Getting your period for the first time is a big deal—it means your body is doing exactly what it’s meant to do! If you’re wondering what to expect, how to manage it, and what’s totally normal (or not), we’ve got you covered. The most important thing to remember about periods is this: they’re completely normal. If it weren’t for periods, none of us would be here!
What Exactly Is Menstruation?
Menstruation, or a period, happens because your body is going through a natural cycle to prepare for the possibility of pregnancy. Each month, one of your ovaries releases a tiny egg, and your body creates a soft lining inside your uterus (the place where a baby could grow). If the egg isn’t fertilized, the lining breaks down and leaves your body as blood and tissue through your vagina. This is your period—it’s simply your body’s way of resetting!
If you’d like to dive deeper into the science of menstruation, check out our Menstruation 101 blog post.
What to Expect
Your period is part of your menstrual cycle, which usually lasts between 21 and 35 days. For most people, their first period happens between the ages of 9 and 16. It can be light or heavy, last anywhere from 2 to 7 days, and might not be super regular at first. That’s all completely normal!
Common Symptoms
Your body might give you a heads-up that your period is on its way. You may hear this referred to as Premenstrual Syndrome (or PMS for short). Some common symptoms include:
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Cramps (mild to moderate discomfort in your lower belly or back)
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Bloating
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Mood swings
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Tender breasts
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Fatigue
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Headaches
If any of these symptoms become severe or interfere with daily life, it’s worth chatting with a healthcare provider.
Period Products: What Are Your Options?
There are a lot of options out there, and what works best depends on your lifestyle, comfort level, and personal preference. It might take some trial and error to find what works best for you!
🩸Pads
Pads are such an easy, on-the-go option. Just peel the backing and stick it to your underwear. Period pads come in various absorbencies, shapes, and sizes—look for ingredient transparency and certifications like OEKO-TEX 100. (Pro-tip: joni's organic bamboo pads are super thin and soft!)
Quick facts:
✔ Change every 4-8 hours to prevent irritation.
✔ Wings keep pads in place (but won’t help you fly).
✔ Never flush—wrap and toss in the garbage.
Pros: Easy to use, no insertion required.
Cons: Can use lots of plastic (look for plant-based ones instead).
🩸Tampons
A convenient option once you're comfortable with your period. Tampons come in two types: non-applicator/digital (inserted with fingers) and applicator (plastic or cardboard assist). (Pro-tip: joni's organic cotton tampons use zero plastic so they're eco-friendly).
Quick facts:
✔ Read instructions before using.
✔ Start with the lowest absorbency.
✔ The string stays outside for easy removal.
✔ Never flush—dispose of in the trash.
✔ Change every 4-8 hours.
Pros: Great for sports and swimming.
Cons: Can take a little time to get the hang of using; not comfortable for everyone.
🩸Period Underwear & Cloth Pads
Absorbent and reusable, these work like regular underwear or pads—just wear, wash, and reuse.
Quick facts:
✔ Don’t wear longer than 8 hours.
✔ Either wash right away or rinse and dry before throwing in your laundry hamper.
Pros: Sustainable, comfy, and easy to use.
Cons: Higher upfront cost, requires washing so not as easy on-the-go.
🩸Reusable Cups & Discs
Sustainable options that can be worn for several hours. Some love them, others find them tricky.
Quick facts:
✔ Follow instructions for insertion and removal.
✔ Empty and clean as recommended.
Pros: Long wear time, eco-friendly.
Cons: Learning curve, may feel uncomfortable.
Tracking Your Cycle
Tracking your cycle can help you know when to expect your period, recognize patterns in your symptoms, and even predict your mood or energy levels. You can use a simple calendar, a journal, or a period-tracking app. Keeping tabs on your cycle also helps identify any irregularities that may need medical attention. Learn more about tracking your menstrual cycle in this in-depth blog post.
Busting Period Myths
Let’s set the record straight on some common period misconceptions:
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Myth: You can’t swim on your period. Truth: You absolutely can! A tampon or menstrual cup works great in the water.
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Myth: Your period should always be exactly 28 days long. Truth: Menstrual cycles vary from person to person, and even cycle to cycle.
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Myth: Periods are supposed to be painful. Truth: Mild discomfort is normal, but intense pain isn’t—if your cramps are severe, check with a doctor.
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Myth: People who spend a lot of time together sync up. Truth: There’s no scientific evidence to support this idea!
Do you like this game? Check out these other menstrual myths!
Design Your Period Care Kit
Whether you’ve already started your period or are still waiting, preparing a period care kit can make the experience easier and less stressful. Period care is self-care, and you deserve a little TLC!
🎒On the Go:
Many people get their first period while away from home—and most don’t have products with them! While more schools and public places are offering free period care, it’s still a good idea to keep a pad or two in your bag. You never know when you or a friend might need one! Check out these mini boxes.
🏠 At Home:
Make a period self-care kit with comforting items to help you feel prepared. Ideas include:
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Cute period care organizer (like this limited edition bundle from joni, complete with stickers to customize!)
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Heating pad or hot water bottle
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Chocolate
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Herbal tea
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Comfort stuffie
Educate the Family and Normalize Periods
Periods are normal! We don’t hide the fact that we use toilet paper, so why should we hide menstruation? The more we talk about it, the more we break the stigma.
Your family can help by:
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😃 Normalizing the conversation: Periods are a natural part of life—treat them like any other health topic.
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😇 Being respectful: Everyone deserves privacy, but that doesn’t mean periods should be taboo.
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🤗 Encouraging empathy: Teaching boys about periods helps create more supportive environments for everyone.
Celebrate Your Period
Some cultures celebrate a person’s first period—and why not? It’s a milestone!
“In 1997, I got my first period. My parents were divorced, so after school, I went to my mom's house. She helped me with a pad and showed me how to track my cycle. The next weekend, when I was at my dad's house, he gave me a small gift box. Inside was a dolphin necklace. While I can't recall his exact words, the gesture was clear—he was acknowledging my transition into womanhood and expressing pride in who I was becoming.” – Beth Z.
It doesn’t have to be jewelry—a period kit, a special dinner, or even a cake can be a fun way to mark the occasion. What ideas do you have?
Your Period, Your Way
Your period is a natural, healthy part of life. The more you learn about it, the more empowered you’ll feel to manage it in a way that works for you. If you ever have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted adult or healthcare professional—you’re not alone in this!
Got more questions? We’re here to help! Read the joni blog for more answers or email us at hello@getjoni.com.