Everything you wanted to know about your first period and

Puberty Education Programme
n ow on d
k
o
t
d
nt e a n d be y
a
w
u
o
n g y i rst pe riod,
i
h
t
y
r
e
Ev t you r f
a bo u
Just for Girls
Contents
From girl to woman
Puberty
You’re finally on your way to
becoming a woman – what
an incredible and exciting
time of your life!
1
From girl to woman
2 The change in your life
3 Your period - What is it?
This booklet is for you
to keep a summary of the
topics covered during your lessons
and provides details of where to go for
further information. Inside these pages
you will discover lots of explanations
to help you understand the changes
you will undergo as you become a
woman. It is full of helpful hints
and tips which are used by girls
all around the world who have
been through exactly the
same experiences as you
and who use femcare
products too!
4 Get a hang of your cycle
5 The whole story
6 Your time - The right time
7 Being irregular is totally regular
8Discharge
9 PMS and Cramps
10 Common questions about periods
Your protection
11
Don't get caught by surprise!
12 How to choose the best pad for you?
13 How to use a pad?
14-15 The Always Ultra Range
16 What is a tampon?
17 How to choose the best tampon for you
18 It’s so easy with an applicator
19 The Tampax Pearl Range
20-21 Some extra attention with tampons: TSS
22 What is a Pantyliner?
Your wellbeing
23 Emotional Health
24 Healthy Living
25 2014-15 Period Calendar
Did you know that talking
to each other, sharing and
exchanging stories is a big part of what
makes us women? We encourage
you to share this booklet with
your parents/carers, ask them
questions and learn from their
experiences. After all, they have
been through the same things and
will make you see, it is nothing to
worry about!
Yours,
Anna
The Always Expert Tea m
1
The change in your life
Over the next few years, you’re
going to experience some major
physical changes – but don’t
worry, they are completely normal
and don’t all happen at once!
Your period - What is it?
Want to know more?
Visit
These changes are known as puberty
and usually start between the ages of 9
& 14 years old. Keep in mind – the time
puberty kicks in is different for each girl,
for some it happens early, while for
other girls it takes longer.
Your Changes
During puberty, your ovaries produce hormones
responsible for some changes in your body. Tick the boxes
that apply to you and check out our info tips below...
Your breasts start to grow – maybe it’s time to think about trying
some bras.
You become taller
You begin to grow body hair
Your body develops odour – as your body changes it’s important to
use deodorant and maintain good personal hygiene
You experience new emotions and feelings – you will notice that boys
are developing them too!
You may get vaginal discharge – this is a completely normal and
healthy part of being a woman. See page 8
2
If you ticked all the boxes, your first period has probably
started or is just around the corner. For more information
visit www.beinggirl.co.uk
Before we start talking about the what, the how
and the when, here’s the most important thing
you need to remember – getting your period is
a very normal and natural thing!
Your monthly period will begin during
puberty; it is the days of the month when
you begin to shed tissue, fluid and blood
(also called menstrual discharge) from
the lining of the uterus (also known as
the womb) in readiness for an egg to be
released from your ovaries.
How often does it happen?
How long does it last?
Well, that too changes. Every woman
is different but for most girls and
women it happens once each month
and lasts between 3 and 7 days.
3
Get a hang of your cycle
The whole story
Your Uterus
5
Ok, I get what puberty and my period
is, but what is my menstrual cycle?
Your period is part of a natural cycle –
called the menstrual cycle – which the body
goes through to enable a woman to have
a baby. Your menstrual cycle is basically
the time between the first day of one
period to the first day of the next one.
The average time this takes is 28 days,
but anywhere between 21 and 35 days
is normal. Then the cycle starts again!
Your menstrual cycle is made up of 4
different yet very important phases,
each with its own unique role.
Fallopian Tube
1
4
3
Uterus
Endometriu m
2
Ovary
6
Vagina
1
Pre-Ovulation
7
Menstrual F low
2
Ovulation
A woman’s body has two ovaries that
contain thousands of eggs (ova). 1
After the egg is released it travels along
the fallopian tube 5 to the thickening
endometrium. If a sperm, which is the
male reproductive cell, fertilizes the
egg, a baby develops. During ovulation
your vaginal discharge may change in
volume and texture.
Oestrogen, the female hormone, tells the
ovary 2 to release an egg every month.
