One clear sign of puberty is when people start to menstruate or have their period.
What is it?
Ovaries make hormones and store eggs. Hormones help the eggs grow and mature. About once a month, the ovaries release an egg into the fallopian tubes. Hormones also help build a thick lining of blood vessels inside the uterus. It is called the endometrium. When a person gets pregnant, this is where a baby grows.
When someone does not get pregnant, their body sheds the endometrium and the egg. This is menstruating.
How long?

The menstrual cycle is from the first day of bleeding to the last day before their next period—usually about 25 to 35 days.
Everyone is different, but a period usually lasts from three to seven days. On average, about two tablespoons (30 mL) of blood is lost.
When does menstruation start?
Menstruation starts during puberty. No one can tell exactly when—everyone is different. Many get some white or yellow fluid on their underwear, which shows period may start soon.
Pain
The blood loss during menstruation does not hurt. Some people get cramps or stomach pain before and during their period. If this happens, try:
- medication such as Advil
- using heat pack on the abdomen
- exercising regularly
- Relaxing or meditating
Managing Menstruation
Each person needs to choose the option that is right for them. If they have questions, they can talk to a nurse or trusted adult.
Tampon

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A small cotton-like plug that fits inside the vagina to absorb the blood.
- Stays in the vagina for 4-6 hours, depending on how much blood.
- Come in many different sizes and shapes, to suit how much blood.
- Always follow instructions to use them.
- Buy them at the local grocery or convenience stores or pharmacies.
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Pads

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A disposable pad to absorb blood, with a strip on the bottom that sticks to underwear.
- Come in many different sizes and shapes
- Buy them at the local grocery or convenience stores or pharmacies.
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Re-usable pads

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A cloth pad to absorb blood; wings wrap around underwear and snap in place.
- Come in many different sizes and shapes.
- Wash and re-use many times; save money.
- Buy them online or make them. Tutorial
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Menstrual cup

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A small cup fits inside the vagina to catch the blood and hold it.
- Can stay in the vagina for up to 12 hours.
- Wash and re-use.
- Come in different sizes for different sized girls/women.
- Buy online: Diva cup, Lunette cup, Eva cup.
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