Periods 101
- Breakthroughs Ajayi
- Jan 2
- 4 min read
Topic of the day - Periods
Today we're going to discuss something that's inevitable but is not often talked about: Periods. We're here to tell you everything you need to know about your cycle. Ready to be informed?
Let's get into it!
What is a period?
Period - normal vaginal bleeding that occurs as part of a woman's monthly cycle
Menstruation, also known as a period, is a very important part of your menstrual cycle.
At this time, your body sheds the lining of your uterus
(The lining builds up in case of pregnancy)
The lining proceeds to come out in the form of blood through your vagina
This lasts from 3 to 7 days and happens around every 28 days
Your First Period
The average age to get your first period is between 10 and 16
If your first period is extremely late or early, make sure to see a doctor
Your first period is often spotty and light
If you suspect your first period is on its way, make sure to start carrying an emergency pack
Here are some hints for your first period -
-You start to notice vaginal discharge (a clear or white liquid)
(Again, perfectly normal)
-Chest development
(Another sign you're growing)
-You start to grow hair in the pubic and underarm areas
(This is meant to keep us warm in those areas [perfectly normal])
What Should You Use?
There are plenty of options to make your period as comfortable as possible.
Here, I'm going to recommend products for beginners.
-Pads: Depending on your feeling's pads can be very comfortable or very uncomfortable. They stick to your underwear and soak up the blood. There are different kinds like panty liners, daily use, and overnight.
-Period Underwear : Period underwear is just like normal underwear except, it has the capacity to soak up blood without it leaking through to your clothing. The good thing about this is there is less leaking because there isn't really a way for the underwear to move around to where the blood can start taking different 'routes'.
Here, I'm going to provide other options. I would not recommend
these for beginners (1st year of your period). However, I don't gatekeep and I would want for you to have all the options laid out for you to choose.
-Tampons : This is inserted into your vagina, and it absorbs the blood before it leaves your body.
[(BEWARE OF TOXIC SHOCK SYNDROME) DO NOT EVER LEAVE A TAMPON IN FOR MORE THAN 4-8 HOURS]
They are discreet and shouldn't stick out much.
-Menstrual Cups : They're a flexible cup that goes into your vagina during your period. Unlike the tampon, pad, and period underwear, they don't absorb the blood. They collect the blood. This can make it kind of messy when its time to get rid of them.
Things to do before and during your period
Tips for maximum comfort
1) Track your cycle!!!
This is very important to know and predict when your next period is coming. You can use an app to plan around your period.
2) Hydration and Diet
Try to lay off sweets during and right before your period as they can make your period much worse. Drink a lot of water to make sure you are not dehydrated.
3) Prep!
Make sure to carry an emergency pack with you!
-In this pack there should be ibuprofen (if you are above 12), pads, tampons, and a heating pack
4) Exercise
Light workouts can help with cramps and help you feel fulfilled, boosting your mood and morale during this time.
Period Issues
Periods can sometimes a bit hard to handle, I'm here to help you try and fix it
-Cramps: There are plenty of things that can help with cramps. You can take over-the-counter medicines such as Midol, ibuprofen, Tylenol, etc. However, make sure you are taking the exact dosage required. If the instructions say take two pills max, TAKE TWO PILLS MAX. These things do add up and can cause organ damage over time. Stay safe.
-Heavy Periods : If your pad or tampon gets completely full every 1-2 hours, there may be a problem. (Of course, this is dependent on the type of pad/tampon you're wearing and other factors)
-Irregular Periods : It is perfectly normal for your periods to be irregular or not follow a pattern your first few years. However, if there is concern, seek medical advice.
Let's Play a Game!
Myth or Truth?
-Every menstrual cycle lasts 28 days
(Every person is different! And just because your last cycle was X number of days does not mean your next cycle will be the same)
-Your period can sync with your friends'
(There is no scientific evidence for this. It can happen per chance though)
-You lose tons of blood
(In the moment, it may look like you're losing a lot of your blood, but in reality, its only a few tablespoons of blood)
Breaking the Barrier
It can be uncomfortable to talk about periods. For centuries, periods have been seen as unclean or dirty. But it's not. A period is a natural part of being a woman. The more we speak about periods, the less stigma there is around it. So, let's clear the air for the next generation.
This is where I leave you. If you have any questions at all, don't hesitate to ask!
Have a story, tip, or question? Great! Put it in the comments for others to see. Let's make this a safe space for all the girls.
By Breakthroughs Ayomide Ajayi
Edited and reviewed by NP Helen Ajayi
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