The ovaries take turns releasing eggs the left ovary one month, the right ovary
the next. At the same time, the soft lining
(endometrium) 3 of the uterus 4 -the
place where a baby can grow - starts
to thicken.
1
3
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
Premenstrual
1
4
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
Menstruation
When the egg isn’t fertilized, it breaks
down and the endometrium isn’t needed.
As a result, hormone levels drop causing
the endometrium to shed. This is also
the moment when you can experience
“period pains” known as PMS (see p. 9).
Want to know more?
Eggs
The endometrium leaves the body
through the vagina 6 as a reddish
fluid containing blood. 7 This is
your period.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28
Ask the Expert at
4
5
Being irregular is totally regular
Your time - The right time
Am I normal?
it
ldn’t
Shou appened
h
have y now?
b
Whe
re
is my
perio
d?
ave all
Why h iends
r
my f
eirs?
had th
Relax; the real answer is that there is no “right”
time for everyone!
Most of you will get your period between the
ages of 10 and 16, but your period will start when
your body is ready. If you haven’t started by the
time you are 16 why not chat to your nurse or
doctor for reassurance.
As a rough guide, your periods will probably start:
• A
bout 2 years after your breasts start to develop
• Soon after you grow pubic hair
• After you start to notice some vaginal discharge
Your body can give you several signs a few days
before your period comes… (although not all
women experience these symptoms):
• y
our breasts may become a bit heavier
and feel a bit sore
• you may feel tired
• you may feel a bit tearful and
argumentative
• you may get a few cramps
in your tummy
6
Like many girls, your period will most
probably be irregular at first. You
could have one period then wait as
long as six months for the next one!
Don’t worry about it – this is perfectly
normal and natural. It can take a
while before your body settles
into its regular cycle. In fact,
it may take up to 2 or 3 years!
Keep a track of your cycle
Whether regular or not, it’s always
useful to keep track of your cycle.
Each month mark the first day
of your period
Count the days from the very
first days of one period and
the very first day of the next
one – that’s how long your
menstrual cycle is
Once you have calculated
the total length of your cycle
(e.g. 28 days), you can open
your calendar to mark your
period due dates for the
upcoming months
12:34 PM
Calendar
September 2014
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Light flow
Heavy flow
Discharge
PMS
Today
List
Day
Month
Check out our interactive
period calendar at
www.beinggirl.co.uk/period-calculator
7
Discharge
PMS and Cramps
You may have already noticed that you occasionally
have some transparent or ‘whitish’ fluid traces in your
underwear. This is vaginal discharge.
Vaginal discharge is the fluids that come from
various organs like the vagina, the cervix
or glands located nearby and is released
through your vagina. This usually starts a few
weeks before a period.
Vaginal discharge is perfectly normal and
natural, a healthy sign that your body is
functioning properly. It helps maintain
the moisture of the vagina and protects
against infection.
If your vaginal discharge smells
unpleasant, is yellowish or darker,
is thick or causes itching and
burning this could be a sign of
infection. Don’t be embarrassed,
this will happen to almost every
woman at some point. In
this situation go and see a
doctor who will be able to
recommend the
proper treatment.
Get protected!
If you have been experiencing vaginal
discharge you may wish to stay protected
using a pantyliner. Need more tips?
8
Visit
PMS is short for Pre Menstrual Syndrome.
It is the name given to the symptoms some
girls experience before their period. It can
happen 1 to 14 days before your period
starts and comes from all the hormones
running around your body.
01:00 PM
What happens when I have PMS?
These symptoms can be physical and emotional - you
may get moody, achy, have food cravings or breast
tenderness. Although this can be annoying and
inconvenient remember that these symptoms are only
temporary and you will feel back to normal in no time!
Why do I feel pain during my period?
Some women hardly notice any discomfort during their
period, other may experience cramps. You get cramps
when your uterus contracts slightly to get rid of its lining.
You may feel them during your period in your lower
abdomen, lower back or even legs. Not to worry! Cramps
are normal and there are many ways to get relief.
Why not try...
 Rubbing your tummy with your hand to make it warm
Place a heating pad or hot water bottle on your abdomen
 Take a warm bath
 Do some light exercise
Send
Got more questions?
Why not Ask Anna at
9
Don't get caught by surprise!
Common questions about periods
aboutYOU
Before your cycle becomes regular, your period
may catch you by surprise. It’s a really good idea
to always be prepared, just in case, especially
when you are at school or out with friends.
