Dear BeingGirl Experts,

My friends and I were talking about getting our periods, and one of my friends already has hers, and she said that it hurts like hell when you get it the first time. Is this true? One other question: what would be better to use when I do get my period, tampons or pads, because tampons sound like they hurt?

Jasmine

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Dear Jasmine,

Every girl is unique. Some girls have no feeling of being uncomfortable when they get their periods, and others experience painful cramping. Most girls fall somewhere in the mid-range and feel aware of their periods, but continue to pursue their usual activities in comfort.

Pads or tampons—which is better to use?  This is definitely a personal decision. The Always Infinity and the Always Ultra thin pads are so discrete. We hear from girls who love these particular pads. Girls tell us Always pad are comfortable and reliable. If you want to use tampons, we recommend Tampax Pearl tampons. The Tampax Pearls have a smooth plastic applicator for easy insertion. Correctly-inserted tampons do not hurt. However, the first insertions are not always totally comfortable because you are learning a new technique. This is a learning experience. So you need to analyze your lifestyle and come up with the type of product that will be best for you. For more information on menstrual protection, go to www.beinggirl.com/teen/younger/jump/PeriodsPeriod.html.

Hope this is helpful,

Your BeingGirl Experts