So, you've started your period! This is a big moment, a sign that your body is growing and changing in amazing ways. It's totally normal to feel a mix of emotions – excited, nervous, maybe even a little confused. This blog is here to answer all your burning questions, give you the lowdown on everything period-related, and help you navigate this exciting chapter by making choices that feel good for your body and the planet. No topic is off-limits!

In this guide, we'll cover:

• What to expect during your first period
• How to track your cycle
• Hygiene tips for comfort and confidence
• Choosing the right products
• Essential items for your period toolkit
• Common period myths debunked

What to Expect: Your Body's Amazing Changes 

First things first: everyone's experience with their first period is different.  

• Flow variations: Some people might have a heavy flow right away, while others might have a lighter flow that gradually increases.  
• Cramping: You might experience some cramping, which is totally normal. Think of it like your uterus being a muscle that's working to shed its lining – sometimes that feels like a little ache or squeeze in your lower abdomen or even your back. Over-the-counter pain relievers or a heating pad can help (more on that in the toolkit!).
• Mood changes/Fatigue: You might also notice some mood changes, like feeling a bit more emotional or tired.  These are all due to hormonal shifts, and they're perfectly natural.

Question: Is it normal to have irregular periods at first? 

Answer: Absolutely!  It can take a few months, or even a couple of years, for your cycle to become regular. Your body is still figuring things out hormonally, and that's completely okay. Don't worry if it's unpredictable at first! If you experience severe pain that keeps you from your usual activities, have very heavy bleeding (like soaking through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours), if your periods suddenly become very irregular after they've been regular, or if your period hasn't started by age 16, it's always a good idea to chat with a trusted adult or doctor.

Tracking Your Cycle: Get to Know Your Body's Rhythm 

Tracking your period can help you understand your body better and predict when your next period might arrive. It helps you feel more in control. You can use a period tracking app, a calendar, or even a simple notebook.  

Note down the first day of your period and how long it lasts. You can also track other things you notice, like how heavy your flow is each day, if you have cramps or other physical symptoms (like headaches or backaches), and even how you're feeling emotionally.

Question: Why is tracking my period important? 

Answer: Tracking helps you understand your body's rhythms and can be useful for planning activities and is great information to share with a doctor during appointments if any questions or concerns come up.

Hygiene and Comfort: Feeling Fresh & Confident

During your period, it's important to pay attention to hygiene to stay fresh and comfortable.  

Question: How often should I change my pad?

Answer: It's important to change your pad regularly to prevent leaks and stay feeling clean. It depends on your flow, but a good rule of thumb is every 4-8 hours, or more often if your flow is heavy. Always change it before going to bed or first thing in the morning.

Question: How should I wash during my period?

Answer: Washing your body regularly is key! Use a gentle cleanser for your intimate area and avoid harsh soaps, scented washes, or douches, which can disrupt your body's natural pH balance and cause irritation. Plain water is often best for the intimate area.

Question: Can I still swim or play sports during my period? 

Answer: Of course!  You can play and swim. Listen to your body, if it’s painful, take rest, but if not, movement is often beneficial!

Question: How do I dispose of used pads?

Answer: When changing your pad, wrap the used one tightly in toilet paper or the wrapper of a new pad before putting it in a trash bin. If you're in a public restroom, use the disposal bins provided. Never flush pads down the toilet – they can cause blockages!

Choosing the Right Products for You

There are many different types of period products available. Finding the right period product is a personal journey! There are many different types available, each with pros and cons.

• Pads come in various sizes and absorbencies, from light to heavy flow. These are placed in your underwear to absorb flow and are often the easiest product to start with. They come in various sizes, shapes, and absorbencies. We recommend starting with sustainable pads made from natural materials like Saathi's biodegradable pads. They are comfortable, absorbent, and a much kinder choice for your body and the planet compared to conventional pads made with plastics and chemicals. They come in three absorbency levels (regular, heavy, and overnight) to match your flow needs. They're free from harsh chemicals, plastics, and synthetic fragrances that can irritate sensitive skin.
• As you get more comfortable, you might explore reusable options like menstrual cups (flexible cups inserted into the vagina to collect flow) or period underwear (absorbent underwear). These are great sustainable choices that many people love!

There's no single "best" product – the right fit is the one that feels most comfortable and secure for you.

Want a deeper dive into all the different period products and how to choose between them? We've got a whole blog coming up just for that!