Amy: Will anyone notice when I have my period?
But how do I get protected?
About You: Not unless you tell them!
During your period you will need some extra protection.
Choosing the right protection is very important. There are
three means of protection: Pads, Tampons and Pantyliners.
Amy: Should I tell someone when my period comes?
ds
Pads are an external means of protection as you wear
them in your underwear. Many girls choose to use pads
for protection on their first periods, as they are very
comfortable. It’s a really good idea to keep a pad in
your bag just in case, especially on the days you expect
to start your period. See pages 12 for more details.
Pa
About You: You can if you want to! It is an exciting
thing to happen. Remember that all women have
periods, so they know all about what to do and how
to help you. You will need to tell someone so that
they can give you some pads or tampons and to give
you some advice.
Amy: What if I have my first period when I’m
at school?
About You: Menstrual fluid can start to smell when it
comes into contact with air. This will not be noticed
as long as you change your pad or tampon regularly
and wash yourself regularly too.
SEND
m pa k Pe
e rs
Pa nt y li n
Amy: Will I smell when I have my period?
10
a rl
Co
About You: Virtually all girls are taken by surprise
when they get their first period – even if they are
quite well informed – so don’t worry. It’s a good idea
to carry a pad and some clean underwear in your bag
just in case. But if you haven’t got a pad, ask a friend
or a teacher to help you – no-one will mind. Most
schools keep some spare pads for times like this.
Ta m p o
n
A tampon is an internal mean of sanitary protection,
which means it goes inside your body (in your vagina).
Tampons are very discreet and once you are used to them
they are very convenient. See pages 16 for more details.
Unlike pads and tampons, which are especially designed
to use during your period, pantyliners are designed to
absorb moisture and can be used as needed to help you
protect your underwear from discharge.
See page 22 for more details.
11
How to choose the best pad for you?
How to use a pad?
To choose your Pad, you should
look at the following 3 features:
Follow 3 simple steps!
1
1
2
The core of your
pad for absorbency
Extra protection
zones that
provide leakage
protection
3
The wings, so that your pad
stays in place and protects
you from side leaks
Do thicker pads offer better protection?
12
No – not always. It depends on the material the core is made from.
Some pads are manufactured with a super absorbent core made of
millions of gel granules where the fluid is absorbed and turned into gel
so that it hardly resurfaces. This means that the moisture is locked away
so you feel clean, dry and protected. Because these pads (often called
“ultra” pads) are really thin, they are both comfortable and discreet –
and yet they offer excellent protection too! So why not look out for the
“Ultra” name to help find the one that suits you best?
2
Take out the
pad from
it’s plastic
wrapper
Pull off the
wrapper and
the paper
strip that
covers the
sticky part of
the pad and
the wings.
3
Attach the
sticky part
securely to
the inside
centre of your
knickers.
How to throw away a pad?
1
2
Fold it up and wrap
it in a toilet paper or
in the wrapper from
your new pad.
Put it in the rubbish
bin. Never throw
it into the toilet.
If thrown into the
toilet, the pad may
clog it, causing the
toilet to flood.
How often should I change my pad?
Change it every 4 to 8 hours
or more often if your flow is
heavy. If you’re wearing a smaller
pad or one with less absorbency,
you may need to change it more
frequently. Your pad may begin
to leak if you wear it too long.
Learn more at
13
Use the product selector at
The Always Ultra Range
Always Ultra
up to
100%
leakage protection
FOR DAY
2
pa
s
am
p
ck
s
Teenended
m
m
o
rec product
l es in
Teenesnded
m
recopmroduct
length of pad
FOR NIGHT
when to use
Without wings.
For light days.
Always
Ultra Normal
22.1 cm
Always Ultra
Normal Plus
24.0 cm
Suitable for
moderate flow.
28.4 cm
Great for moderate
to heavy flow and
for extra protection.
31.7 cm
The longest Always
pad. For great
protection during
Night.
31.7 cm
Always' best ever
Night protection, with
60% larger back*.
Always Ultra
Long Plus
Always
Ultra Night
Always Ultra
Secure Night
14
absorbency
*versus Always
Ultra Normal
15
What is a tampon?
Tampons are sanitary protection
that are worn inside your body.
