Hi ❤️

From what you've said, being almost 14 and not having started your period yet is still completely within the normal range. I was nearly 15 when mine arrived, and lots of girls don't get their first period until their mid-teens.

It's easy to compare yourself to friends or siblings, but we all develop at different rates. Some girls start as young as 8 or 9, while others don't start until 15, 16 or even later. What's most important is that your body is showing signs of puberty, such as breast development, growth spurts, body hair and discharge.

I do wonder whether you've ever noticed a little brown discharge in your underwear. Sometimes a first period isn't bright red and can look brown instead. (It's not always bright red!)

As for when to see a doctor, it's generally worth speaking to one if you've reached your late teens and still haven't had a first period, or if you're concerned about your development for any reason. But at almost 14, there is usually plenty of time for your body to do things in its own way.

Regarding your sister, missing periods in your 20s can happen for lots of different reasons. Things like stress, changes in weight, some medical conditions, and certain forms of contraception can all affect periods. The fact that she's getting support from her doctor and has been given hormones suggests she's doing exactly the right thing by getting it checked out.

Nothing you've told me that sounds unusual for someone who is almost 14 and still waiting for their first period. It can feel like a long wait when everyone else seems to be starting theirs, but your body is working to its own timetable. 💖

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

It's a little bit of a myth that if you have period cramps one month, you'll always have exactly the same cramps every month. That's certainly not the case, especially during puberty when your hormones can be a bit unpredictable!

During your teens, it's very common for one period to feel quite different from the next. One month you might have stronger cramps, a heavier flow, and feel a bit tired or emotional. The next month, your period might be lighter and you may barely notice any cramping at all.

This happens because your body is still learning how to regulate its hormones and menstrual cycle. As a result, symptoms such as period pain, bloating, headaches, and mood changes can vary from month to month.

As you get older, your periods often become more regular, and you'll start to recognise your own pattern. Some people continue to have cramps, while others find they become milder over time.

Having a month with worse cramps doesn't automatically mean the next one will be the same. Our bodies are constantly changing, especially during puberty, and a bit of variation is completely normal.

Irregular period symptoms, changing period cramps, and puberty hormones are all common experiences for teens, so you're definitely not alone. ❤️

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

Lots of girls wonder this, especially if they're expecting their first period.

Usually, you'll know you've started your period when you notice blood in your pants, on toilet paper, or in the toilet after using it. The blood might be bright red, dark red, brown, or even look a bit rusty coloured. All of these can be completely normal.

Sometimes a period starts with just a few spots of blood, while other times it can be enough to need a period pad straight away. Some girls also notice signs beforehand, such as discharge, mild cramps, bloating, tender breasts, headaches, or feeling a little more emotional than usual. But not everyone gets these signs.

The important thing to remember is that there isn't always a big warning. Many girls only realise their first period has started when they go to the toilet or get changed and spot some blood.

The good news is that if you're carrying a period pad or have one available at home or school, you'll be prepared whenever it happens. And even if your first period catches you by surprise, that's completely normal too.

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

That's a really good question, and something lots of people wonder about.

Not everyone gets period cramps. Some people never experience them at all, while others get them every month. Some only get them occasionally. We are all different.

Period cramps happen because the muscles of the uterus (womb) contract to help push out the blood and tissue that make up your period. These contractions can feel like a dull ache, a tight feeling, or sometimes a stronger pain in your lower tummy or back.

The good thing is that there are ways to help ease cramps. Many people find that keeping active can make a big difference. Although you might feel like curling up on the sofa, gentle exercise such as walking, stretching, dancing or swimming can help relax the muscles and reduce discomfort. A warm bath, hot water bottle or heat pad can also be very soothing.

If you're new to periods, it can be reassuring to know that cramps don't always stay the same. Some people find they improve as they get older, while others only get mild cramps from time to time.

If period pain is ever so bad that it stops you going to school, sleeping, or enjoying your normal activities, it's worth speaking to a parent, carer or healthcare professional.

Vicki ❤️

For lots of girls, the first sign that their first period has arrived is simply spotting blood on the toilet paper, in their underwear, or sometimes even on their bed sheets when they wake up. Because periods can start at any time of the day or night, you don't always get much warning.

That said, your body often drops a few hints first. As you're 10, have you noticed any signs of puberty such as vaginal discharge, pubic hair, breast development, or feeling a bit more emotional at times? If you have, those can all be signs that your first period may be getting closer.

