Periods : Menstruation What does this mean for ME?
Puberty is started by a hormone being released by the pituitary gland in the brain. This is Oestrogen in girls and Testosterone in boys
Oestrogen causes changes to happen to our bodies grow taller body grows broader (hips widen) breasts start to grow sweat more (this has an odour) hair becomes greasy skin gets greasy, maybe spotty hair grows under arms, on legs and in pubic area (between legs) vaginal discharge periods start
Periods : Menstruation lose blood from your vagina a sign of a normal and healthy body means the body is able to reproduce lasts 3-7 days each month.
WOW! Inside every girl!
Day 1-7 The average menstrual cycle lasts 28 days but no one is average! Day 1-7 The uterus lining is not needed. It comes away and out Through the vagina. This is your period.
Day 7-12 A new egg matures in the ovary. The uterus lining begins to thicken with blood in case this new egg is fertilized and needs somewhere to grow.
Day 12-17 Ovulation occurs. The new egg is released and begins to travel down the fallopian tube.
Day 17-28 The egg reaches the uterus. If not fertilised it shrivels and the uterus lining prepares to shed again. At the end of this stage your next period begins on day one of a new cycle. This cycle continues every month until a woman Reaches the menopause in her 50,s. It is interrupted for a Pregnancy.
When will it happen to ME? usually between 10 and 16 years no “right time” when you body is ready: - about 2 years after breasts grow - soon after pubic hair appears - start to notice discharge
How will this affect my life? Very little! Can still do sport No one can tell Does not hurt – occasional cramps Will not smell
How will this affect my life? Each month you need to consider: using and changing pads hygiene sleep, fluids and diet
Period pains? Yes occasionally. Backache or cramp in lower abdomen First 1 or 2 days of cycle Gets better with age Plenty of exercise Warm bath Help from doctor if needed
Periods : Menstruation Not so bad after all!