WORLD MENSTRUAL HYGIENE DAY: Learn about your first period and how to take care of yourself.

Menarche is the start of a woman’s period, and it can be a confusing time for an adolescent or pre-teen. Because pubertal changes are linked to emotional as well as physical changes, it is critical for parents to keep their children informed about the metamorphosis, sexual health, menstrual hygiene, and other topics.

The order of pubertal changes, according to Victor King, a health educator, is as follows: between the ages of 8 and 15, a girl’s body begins to change.

These modifications take place in a certain order:

1. Thelarche/breast development: the formation of tiny breast buds beneath the nipple.

2. Pubicand axillary hair (pubarche): After the formation of breast buds, small fine hair growth in the armpits and pubic area is noted.

3. Growthsurge: Soon after, a growth spurt occurs. By the time she receives her first period, a girl has reached the majority of her adult height, though she may continue to grow until she is 16-20 years old.

The foregoing changes culminate in the first period/menarche, which is typically regarded as a child’s official entry into adulthood.

“From the range of ages of 8 – 13, a child’s breast and axillary hair begins to show up. Genetics, diet, and socio – economic factors all play a role in puberty age. Obese kids are more likely to reach puberty early than kids with a normal BMI. “Within 2-5 years of the formation of a breast bud/axillary & genital areas, parents can expect their kid to get her first period,” the health educator says, adding that the disappearance of hormonal changes and pubic hair at 13 years of age requires additional investigation.

Menstrual Awareness: Parents should teach their youngster about menstrual periods as soon as they feel a change in her body, including what it means and the different types of menstrual hygiene products available, such as sanitary pads, tampons, and menstrual cups, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of each.

“Most essential,” the health educator advises, “they have to let her aware this is a common occurrence.”

What can you expect in the years after the first period?

The first period, according to the Health Educator, signifies the stimulation and growth of the hypothalamo-pituitary-ovarian pivot (nervous indicators between the brain and the sexual system), which was dormant during childhood. In only 5 years of first period, a regular pattern emerges.

Typical bleeding patterns at this time include:
– Period: approximately 10 days (7days most times)
– Duration between cycles: 21-45 days
– Pad/tampon change frequency: 3-6 times each day

“A girl should be checked for thyroid issues, PCOS, and bleeding disorders if she has excessive bleeding for more than 7 days or no menstruation for more than 90 days after her first period.” A typical adult menstrual period with a 21-35 day interval develops after 2-5 years. Dysmenorrhea (painful periods) is a common ailment. It should be investigated if it is subduing, needing medicine, or stopping her from conducting routine activities,” she says.

HPV vaccination and sex education

Despite the fact that most parents are uneasy, now is the best moment to teach their child about his or her body, sex, protection, and pregnancy. “The first menstruation could also serve as a gentle reminder to be vaccinated against cervical cancer with the HPV vaccine.” The vaccine is advised for girls aged 9 to 26 years old since it is most helpful before the initiation of sexual engagement,” the doctor concludes.

Note: The material in this article is provided for academic purposes only and is not meant to replace professional medical advice. If you have any questions about your health or a medical problem, always seek the advice of your doctor or another trained health expert.