The tricky thing is that nobody can tell exactly when a first period will start. For some girls it arrives a few months after these changes begin, while for others it can take a couple of years.

It might be a good idea to put together a small period kit for your school bag now. You could include a couple of period pads, a spare pair of underwear and perhaps some wipes. That way, if your period does arrive when you're out and about, you'll feel prepared and confident.

And remember, when your first period comes, it doesn't have to be perfect! Most girls feel a bit surprised, nervous or even excited. Whatever you feel is completely normal.

If you'd like to learn more, I've written several blogs about first periods, puberty, and how to prepare for your period, which you might find helpful.

Vicki ❤️

5 Signs Your First Period Might Be On The Way

My First Period

Period Tips for School

Hi ❤️It's funny isn't it, we talk about periods all the time on our chats, but we often never ask this basic question, so thank you for asking.

A period is a sign that your body is maturing and going through puberty. It's part of your body's natural monthly cycle and is completely normal.

Your body starts preparing for the possibility of a pregnancy long before you'll ever need to think about having children. That doesn't mean you have to want a baby in the future. It's simply one of the jobs your body is designed to do as it grows up.

Each month, the lining of the uterus (womb) builds up with blood and nutrients. If a pregnancy were to happen, this lining would help support and nourish the developing baby.

If you're not pregnant, your body realises that lining isn't needed. The womb then gently contracts and sheds the blood and nutrients through the vagina. This is what we call a period.

When you first start your periods, they can be quite unpredictable. They may be light or heavy, short or long, and sometimes you might even skip a month. That's completely normal while your body is learning its new rhythm.

Although periods can sometimes be annoying, they're a normal part of puberty and a sign that your reproductive system is developing as expected.

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

No, periods do not stop when you're in water. This is a very common myth, and nobody really knows how it started!

Water pressure doesn't stop blood from leaving your body. Your uterus doesn't know whether you're in a swimming pool, the sea, a bath or standing on dry land, so your period continues as normal.

If you're planning to go swimming while on your period, you can use a tampon, menstrual cup or period swimwear if you feel more comfortable. If your period is very light, you may find you don't need any protection at all, as any small amount of blood released into the water would usually be quickly diluted and go unnoticed.

The most important thing is not to let your period stop you from enjoying swimming. You can safely swim, play in the sea, splash around in a pool, and take part in water sports while on your period.

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

This is such a good question because understanding your menstrual cycle can feel a little confusing when you're new to periods.

Lots of girls and women use a diary, calendar, or period-tracking app to keep track of their periods. The first day of your period is counted as Day 1 of your cycle. When your next period starts, count how many days have passed since the first day of your last period. This number is the length of your menstrual cycle.

For example, if there are 28 days between the first day of one period and the first day of the next, you have a 28-day cycle. A typical menstrual cycle can be anywhere from 21 to 34 days long.

However, during the first few years after your periods begin, they can be quite irregular. You may find that your cycles are different lengths each month, and that's completely normal. It can take time for your body to settle into a pattern.

Because of this, it's always a good idea to carry a few period pads or pantyliners with you when you're out and about, just in case your period arrives unexpectedly.

Remember, every girl's cycle is different, and it may take a while before you notice a regular pattern.

My First Period: What To Expect | Lil-Lets

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

It's very common to worry when your second period doesn't arrive when you expect it to, but periods are often irregular during the first few years after they start.

Many girls have long gaps between periods at the beginning, sometimes several weeks or even a few months. This happens because your body is still learning how to manage its new hormones and establish a menstrual cycle that's right for you.

You may find that one period comes after four weeks, while the next takes much longer to appear. That's completely normal during puberty and usually isn't a sign that anything is wrong.

Be patient with your body. Everyone develops at their own pace, and it can take time for periods to settle into a more regular pattern.

My top tip would be to always keep some pads or a period kit with you from now on when away from home, so you are always prepared.

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

Firstly, congratulations on starting your period!

Around 12 years old is a very common age for girls to get their first period, so you're certainly not alone. It can feel a little strange, exciting, confusing, or even a bit scary at first, and all of those feelings are completely normal.

I hope you're feeling prepared and have some period pads or pantyliners available when you're out and about, just in case. It can also help to let your mum, dad, guardian, or whoever looks after you know that your period has started so they can support you if you need anything.

Remember, your periods might not be regular straight away. For the first few years, they can arrive early, late, be lighter one month and heavier the next. That's completely normal while your body settles into its new rhythm.

