Top Health Coach | Expert Health Advice

  All About Periods (for Teens) Introduction Periods are a natural part of growing up, but for many teenagers, they can feel confusing, overwhelming, or even scary at first. From cramps and mood swings to figuring out how to manage your flow in school, there’s a lot to learn. If you’ve just started menstruating or are waiting for your first period, this guide will explain everything you need to know—what periods are, why they happen, and how to take care of yourself during them. What Is a Period? A period is when blood and tissue from the uterus leave the body through the vagina. This usually happens once a month as part of the menstrual cycle. The average cycle lasts 28 days, but anything between 21 and 35 days is normal. Bleeding usually lasts 3–7 days. Periods begin during puberty, usually between ages 9 and 16. Why Do Periods Happen? Every month, the uterus prepares for pregnancy by building up a lining of blood and tissue. If no pregnancy occurs, the lining...