I hvilken alder får man sin første menstruation? Lille guide til teenagepiger

At what age does the first period occur? Little guide for teenage girls

The onset of menstruation typically occurs between the ages of 10 and 13, but everyone’s body is different, and the first period will come when your body is ready. This event is called menarche, the term for the first menstrual cycle, and is brought on by normal hormonal changes during adolescence.

What Happens During Puberty?

During puberty, your body will begin to show distinct signs, such as breast development and the growth of hair in various areas. Menstrual bleeding, which usually happens once a month, may initially be irregular. This is perfectly normal, and over time, your cycle will become more predictable, allowing you to track its duration more accurately.

To provide a clearer understanding, we’ve put together a guide on what to expect from your first period: when it may occur, the symptoms to look out for, how long it may last, and how you can best prepare.

Symptoms of Your First Period

Before the first day of actual menstrual bleeding, you may experience certain symptoms known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS). These symptoms can vary in intensity, and there is no cause for concern unless they lead to severe discomfort.

The most common symptoms of your first period are cramps, abdominal pain, breast tenderness, headaches, and general fatigue. You may also notice bloating, food cravings, or sudden mood swings. Back pain is also common during menstruation, particularly in the lower back. Additionally, hormonal changes may lead to acne in some areas. While these are the usual symptoms, they vary from person to person, and you might not experience them all. Knowing about them can help you prepare in case they do appear.

When your first menstrual bleeding occurs, you have officially started your menstrual cycle. The period generally lasts between 3 to 7 days, sometimes up to 8 days, with an average of 5 days. You may have heavier bleeding on the first and second days, which then decreases gradually until it stops. Towards the end of your period, the bleeding may turn from red to brown, signaling the end of the cycle.

How to Prepare for Your First Period

The key to confidently managing your first period is preparation and information.

Every person’s body is different, so although there are commonalities in the first period experience, it's important to be prepared according to your needs. The first step is to have absorbent pads ready, as the timing of your first period may catch you by surprise.

Maintaining hygiene is crucial during menstruation. Wash your intimate area several times a day and change your pad and underwear regularly. You can also consider using a menstrual cup for teens, a reusable product designed for young, virginal bodies. The cup is inserted like a tampon and provides up to 12 hours of protection based on your flow. The menstrual cup collects blood inside the body, ensuring safety without absorbing moisture from your vaginal area.

Additionally, colorful period panties like the IDA Collection offer a great alternative. These absorbent panties replace both underwear and pads, and they can be worn for up to 12 hours without irritation, odors, or leaks. The best part? They’re reusable—simply wash and wear again.

The Duration of Your First Menstruation

The normal duration of your first period is 3-7 days (sometimes up to 8 days) and may come with symptoms like those listed above.

The menstrual cycle is the time period between two periods—from the first day of menstruation to the day before the next one starts. A regular cycle generally occurs every 28 days, but it can vary from 21 to 35 days.

Remember, getting your first period is a sign that your reproductive system is working as it should. If your period doesn’t appear at the same time as your friends or classmates, don’t worry—everyone’s body is different.

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