And of course, you can always come here and ask me anything you're worried about or don't quite understand. There are no silly questions when it comes to periods, puberty, and growing up. Chances are, if you're wondering about something, lots of other girls are wondering the same thing too!

You may also find my blogs helpful if you'd like to learn more about first periods, period products, period cramps, and all the other changes that happen during puberty.

My First Period

Welcome to the period club! 💖

Hi ❤️

It's actually very rare for someone to never get a period at all. Most girls will start their periods at some point during puberty, but the age it happens can vary quite a lot from person to person.

Some girls start as early as 8 years old, while others don't get their first period until their mid to late teens. Both can be completely normal. We are all different, and our bodies follow their own timetable.

Doctors only tend to become concerned if a young person gets much older (18+) and still hasn't started their period, especially if they're showing other signs of puberty. In those situations, they can check whether there's an underlying reason.

From your questions, it sounds like you're spending a lot of time thinking about your first period and when it will arrive. That's completely understandable! Many girls go through a stage of checking for signs and wondering when it will happen.

The important thing to remember is that your body knows what it's doing. Your first period will arrive when your body is ready, and until then, there's no need to compare yourself to friends or classmates.

And when it does arrive? I have a feeling you'll be far more prepared than you think.

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

It might surprise you to hear this, but lots of girls feel exactly the same way. Sometimes the thought of starting your period feels scary, even when you can't quite explain why.

Periods are one of those things that can seem like a really big deal before they happen. You hear people talking about them, read about them online, and wonder what it will be like for you. It's completely understandable to feel nervous about something new.

The reality is that your first period is simply another step in your puberty journey. It means your body is growing and developing just as it should. You don't have to feel excited about it, and you don't need to have everything figured out right now either.

Many girls tell me that they spent ages worrying about their first period, but when it finally arrived, they realised it wasn't nearly as frightening as they had imagined. Having a few period pads ready and knowing the basics can make you feel much more confident when the time comes.

For now, be reassured that what you're feeling is incredibly common. The fact that you're reading about periods and learning what to expect means you're already more prepared than you think. 💖

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

That is completely normal and it happens to lots of teens! Sometimes we laugh when we're embarrassed, nervous or unsure what to say. It's actually one of the ways our brains deal with awkward feelings, even when nothing is funny.

From what you've said, it sounds like talking about bras, periods and puberty makes you feel a bit self-conscious, so the laughing is probably just your body's way of coping with those nerves.

Try not to worry about it. You don't need to force yourself to suddenly have serious conversations if they feel awkward. If you start laughing again, that's okay. Give yourself a little time to calm down, and then perhaps send your mum a text later saying something like:

"Sorry I kept laughing earlier. I do want to talk about bras/periods, I just get really embarrassed talking about it face to face."

You may find that texting first makes the conversation much easier. Once you've broken the ice, chatting in person often feels a lot less awkward.

And honestly? Most mums expect these conversations to be a bit giggly and embarrassing. Chances are she remembers feeling exactly the same at your age!

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

It can be really confusing when you get cramps or aches but your period isn't due. Many teens assume any lower tummy pain must be a period cramp, but there can be a few different reasons why this happens.

Sometimes, if you're getting lower tummy cramps, back ache or leg pain between periods, it can simply be your body growing and changing. During puberty, muscles, bones and joints are developing quickly, and this can sometimes cause aches that feel surprisingly similar to period pains.

You might also notice mild cramping around the middle of your cycle when your body releases an egg (ovulation). This is completely normal and can happen even if your next period is still a couple of weeks away.

If the pain is mild, comes and goes, and you're otherwise feeling well, it's usually nothing to worry about. However, if the pain is severe, keeps happening, wakes you up at night, or is affecting your daily life, it's a good idea to speak to a parent, guardian or healthcare professional.

During puberty, it's very common to experience aches and pains that don't always have an obvious explanation, and our bodies don't come with instruction manuals! Keeping a note of when the pain happens can sometimes help you spot a pattern.

Check out my blog below on Growth Spurts & Growing Pains

Growth Spurts & Growing Pains

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

Try not to worry, period stains happen to almost everyone at some point, especially when your periods are new and still a bit unpredictable. Your mum might be frustrated about the extra washing, but she's very likely been through the same thing herself!

To remove a period stain, rinse the area in cold water as soon as you can. Avoid hot water, as this can make the stain harder to remove. Then gently rub in a little washing detergent before putting the item in the normal wash.

