Menstruation

What Is Menstruation?

Menstruation, often called a period, is a natural part of growing up for girls and women. It happens when the body releases special fluid through the vagina. This fluid includes a little bit of blood and tissue from inside the body. It shows that a baby is not growing right now.

Most girls have their first period, called menarche, between the ages of 11 and 13, but it can start a little earlier or later. This usually happens during a time called puberty, when the body changes a lot. The time between each period can be different for everyone, often lasting about 21 to 35 days.

How The Body Changes

Before and during a period, some people might feel different things in their bodies. They could feel a little tired, have a bloating feeling, or notice changes in their mood. These feelings are normal and are called premenstrual syndrome or PMS.

When a woman is pregnant or breastfeeding, periods usually stop for a while. They also stop around the time of menopause, which happens when a woman gets older, usually between 45 and 55 years old.

Special Products Help

When a period starts, there are special products to help keep things clean and comfortable. These include tampons, sanitary napkins, and menstrual cups. Some of these products are used once and then thrown away, while others can be cleaned and used again. It is important to learn how to use these products properly.