Period symptoms include the presence of menstrual blood, lower abdominal cramps, breast tenderness, and moodiness.
Some people experience symptoms like cramping and moodiness a few days before they begin bleeding.
This article looks at the most common period symptoms.
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It also discusses the use of period products like tampons and pads.
Common Period Symptoms
The main sign of menstruation is vaginal bleeding.
This is a result of hormonal changes that prepare a female body for pregnancy.
It is slightly different for every individual.
Your first period is calledmenarche.
It can take several months, or longer, for your period to establish a routine.
have a go at be patient with your body while it’s entering thisnew phase of your life.
Be sure to ask your parents, healthcare provider, or school nurse any questions you may have.
Sometimes, you maybleed without having your period.
This is known asspotting.
Cramps
Your period may come with cramps.
This is known asdysmenorrhea.
Cramps are resulting from youruterus contractingas it works to shed its lining.
Some people never get cramps, while others experience severe pain and fatigue every month.
Some cramps are normal, especially during your teen years.
Debilitating cramps that affect your day-to-day functioning are not.
If you have severe cramps, speak to a healthcare provider or a medical professional you trust.
Premenstrual Syndrome
You may also experiencepremenstrual syndrome(PMS).
PMS is a collection of symptoms that some people get around the time of their periods.
There are over-the-counter medications that can help lessen PMS symptoms.
Each product offers different levels of absorbency, which indicates how much blood it can hold without leaking.
have a go at match your normal flow and your need for absorbency with the product label.
Be sure to read any special recommendations the company has for how to best use their product.
After trying a few different types, you will likely find a product that works well for you.
With either option, it should bechanged at least every four to eight hours.
With pads, this is primarily for sanitary reasons.
For tampons, it is also to prevent health conditions such astoxic shock syndrome (TSS).
Normal blood flow from your period should not cause a bad odor.
Ask your healthcare provider about it if it continues.
Using tampons labeledextra absorbentis not a good idea.
It’s better to use a tampon designed for a lighter flow and to change it more often.
This will help you track your menstrual cycle, a practice you’ll probably use throughout your life.
Plus, if you have a friend who needs one, you’ll have that one she can use.
These symptoms may be mild or severe.
If they interfere with your day-to-day life, talk to your healthcare provider.
Rest assured that symptoms like cramps and PMS will pass and do your best to wait them out.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.Heavy and abnormal periods.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.What you should know about breakthrough bleeding with birth control.
Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.What are the symptoms of endometriosis?
Office on Women’s Health.Premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Toxic shock syndrome (TSS).
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.FAQ049: Your first period (especially for teens).