If this keeps happening overnight, you could try using night pads, which are longer and more absorbent. If you don't have any, overlapping two day period pads can help give extra protection while you sleep. Some people also choose to use tampons if they're comfortable with them, but remember tampons should not be worn for longer than 8 hours.

You may also find it helps to wear snug-fitting underwear, sleep on a dark towel, or keep a spare pair of pyjamas handy just in case.

Period leaks are a normal part of learning what works for your body, and they do get easier to manage with time.

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

It's not unusual for your first few periods to last longer than the typical 2-10 days, especially during the first couple of years after your periods begin. While your body is getting used to its new hormonal changes, your menstrual cycle can be quite unpredictable, and longer periods can happen.

The good news is that this is often completely normal during puberty. However, if the bleeding is very heavy, you're feeling unusually tired, weak, dizzy, or unwell, it's important to speak to your mum, dad, or another trusted adult. Prolonged bleeding can sometimes lead to anaemia (low iron levels), which may need checking.

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

From what you've described, it does sound very possible that this could be the start of your first period.

A lot of girls expect their first period to arrive as bright red blood, but that's not always what happens. Period blood can be brown, dark brown, pink, red or even look almost black. Brown blood is usually older blood that has taken a little longer to leave the body.

It's also quite common for a first period to be a bit unpredictable. You might notice a few brown spots one day, nothing for a day or two, and then see some more later on. During the first couple of years, periods can be quite irregular while your body is still getting used to all the hormonal changes of puberty.

My advice would be to:

• Wear a pantyliner if you're noticing the spotting.
• Keep some period pads in your school bag just in case.
• Tell a parent, carer or trusted adult if you feel comfortable doing so.
• Keep an eye on what's happening over the next few weeks.

Even if this isn't quite your first proper period, since you're in Year 7 and already noticing other signs of puberty, the timing would certainly make sense.

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

No, this isn't true. It is possible to become pregnant before your first period arrives, although it isn't very common.

This is because your body releases an egg (ovulation) before you have a period. If that egg is fertilised by sperm from unprotected sex, a pregnancy can occur. Since nobody knows exactly when their first ovulation will happen, it's impossible to know when this risk begins.

So if someone is sexually active, they should always use contraception to help prevent pregnancy and protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Many people assume that if periods haven't started yet, pregnancy isn't possible, but that's a myth. The first period happens after the first ovulation, not before.

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

That's the million-dollar question and one that lots of girls ask: "When will my first period arrive?" 😊

The honest answer is that no one can predict exactly when it will happen. Periods can be quite unpredictable and sometimes arrive when we least expect them!

At 10 years old and in Year 6, you're well within the normal age range for puberty. Some girls start their periods at 8 or 9, while others don't get theirs until their early or even late-teens. We are all different. ❤️

I wonder, have you noticed any signs of puberty yet? Things like:

• Breast development or breast buds
• Getting a bit taller more quickly
• More body hair under your arms or around your pubic area
• Vaginal discharge in your underwear

These signs can sometimes give clues that your body is getting ready for your first period, although they can't tell you exactly when it will arrive.

It sounds like you're feeling a bit nervous about it, and that's completely normal. Most girls feel that way before their first period. You may find it helps to keep a couple of period pads in your school bag, just so you feel prepared whenever the day comes.

Remember, your first period is simply a sign that your body is growing up. You don't need to rush it, and there's no "right" age for it to start.

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

Oh dear, that's really upsetting, especially when you trusted your friend with something personal. It sounds like she shared your news without thinking about how it would make you feel, and it's completely understandable that you're feeling embarrassed or annoyed.

The thing is, what's done is done now, and while I can't know whether she told people out of excitement or because she wasn't thinking, she did break your trust. That's a shame.

But please don't feel embarrassed about having your period. Periods are a normal part of growing up, and every girl in your year will either have started hers already or will do at some point. You have absolutely nothing to be ashamed of. ❤️

Hold your head high. If someone brings it up, you could simply roll your eyes and say:

"Yep, I got my period. Not sure why it became school news, but I'm totally fine with it."

Or even:

"It's just a period. It's really not that exciting!"

Often when we act confident about something, people lose interest very quickly and move on to the next bit of gossip.

As for your friend, you might want to have a quiet word with her and say something like:

"I trusted you with that, and I was upset that you told other people."

A good friend should understand and apologise.

Remember, the embarrassing part isn't that you got your first period. The embarrassing part is someone sharing something that wasn't theirs to share.

You've done nothing wrong, and I promise this will feel like a much bigger deal to you than it does to everyone else. 

Vicki ❤️