What Age Do Girls Start Puberty?
Girls typically begin puberty between the ages of 8 and 13, before the menarche. The first menstruation normally occurs after age 11.
Understanding these milestones can help parents provide support and guidance as their child navigates this significant transition.
What is the First Period?
Periods mark the beginning of fertility and typically occur monthly as part of the menstrual cycle. This when a woman sheds the lining of her uterus.
Every individual’s experience is different: some may have mild or no symptoms, while others may experience discomfort or pain.
Signs and Symptoms of a First Period
Recognising the signs that your daughter's first period is approaching can help both of you prepare.
Common indicators include:
- Growth spurts and breast development
- Pubic and underarm hair growth
- Abdominal cramps or discomfort
Common Causes of Period Pain
Period pain and discomfort is common before or after a period. It happens when the womb tightens during a period and is a normal part of menstruation and a normal menstrual cycle.
Some conditions causing painful periods include
- Endometriosis and Adenomyosis – where the womb tissue begins growing in other places
- Fibroids – growths in and around the womb
- Pelvic inflammatory disease – this is an infection of the womb, fallopian tubes and ovaries
- An intrauterine device (IUD) – in some cases, these can cause period pain, particularly during the first 3 to 6 months of having it
Types of Period Pain
Everyone experiences pain differently – period pain is no exception.
Classic symptoms can include any, or all, of the following:
- Pain in your tummy at the start of the period or some days before the period
- A sharp or dull ache in the tummy/lower abdomen
- Cramps or tummy pain that spreads to the back and thigh
What to Do When Periods Start
If period pain is getting your daughter down, these remedies can help:
- Use a heat pad or hot water bottle wrapped in a tea towel
- Warm baths or showers
- Gentle exercise like yoga, swimming, walking or cycling
- Massaging your tummy or back
- Over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen
Providing a discreet bag with items such as pads, spare underwear, and pain relief can help your child feel prepared for their first period, especially at school or while away from home.
How Ibuprofen Can Help
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) widely used for help in relieving period pain.
NSAIDs work by reducing the amount of prostaglandins in your body. They can be taken as soon as cramping begins. If you can’t take NSAIDs, you could try another pain reliever like paracetamol.
For best results, ibuprofen should be taken as soon as the cramping starts to reduce intensity of the symptoms.
Always follow the dosage instructions on the packaging and consult a healthcare professional if pain persists.
Support with Nurofen Pain Relief
Nurofen Express 200mg Liquid Capsules, is suitable for ages 12 and above, helps reduce period pain effectively.
When to See a Doctor
While period pain is usually manageable, certain symptoms warrant medical attention:
- Periods becoming more painful, heavier or irregular
- Pain during sex* or when peeing or pooing
- Bleeding between periods
Every young person’s experience with their first period is unique. Open communication, preparation, and support can make this milestone less intimidating and more manageable.
*For those of legal age only.
This article is for general information only and not intended as a substitute for medical advice. All information presented on these web pages is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. In all health-related matters, always consult your healthcare professional.
Always read the product label. Use only as directed. Incorrect use could be harmful. If symptoms persist consult your healthcare professional.
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