Am I normal? Even if my period's different?

Your best friend could set a watch by her periods, meanwhile you're wondering if you will get yours in three weeks, five weeks, or at all this month. Everyone's different, and periods vary among individuals.

What's Normal?

The answer to that question is different for every girl. All aspects of a period can differ from person to person. It may take years before your periods become regular. Or, they may be regular from your first period. The length of a period can be different as well as the days between periods and the type of flow you have. Experience is the best way to learn all about periods, your body and what's normal for you.

Cramp Your Style

Some girls get cramps. Others don't. If you get cramps, they may come at different times during a period and can range from mild to severe. Also as your body develops, you may start getting cramps or the cramps you have may change in intensity. A lot of girls get cramps between periods when they ovulate. All the differences are normal.

On the Swings

PMS can affect a girl two weeks, one week, or a few days before her period. As with cramps, PMS symptoms can range from mild to severe. The most common symptoms are mood swings. Diet and exercise can help control the harshness of the swings.

Lots of women don't have PMS

If you're not affected, you may never be. Up to 50% of women never get any pre-period mood swings—though you don't need to mention this to your boyfriend who is likely to be extra nice to you for a couple of days.

All bodies are different. Just accept who you are and go with the flow—so to speak.