Dear BeingGirl Experts,

I just have a small question because I'm a little worried. I start school soon, as almost every one does, and I got my period for the first time last month. It's almost been a month now, and I don't know when it'll come again, and since I'm starting school it's even worse. What should I do so that when it comes again, I'm not at school and everyone gets to know? Or should I even expect it again this month?

Nora

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Dear Nora,

Periods can be quite irregular the first couple of years, so I can't help you predict the month ahead, but I will teach you how to do this. Your period will probably not come flowing out heavily immediately from the start. It is more likely that you will notice some dampness or wetness and excuse yourself to the restroom to find that it has begun. This is why it is a good idea to use Always pantiliners for light coverage in case you get your period unexpectedly. You can keep an Always pad in your locker or backpack, or get one from the nurse or a trusted teacher in case your period begins in school.

Also, you need to become aware of the signals your body sends around the time your period arrives so you will be aware you are about to start. Some females get cramping, some get a pimple or two, while others may get sore or tender breasts. You will have signals your body sends and as you have a few more periods notice your unique signs.

From now on keep a private period calendar and mark it. 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. 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—anything from 21 to 35 days is average. However, in some girls the cycle alternates as an every-other-month different number of days. Periods average 2–7 days.

Hope this is helpful,

Your BeingGirl Experts