Dear BeingGirl Experts,

I just got my period for the first time on October 12, and it lasted five days. I was wondering because I heard some girls have an irregular cycle at first, and that some don't, and that some get a regular cycle right from the start. I am wondering about this because I want to be prepared. Thanks for your help and time!

Caitlin

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Dear Caitlin

CONGRATULATIONS!

Some girls do start out with a regular cycle. But it is not unusual to have an irregular cycle for the first few years of menstruating. As a matter of fact, you may not have your next period for a few months or you may have it again in a few weeks. Some girls do start out with a regular cycle.

You will be able to predict your cycle when it does regulate if you keep a private calendar and mark it. You will be able to see how regular you really are. You can also use the period calendar on beinggirl.com to predict your period. Click http://www.beinggirl.com/article/period-calculator to find out how.

To track your cycle, you count from the first day of your period to the first day of your next period to determine how many days your cycle is. Also, your period doesn't come on the same date of the month. If you've already become regular, then each cycle is the same number of days usually anything from 21–45 days for a few years after your first period. 21 to 34 days is average for females who have been having periods for several years. However, cycles for some girls who have recently started, their period alternates as an every other-month to different number of days each month. You will be prepared for the unexpected if you wear an Always Pantiliner daily. This will also protect your panties from discharge stains.

Hope this is helpful,

Your BeingGirl Experts