Your Period Toolkit: Essentials for Comfort & Confidence

Having a few essentials on hand can make your period a lot more comfortable. Since you’ve learned about different options, building your toolkit with choices that feel good for your body and the planet is a great next step! Here are some must-haves, including choices that are kind to your body and the planet:

• Pads:  For many, pads are the easiest place to start! They come in various sizes and absorbencies. Consider trying sustainable options made from natural materials like bamboo or plant fibers – they can be gentler on your skin and much better for the environment than conventional plastic pads. Experiment to see which you prefer. 
• Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help ease cramps. While helpful occasionally, it's best not to rely on them constantly. Listen to your body, and if pain is severe or frequent, talk to a trusted adult or doctor. It's always a good idea to talk to a doctor or pharmacist before taking any medication, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
• Heating Pad or Hot Water Bottle: A warm heating pad on your lower abdomen can work wonders for soothing cramps.
• Comfortable Clothes:  Think loose-fitting pants, leggings, or anything that helps you feel relaxed and unrestricted.
• Dark Chocolate (Optional but Highly Recommended!):  A little treat can boost your mood. 

Question: I'm worried about leaking at school.  Any tips?

Answer: Don't worry, it happens to almost everyone at some point! Keep a period kit in your bag with extra pads and a change of underwear, just in case. Knowing you have backup can ease your mind. Don't be afraid to ask a trusted friend, teacher, or school nurse for help if you need it – they've been there or helped someone who has!

Question: What else can help with cramps?

Answer: Besides heating pads and medicine, lots of other things can help soothe cramps! Try taking a warm bath or shower – the heat can be very relaxing and help your muscles. Gentle movement, like walking or light stretching, can also work wonders for some people. Sometimes just resting in a comfy position with a pillow under your knees can help too. Listening to your body and finding what makes you feel most comfortable is key!

Let's Bust Some Period Myths!

You might hear different things about periods from friends, online, or elsewhere. It's important to know the facts! Here are a few common myths:

• Myth: Period blood is "dirty" or "impure."
• Fact: Not at all! Period blood is simply blood and tissue lining that your body no longer needs. It's a natural, healthy, and normal part of the menstrual cycle. Thinking of it as "dirty" is a harmful myth!
• Myth: You can't swim or exercise on your period.
• Fact: Absolutely you can – and should if you feel up to it! Swimming, exercise, and other physical activities are perfectly safe and can even help reduce cramps and boost your mood. With the right period product, there's nothing holding you back!
• Myth: You shouldn't talk about periods in public or with certain people (like dads).
• Fact: Periods are a normal, natural, and healthy part of life! Openly discussing menstruation helps break down stigma, ensures everyone has access to information and support, and builds stronger, more open relationships. Don't feel like you need to whisper about it!
• Myth: Tampons or menstrual cups can get "lost" inside you.
• Fact: This is physically impossible! The vaginal canal is a closed space that ends at the cervix. There's nowhere for a tampon or cup to go past the cervix, and they will stay in place until you remove them.
• Myth: You can't get pregnant during your period.
• Fact: While less likely, it's possible, especially if your cycle is very irregular. It's important to understand your cycle, but remember, safe sex practices are key any time.

Conclusion: Embracing Your Period Journey with Confidence

Starting your period is a natural and exciting part of growing up! It's okay to have questions and feel a mix of emotions – you're not alone. Remember that everyone's experience is unique, and there's no "right" or "wrong" way to have a period.

By understanding what to expect, taking care of your body, asking for support, and finding the products and routines that feel comfortable and align with your values (like sustainable ones!), you can navigate your period with confidence. By choosing sustainable period products like Saathi pads, you're not only taking care of your body with natural materials but also making an incredible difference for our planet. Each sustainable choice prevents hundreds of plastic pads from ending up in landfills or oceans.  

Your period is a sign of your amazing body's capabilities – so embrace this new chapter! You've got this!

Still have questions? We're here for you. Don't hesitate to ask questions and talk to trusted adults in your life. This could be a parent (yes, even dads!), a relative, a school nurse, a teacher, or an older sibling. Talking openly about your period can not only get you the support you need but also helps build stronger, more open relationships, especially with your parents.

Ready to find comfortable and planet-friendly period products?

• Subscribe to get pads delivered to you on a monthly or quarterly basis and save on shipping!
• Join our community on Instagram @saathipads for more tips and support
• Download our free period tracker printable from our website
• Dive deeper into why sustainable choices matter in our blog From Pads to Planet: How Sustainable Period Care Makes a Difference
• Leave a comment below, or connect with us on social media. We love hearing from you and creating a space for open conversations!

Stay tuned for our next blog in the Periodically Sane with Saathi series.