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What are the Signs of a First Menstrual Period?

B. Miller
B. Miller

Some girls don't experience any signs prior to a first menstrual period except when the actual bleeding or spotting starts, while others will experience premenstrual symptoms similar to those that will occur later in life. These can include mood swings or irritability, fatigue, and bloating; some girls will also notice changes in their skin, or that they are more prone to developing blemishes before the first period. The age of a first menstrual period, known as menarche, can vary depending on a number of factors. Some girls experience it as early as age 8 or 9, while others may not get it until they are 13 or 14; the most common ages are 11 and 12.

The first menstrual period can usually be anticipated based on other signs in the body. This is because menstruation usually begins roughly two years after puberty first starts, which is typically indicated by the first appearance of breasts. Many young girls will also experience a growth spurt around this time as well. There are no rules or absolutes, however, and the first menstrual period can really appear at any time for girls once they have reached puberty.

Some girls don't feel any symptoms leading up to their first menstrual periods, while others have the symptoms commonly associated with PMS such as irritability, fatigue and bloating.
Some girls don't feel any symptoms leading up to their first menstrual periods, while others have the symptoms commonly associated with PMS such as irritability, fatigue and bloating.

Because of the nature of the first menstrual period, there are typically not many other physical signs that precede it, and it is often a surprise. Some girls will experience stomach cramps or bloating, however, while others will notice mood changes. They might feel more emotional or more irritable than usual, which can be a good indication. Some might be especially tired, or notice appetite changes. These signs will typically appear just a few days before menstruation begins, and are generally quite similar to PMS symptoms that are experienced by adults with regular menstrual cycles.

Many girls experience irregular cycles when they first start menstruating.
Many girls experience irregular cycles when they first start menstruating.

A first menstrual period will typically be fairly short. Many girls experience irregular cycles for quite a while after the first one, sometimes even for a few years. This means that the length of time in between cycles can be longer or shorter than the 28-day average, or even that a month is skipped here and there. Any girl who is sexually active at this point, and skips a period, should be aware that pregnancy is possible. Each girl matures differently, and some will experience regular menstrual cycles right away, while some women will experience irregular cycles throughout their whole lives; it is impossible to predict, so it is important to keep track of the cycle each month once it begins.

Discussion Comments

fBoyle

I got my first period last month and I had so many period symptoms beforehand. About six months before my period, I started getting a clear discharge from my hormones changing. I also started getting acne spots on my face which is very unusual for me. A week before I got my period, I also started to get spotting and I felt so hungry. I craved sweets a lot.

The day I got my period, I had very bad cramps and pain. I also got a headache. It was hard! My mom says that things will get better as my hormones settle in the next few months.

burcinc

Is it normal to get spotting before the first menstrual cycle?

I haven't had my period yet, but for the past several weeks, I've been seeing a few spots of blood on my underwear. Is this normal?

ddljohn

I didn't have many signs before my first period. I just had very painful cramps about a half hour before I got it.

I remember wondering what was wrong with me and then all of the sudden, I felt moisture. I wasn't expecting my period at all. It was a surprise!

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    • Some girls don't feel any symptoms leading up to their first menstrual periods, while others have the symptoms commonly associated with PMS such as irritability, fatigue and bloating.
      By: lukasmajercik
      Some girls don't feel any symptoms leading up to their first menstrual periods, while others have the symptoms commonly associated with PMS such as irritability, fatigue and bloating.
    • Many girls experience irregular cycles when they first start menstruating.
      By: Africa Studio
      Many girls experience irregular cycles when they first start menstruating.
    • Some girls will experience cramps and bloating during their first period.
      By: xalanx
      Some girls will experience cramps and bloating during their first period.