Normal Periods as a Teen (or Pre-teen)

Why are periods different when you first start?

Periods and the menstrual cycle are controlled by hormones. At the beginning, your body is getting used to making them. Instead of the hormones coming regularly, they are all over the place. This can cause your period to be "irregular," which means it isn't on a set schedule.

So what is normal for early periods?

After your first period, it may take a few months for the next one to come. One might last a couple days, and the next one a whole week. The next period could come in four weeks, but the one after that in three. After about 2 years, your period will settle into a regular schedule.

How can I know when my period is coming if it isn't regular yet?

You can pay attention to other changes in your body. Try to notice how your body feels before your period. You may get cramps, bloating, or breast pain as signs your period is coming.

How do I know if I'm having problems with my period?

Changes in exercise, travel, and stress can all cause changes to your period. You can always check in with a doctor if you are worried. There are some times you should talk to a doctor: if your period lasts longer than 7 days, or if your periods come less than 21 days or more than 45 days apart.

You should also talk to a doctor if you have severe cramps that don't get better, or if your period was regular and becomes irregular.