As girls approach their teen years, many changes occur to prepare their bodies for adult life. The body grows taller, forms breasts, and grows hair. Another change prepares the body for pregnancy. Once the body, brain and womb are old enough, a monthly bleeding cycle occurs. The lining of the womb prepares for pregnancy each month. If a pregnancy does not occur, the lining is washed clean with blood. This blood appears from the woman's vagina. This monthly cycle is called menstruation, often referred to as her "period". It usually begins around the age of 12, but can start as early as age 8 or as late as 16. If menstruation does not start by age 16, help is needed. There are tests that can check for normal growth and cycles. If periods stop for 6 months, without a pregnancy, before age 35, a health care provider should be notified. From her first period on, a woman can get pregnant. The ability to get pregnant lasts until periods stop for a year, usually around age 51.

How often a period comes and how long it lasts varies from person to person. There are even variations within a woman's monthly cycle, which occur with stress or illness. Most women will bleed 3 to 7 days every 26 to 35 days. There is no need to worry if you vary from this unless there is a lot of pain, heavy, or long-lasting bleeding. Keep a diary of your bleeding and feelings to help figure out if there is a problem.

Bleeding is not the only sign the body gives as we go through each monthly cycle. When the body is ready for a pregnancy, there is usually a heavy, watery discharge from the vagina. This happens about 14 days from your next period. Mid-cycle pain during ovulation, is common. Most women feel their period coming with some breast and pelvic pains. Their emotions can be confusing at this time as well. Cramping with the blood flow is also normal. If any of these signs seem too severe, tell your healthcare provider. There are ways to lessen the more annoying problems.

A good diet, that is low in salt, and daily exercise helps the body function at its best. Medicines, like naproxen or ibuprofen, can help with pain and discomfort with your period. Drugs and caffeine can make the cycle worse, especially before your period. Learning the cues your body gives, and when to expect them, can better help you manage your periods.

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