Dear BeingGirl Experts,

Lately I have noticed that I have a bit of clear (not blood!) stuff coming out from down there. Does this mean I'm about to start getting my period?

Susie

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Dear Susie,

Knowing when your first period will arrive is just a guess. The vaginal discharge you describe is a sign you are headed in the right direction!

Now is the time to check out all the great articles on BeingGirl.com so you will be prepared when your period does start. Daily vaginal discharge is normal. You will continue to have vaginal discharge after you get your period and for most of your adult life. Some days your discharge might be wet and more like liquid, other days you may notice it is thick and ropey, or it may be thin and slightly sticky to thick and gooey. The color can be clear to white or off-white. You will find the amount of discharge may vary daily. If you do not like the way it feels, or you want to protect your undies, try wearing an Always Pantiliner each day. The pantiliner will absorb the vaginal discharge and help you feel fresh and dry.

Now for what to expect when you first start your period. The actual flow of your period doesn't feel like much—you usually can't even feel it coming out. When you actually get a period, you may feel some dampness in the crotch area—this is probably a small amount of blood on your underwear. Having a dark brown menstrual discharge is not unusual. Menstrual blood may be red, pink or brown. Often girls aren't aware of this when they first start and don't even know they are menstruating when in fact they are.

Hope this is helpful,

Your BeingGirl Experts