Send a friendly message if you'd like to, but then allow the other person space to decide whether and how they would like to respond.

Sometimes closure comes from expressing gratitude or saying hello, rather than from rebuilding the relationship itself.💜

Hi, firstly, no, I don't think you've "ruined" anything. 

However, I do think you're starting to overthink this relationship and perhaps placing a lot of importance on interactions that the other person may see as simple workplace conversations.

It's worth remembering that this colleague is still relatively new, and when someone joins a workplace they are often busy settling in, building relationships with lots of people, and finding their feet. Sometimes they may want to chat, and other times they may prefer to spend their lunch break alone or doing something else. That's completely okay.

What stood out to me from your question is that when lunch didn't happen, you quickly looked for another opportunity to connect. Whilst your intentions sound genuinely kind, it's important to be mindful of personal and professional boundaries, particularly with newer colleagues. Friendships tend to develop best when both people are choosing the same level of contact, rather than one person doing most of the organising.

Your message thanking them for being nice to talk to wasn't inappropriate, but I think you've said what you wanted to say now. Rather than analysing it further, I'd step back a little and give them space to initiate contact sometimes too.

Healthy friendships and workplace relationships shouldn't feel as though they need to be constantly managed and it's important to be mindful that colleagues may not always want the same level of friendship or contact that we do, and that's perfectly okay. If this connection is meant to grow, it will do so naturally over time.

For now, my advice would be to focus on friendly, interactions every now and then and let things develop at a pace that feels comfortable for both of you.💜

Hi there, firstly, this is not a stupid question, and you're definitely not being dramatic. 💜 When something about your appearance changes, especially at 15, it's completely normal to feel self-conscious about it.

I'm wondering whether your dentist removed those teeth to create space and help the rest of your teeth come through properly. That's actually quite common. In fact, it happened to me when I was a young teenager too - I had five teeth removed. Eek! 😅

Right now, all you can see are the gaps, but your dentist will be looking at the bigger picture. These treatments are often done to help your teeth align better in the long run.

I also think you're probably being much harder on yourself than anyone else is. When we're feeling insecure, it's easy to look around and think everyone else has perfect teeth, but the reality is that lots of teenagers are wearing braces, waiting for teeth to come through, or dealing with all sorts of dental treatment.

For now, if smiling with your mouth open makes you uncomfortable, it's absolutely fine to smile with your lips closed. But please don't stop smiling altogether. Your smile is so much more than a couple of gaps, and the people who care about you will notice your happiness long before they notice your teeth.

Give yourself some time. This stage won't last forever, and one day you'll look back and realise it was just a small part of your journey to the smile you're meant to have. 💜

Firstly, be kind to yourself. 💜

From what you've written, you've been through a lot, and yet you've still worked hard to understand yourself, find healthier ways to cope, and move forward. That's something to be really proud of.

What you're describing doesn't sound like you've failed or gone backwards. In fact, I think it's quite the opposite. Even when life is going well, most of us still have moments where a wave of sadness, worry, or self-doubt appears out of nowhere. It can feel confusing when you've been having a good day and suddenly everything seems darker for a while.

Something I often remind people is that a bad moment doesn't erase all the progress you've made. Recovery isn't about never having difficult thoughts again - it's about learning how to handle them when they come. And from your question, it sounds as though you're already doing that much better than before.

When these "blips" happen, try not to fight them or panic that you're back at square one. Instead, remind yourself, "This is just a moment, not my whole future." Then do something that brings you a sense of calm, whether that's reading, listening to music, going for a walk, journalling, or talking to someone you trust.

I also think it's important to recognise just how far you've come. You've survived a rough patch, made a difficult decision about a relationship, and learnt a lot about who you are. That's not easy, and it deserves credit.

Be patient with yourself. Healing isn't a straight line, and nobody feels positive every single day. The fact that you're having more good days and noticing these moments as exceptions tells me you're moving in the right direction. 💜

Honestly, my view is that period tracker apps for tweens aren't always that helpful.

When you're new to periods, or waiting for your first period, your cycle can be quite unpredictable as your body goes through puberty. An app can't see what's happening inside your body, so it can only make a guess based on previous periods. Sometimes this leads to girls feeling worried or anxious when their period doesn't arrive on the day the app predicts.

Instead of relying on a tracker, I usually suggest keeping a small period kit in your school bag or PE bag with a couple of pads and a spare pair of underwear. That way, you're always prepared, no matter when your period decides to show up.

If you'd still like to keep a record, a simple note in a diary, calendar, or the notes app on your tablet of the day your period starts can be useful. Over time, you'll begin to spot your own pattern without feeling like you have to match an app's prediction.

Remember, in the first few years after a first period, irregular cycles are very common, so try not to worry if your periods don't arrive like clockwork. 💜

If you love noodles in a flask, there's nothing wrong with that! 😊 One thing I would suggest is trying to make them a little more filling and nutritious by adding some extras. Noodles are mostly carbohydrates, so adding a source of protein and some vegetables can help keep you going for longer during the school day.

Some easy additions include:

• Chopped chicken
• Scrambled egg
• Sweetcorn
• Peas
• Grated carrot

If you're a picky eater, don't feel you have to add lots at once. Even one extra ingredient is a great first step.

You could also try:

• Pasta with a little cheese
• Rice with chicken and sweetcorn
• Tomato pasta
• Mac and cheese
• Mini sausages with pasta
• Egg fried rice

The best school lunch is one you'll actually enjoy eating, so start with foods you already like and make small changes from there. 💜