Symptoms
Specifics
Be Prepared!

Be sure to have
your
Period Pieces
Kit
with you on a
daily basis and
load it with stuff
you need -
sanitary
products, aspirin,
 extra set of
panties...whatever
you need should
be in your Kit.  

Being prepared
means one less
thing to stress
over.  
  • Puberty is a time of growth and change caused by hormones that change you from a girl to a woman.  Some
    of these changes include breast development, growth in height and weight, hair growth under the arms and
    in the pubic area and an increase in body odor.  

  • Puberty starts between the ages of 8-13 and ends between the ages of 16 - 17. But remember, every girl
    develops at her own rate.  Most girls start their periods 1 - 2 years after the start of these changes.

  • A normal menstrual cycle is every 21 - 35 days but the average is every 28 and your period can last
    anywhere from 3 to 7 days.  If you find your period is continuing for longer periods, talk to your mom,
    guardian or a doctor...just to make sure there is nothing wrong.  
    You may notice changes to your body 7 to 10 days before your period begins due to changes in your hormone levels.  These
    changes may include some or all of the following:
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue
  • Cramps
  • Slight weight gain and bloating.
  • Tender breasts
  • Skin break-outs
  • Food cravings (we're thinkin' chocolate)
  • Backache  

    All women have vaginal discharge, a creamy white/yellowish fluid during their monthly cycle.  This is normal but if your
    discharge is unusually heavy, a different color or has a strong smell, talk to someone about it - mom, aunt, doctor, trusted adult
    - as it may be the sign of an infection.  

    You'll notice a change in your emotions before your period - that's normal!  Moody, cranky, irritable, clumsy...it's all part of PMS.  
Solutions
    Activity is a good way to increase your mood and ease pain.  Walking or biking in the fresh air is helpful.

    Exercise is always good - even during a period.  BUT don't push yourself - If you feel tired, rest. Having your period is a great
    excuse to do nothing.  

    Pamper yourself:  do your nails, take a nap, read, watch a movie, CRY, talk, eat chocolate.

    Check out the "Things to Do When You're Blue" page for more suggestions on beating back the symptoms of PMS.

    Pay attention to all the changes.  Use the All About Me Calendar (included in your Period Pieces kit) to track your moods and
    period cycle.  It'll help keep you ready and in control.  

    REMEMBER:  Accidents do happen.  If you stain through to your outer clothes, wrap a sweater, sweat shirt or jacket around
    your waist and go home (if you're in school, ask first!).  Just remember - this can and does happen to every woman.
Your Period:  The
Basics
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Page
  • Open your calendar to the month you first get your period and begin entering your
    information.  For instance, if you got your period January 2nd,  you would mark that date as
    Day 1 of your period.  

  • Count ahead 28 days, and write in an X to mark that as the date to expect your next
    period.   

  • Put a Heart on the day you actually get your period and begin counting again.

  • In between these dates , mark any physical signs such as bloating, tender breasts,
    headaches or tiredness.  Also chart any emotions, or moods you are feeling such as
    cranky, sad, happy, tired and distracted.

  • Put a Yellow Dot  on the days you see discharge. This is usually the middle of your cycle
    and your body is getting ready to menstruate in 10 – 12 days.  

  • Your moods will start to become more intense and your body will start to show some
    physical signs as you get closer to your next period. You will feel a certain way BEFORE
    your period (the dreaded PMS) and absolutely, totally different after you have your period.
Tracking Your Personal Period Cycle