How to choose the best tampon for you
Learn more about tampons at
To choose your ta mpon, you should
look at the following 3 features:
A tampon is made of soft absorbent material compressed
into a small oblong shape with a cord securely sewn
through it for removal. It is held into place by muscular
walls of your vagina and gently expands to absorb
your flow. Many girls start using tampons when they go
swimming and find them comfortable to wear when they
are active during their period.
1
Tampons with applicator
or without applicator?
Does it hurt?
Not at all! Just relax; this will help you insert a tampon
with ease. If it is uncomfortable you’re probably not
relaxed enough and haven’t put it in far enough.
This is very common, just remove it and try again
with a fresh tampon.
When can I start using ta mpons?
Whenever you like! Some girls find it easier to use pads
to start with, until they have settled into a routine with
their periods. We recommend that the first time you
try a tampon is during one of your period heavy days.
Never insert a tampon when you are not menstruating.
How often should I change my ta mpon?
Depending on your personal need, change your tampon
every 4-8 hours. If you would like to use a tampon
overnight, insert a new tampon before you go to bed
and replace immediately upon waking up. If you sleep
for more than 8 hours, use a pad instead. Never use a
tampon for more than 8 hours.
16
2
The expansion of the core:
some tampons come uniquely
designed to gently unfold and
fit your natural shape
3
Extra leakage protection
What’s the difference between a ta mpon with
an applicator and one without an applicator ?
A smooth plastic applicator is designed to help make
insertion comfortable and can help make sure your
tampon is properly placed. An applicator can also help
keep your hands clean.
17
Use the product selector at
It’s so easy with an applicator!
The Tampax Pearl Range
1
2
Always start with washing
your hands.
Unwrap the tampon and
then pull the smaller
inner tube out until it
"clicks" and locks in place.
s
1
am
p
For
heavy
flow
days
4
4
Slide the outer insertion
tube all the way into
your vagina until your
fingers touch your body.
5
6
For
normal
flow
days
Regular
Get into a comfortable
position and insert
the applicator. Hold the
outer insertion tube by the
grooved ridges with your thumb and
middle finger. With the removal string
hanging down, insert the tip of
the applicator into your vagina
at a slight upward angle,
approximately 45 degrees.
5
l es in
Teenesnded
m
recopmroduct
2
3
3
2
pa
How to use an applicator ta mpon
ck
s
Teenended
m
recopmroduct
Super
Still holding the applicator,
push the bottom of the smaller
tube into the bigger tube.
Once the tampon is
securely placed, remove
the applicator and throw
it in the bin. You can use
the wrapper of your new
tampon to throw it away.
8
18
7
8
To remove your tampon, slowly
and gently pull the removal string
downward and away from your body.
Never flush a tampon down the
toilet, always throw it in the bin.
6
Super
Plus
For
heavier
flow
days
19
Some extra attention with tampons: TSS
Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)
You may have heard of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).
TSS is a very rare but serious illness which can be fatal.
It can occur in men, women and children. It is also
associated with tampon use. About one-half of all cases
of TSS occur in women who are menstruating, and this
is usually associated with tampon use. TSS is treatable
but early recognition and treatment are important.
What are the symptoms?
To put your mind at rest, here’s a list of the symptoms
of TSS to watch for, and some tips on what to do
if you think you have any of them.
You can reduce your risk by:
• Alternating tampons with pads during your period.
•Always using the tampon with the lowest absorbency
for your flow.
•Menstrual TSS can occur during or shortly after a
period. TSS can recur, so if you have had it once, you
can have it again. Therefore, you should talk to your
doctor before using tampons if you have had TSS or
symptoms of TSS in the past.
As mentioned, TSS is very rare,
so don’t worry too much — just be aware.
The symptoms include:
• a sudden high fever
•vomiting
•diarrhoea
• a sunburn-like rash
•dizziness
How can I reduce my risk of getting TSS during
my period?
• muscle aches
•fainting or
feeling faint
•confusion
Any one of these symptoms
could be an indication of TSS,
though you may not experience
all of them.
If you think that you may be suffering
from TSS...
•remove any tampon you are
wearing immediately
• tell your doctor you have been
using a tampon and are concerned
about TSS
What should I do if I have any
of these symptoms?
20
Immediately remove any tampon
you are wearing and see your
doctor. Tell your doctor you have
been using a tampon and are
concerned about TSS.
21
What is a Pantyliner?
