Getting your first period can be both exciting and scary. For most girls, they will get their period between the ages of 12 years and 14 years old. However, it could start sooner, as early as 9 years of age and as late as 16 years old. A normal period usually lasts 2 to 7 days but your first period may only last a few days and you could only see a few spots of reddish-brown blood.
Preparing for your first period
Since there is no telling when your first period will start, once you begin puberty, we recommend that you pack a pantiliner, pad and clean underwear in a discreet bag that you carry with you in your book bag or purse. In an emergency, you can use toilet paper to soak up your menstrual flow until you get a pantiliner or pad. Also, you may go to the school nurse for help in an emergency. Most school nurses keep extra pantiliners and pads for emergency use.
Additional resources
In addition to the information we have provided, you can find additional information on The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists website.