Menstruation

Period, days, period, menstruation: there are a lot of words for menstruation. Many girls can't wait to get their period. The first time in particular is a very special moment during puberty. At the same time, the onset of sexual maturity brings with it a lot of questions and uncertainties, ranging from menstrual hygiene to contraception.

During puberty, the female body begins to produce sex hormones. They ensure that an egg is formed every month and that the uterus builds up a mucous membrane. If the egg is fertilized through unprotected sexual intercourse, a baby grows. If fertilization does not occur, the body excretes the egg and uterine lining. This results in menstruation. The color can be light, dark or brownish. How heavy and how long a girl has her period varies greatly. The period usually settles over time and lasts between 3 and 7 days.

Girls usually have their first menstruation between the ages of 11 and 14. On average, girls get their period at around 12.5 years of age. However, it is completely normal for girls to get their period earlier (perhaps as early as 9 or 10 years old) or later (perhaps as late as 16 years old). There is no fixed time. The biological clock determines when it starts.

The menstrual cycle can vary from girl to girl or woman to woman. It begins on the first day of the period and ends on the last day before the next menstrual period. On average, the menstrual cycle lasts between 25 and 35 days. However, the first cycles of young girls in particular can still vary greatly due to hormonal fluctuations.

Now is the time to talk about contraception as a family. Some daughters may find the topic too intimate to discuss with their mother. Or the mothers are unsure because they have inhibitions. In this case, gynecologists can also be trustworthy contacts who are happy to help explain and advise on a suitable contraceptive method.

Menstruation is not an illness. Therefore, everything that is usually allowed is permitted during your period. This also applies to all types of sport: whether swimming, cycling, gymnastics or dancing - periods do not prevent girls from doing whatever they feel like doing. Exercise and sport can even help if menstrual cramps occur. Girls who experience slight discomfort during their period should still pay attention to their needs. Some will feel as active as ever, others may feel a little more tired. This is completely normal.