Emotional Health
Pantyliners are an absorbent extra layer that can be
inserted into underwear to absorb moisture.
They’re really simple to use - just remove the paper strip on the
back of the pantyliner, which covers the sticky part on the
underneath, and attach the liner securely to your underwear.
What's the difference between a pad and a pantyliner?
Pantyliners are much thinner and more flexible than pads.
Unlike pads, which absorb menstrual fluid, pantyliners are
specially designed to absorb vaginal discharge & sweat,
whenever you want.
2
s
Teenended
m
recopmroduct
a
mpliner iisn
Stickiness & Flexibility – make sure your
l es
sticky & flexible enough to stay in place all day long
Always Dailies Incredibly Thin Flexistyle
Pantyliners are our thinnest pantyliners
ever, less than 1mm. Thanks to their
unique shape they adapt to 100% of
knickers styles and are sealed all the way
to the edges for a secure fit.
22
2
Sometimes these hormones can get a bit
overwhelming and it can feel like we don't have any
control over what we think or how we feel. But by
making simple changes to our lives, we can make a
real difference to the way we feel. Some things you
could do to help you feel better are:
• Eat well
• Exercise
• Help other people
The shape of the liner – some pantyliners adapt
to all your knicker styles
s
3
The thinness of the liner – make sure it feels
thin and comfortable enough for daily wear
ck
1 MILLIMETER
pa
1
When should I use them? Pantyliners can be worn whenever
you want, to provide peace of mind, before, or after a period.
They can be used to help you feel fresh and protect
your underwear from discharge.
During puberty, your hormones can affect
you emotionally for a while. If you find
yourself in a rut where you’re sad or angry
for a few days, don’t let this get you down;
it happens to a lot of us. As your body
changes, so does your brain. It develops
your personality, who you are, your likes and
dislikes. This can affect your friendships and
how you view yourself.
Teenesnded
m
recopmroduct
• Believe in yourself
• Take time out
• Talk to friends and family
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or like you can’t cope
with things, don’t try and cope with everything on
your own. It’s a very normal feeling and it may be
helpful to talk to someone, so don’t be afraid to
ask. For example you could talk to a parent, friend,
teacher or trusted adult.
Have you ever been pushed into doing something you
thought was wrong – like teasing someone, stealing or
cyberbullying ? This is called peer pressure. This is when
good self-esteem can help you to do what you think is right.
Do you really want to be friends with people who want you
to do something wrong or dangerous? In this situation, peer
pressure is about wielding power over another person, not
about friendship. If you back away, say no or just walk away,
your real friends will respect you.
23
2014-15 Period Calendar
Healthy Living
The following tips will help to keep you fit and healthy:
• Eat a healthy and balanced diet
Complex carbohydrates
(e.g. pasta, breads and
cereals) provide energy
for the body.
Calcium (e.g. dairy
products) helps to
build and strengthen
the bones.
Vita mins
(e.g. fresh fruit
and vegetables)
keep the body
feeling healthy.
Proteins (e.g. fish, meat and
beans) are building blocks
for muscles, skin and blood.
•Exercise regularly – Sixty minutes a day of
moderate aerobic activity (e.g. brisk walking,
cycling, etc.) should do the trick.
•Get enough sleep – Right now your body is
working pretty hard and it needs time to
recover. Aim for at least eight hours of
uninterrupted sleep a night.
•Personal hygiene – As your body
changes it’s important to keep it
clean. Personal hygiene is your
responsibility, so embrace it.
24
•Skin care – Keeping your skin clean
and clear may take more of your
time now. Your body is a full-on
hormone producing machine and
that can lead to more greasy/oily
skin with clogged pores and spots.
25
Puberty Education Programme
For more information on the topics
covered in this booklet, go to:
Whatever your worry
Childline
www.childline.org.uk
0800 1111
Bullying UK
www.bullying.co.uk
Toxic Shock Information Service
www.toxicshock.com
Mental Health and Wellbeing concerns
Youngminds
www.youngminds.org.uk
Have cancer worries?
Teenage Cancer Trust
www.teenagecancertrust.org
All rights reserved to Always © 2014
All images are used for illustrative purposes only. Any person depicted in
the image, if any, is a model. This document contains licensed material. It
is for personal use only and must not be reproduced without permission.
97010000
Macmillan Cancer Support
www.macmillan.org.uk
0808 808 0000 (free support line)