Physical Changes
When will breasts start to grow?
Many girls start to develop breast buds around age 11 but everyone is different! It is okay and normal if it happens before or after that age.
This is the official term for having a period
Menstruation
What is PMS?
PMS is Premenstrual Symptoms and occur the week before the bleeding portion of menstruation. 3 out of 4 menstruating people will develop this.
What causes emotional changes to occur?
Changes in hormones! Estrogen and progesterone are your main hormones involved with puberty and they affect how you feel. One minute you feel happy and the next you are in tears, sometimes for no apparent reason
I cannot play sports during my period
False! You absolutely can play sports. In fact physical exercise may help you feel better during your period.
What is acne?
Acne aka pimples are when the pores of the face become clogged, blocking sebum and sweat from leaving, causing the bumps.
What are the different types of menstruation protection?
Tampons, pads, and liners
What are some behavioral symptoms of PMS?
Behavioral symptoms include: anxiety, depressed mood, crying spells, mood swings, irritability or anger, appetite changes and food craving, trouble falling asleep, and poor concentration.
_________ is normal to feel?
Confusion! This is all new to you and it's completely normal to be confused.
I should bathe frequently during my period.
True! You should bathe regularly, daily if you can, while on your period.
What is vaginal discharge?
Vaginal discharge is a normal occurrence that begins about a year before you start menstruation and lasts for most of your adult life. Sometimes it is wet and thin and sometimes it is rope-like and thick. Both are normal!
How often should you change your menstruation protection products?
Tampons should be changed every 4-8 hours and never left in for more than 8 hours. Pads are changed every 4-6 hours. Liners are changed as often as needed
What are physical symptoms of PMS?
Physical symptoms of PMS include: joint or muscle pain, headache, abdominal bloating, breast tenderness, acne flare-ups, and constipation or diarrhea.
What happens during mood swings?
This can include, crying, happiness, anger, irritability and other emotions during a short period of time.
Acne is normal.
True! Acne is very normal. Remember to wash your face often and don't touch your face with dirty hands.
What causes body odor?
Perspiration aka sweat may create an odor when it comes into contact with the normal bacteria on your skin. You can use deodorant or anti-perspirant to help with the odor. Showering with soap and water daily also helps.
How long does menstruation last?
The entire menstruation cycle is about 28-32 days long but can be anywhere from 21 to 35 days. The actual bleeding portion happens at around days 1-7. This will last anywhere from 2 days to 7 days.
What are symptoms of menstruation?
Symptoms of menstruation include: mood changes, trouble sleeping, food cravings, cramps in the lower back and abdomen, bloating, tenderness of the breasts, and acne.
It is often common to worry what other people think of you during this time. Name the term that describes this experience.
Self- consciousness. Remember you are great the way you are and don't worry about what other people think of you. The most important thing is that you love yourself.
I should flush my tampons and pads down the toilet.
False! These products need to be thrown in the trash, never flushed. Wrap with toilet paper first before throwing away.
When will pubic hair start growing.
Everyone is different but many girls will start to develop pubic hair after they start developing breasts. Pubic hair will start thin and get thicker as you age.
When do girls get start menstruation?
Remember everyone is different. Many girls will start their menstruating about 2 years after developing breasts, soon after the development of pubic hair, and after she starts having vaginal discharge
How can you treat these symptoms?
You can treat these symptoms by exercising, placing a warm towel or heating pad on your abdomen or back, going to bed early, placing a cool towel or ice pack on your head, eating good nutritious food, and realxing!
Feeling very sad, hopeless or worthless can be warning signs of a bigger problem. Name two people you can talk to when you feel this way.
Anyone you feel comfortable with! Your parents, a teacher, a counselor, a nurse, a doctor, a coach, an aunt, an uncle, a grandparent...
It is not okay if my periods are irregular at first.
False! It is normal for your periods to be irregular during the first couple of years