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WOMEN & WELLNESS It’s important for girls to be well-informed about menstruation, which is part of growing up
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Sahana is 12 years old. She has just started her periods. She is confused and very embarrassed by the entire process of menstruation. She has discussed this with friends but not one of them seems to know enough. It is important for young girls to be
well-informed about this very significant and normal part of growing up.
Menstruation can begin as early as age eight or as late as age 15, but it most often begins around the age of 11 or 12. After attaining puberty, the lining of the uterus is discharged as blood and tissue every month, and this is called the menstrual period.
The menstrual cycle
Every month, the brain produces hormones which cause changes in the uterus and also causes the ovary to produce an egg. When the egg does not get fertilised, the lining of the uterus is shed as menstrual blood. An average menstrual cycle lasts 28-30 days, counting from the first day of one period to the first day of the next. Normal cycles can vary from 21 to 35 days.
The first few periods
In most cases, the first few periods can be very scanty with only a few drops of blood or spotting. In the beginning, it is not unusual to have irregular periods with a gap of several weeks between periods. On the other hand, some girls can have very frequent periods and the flow can be heavy or prolonged. These variations are because the hormonal connection between the brain and the ovaries is still immature and ovulation does not occur at regular intervals. It can take up to four years for periods to get settled into a regular pattern.
A young girl’s concerns
Is it obvious to others when she is having her period?
Not at all. With the thin pads that are available now, nobody can guess a girl is having her periods.
What is normal flow?
Usually changing about two to three pads for three to four days is normal. If a girl has to change pads more frequently than that or if the periods are prolonged for more than one week, it is prudent to see a doctor. If needed, medication can be prescribed to reduce the flow. Does having scanty flow make one fat?This is an old wives’ tale and not true. Nor does heavy bleeding make one underweight.
Does a girl have to be physically inactive during her periods?
A girl can lead a completely active life during her periods, including taking part in physical activity in school. If the periods are heavy or painful, medication is available which can make her comfortable enough to be active.
Are there any food restrictions during a period?
Not at all. One can eat anything.
Personal care during periods
During the period, pads or panty liners can be used to absorb the menstrual flow. A girl will take a few months to figure out what works best for her. There are pads available which can be used during heavy days and others for use during the night to avoid soiling. Some have “wings” that fold under the underwear to provide better protection. Panty liners can be used for light days. It is smart to keep pads in the school bag so that one is never unprepared. Pads should be changed every four to six hours or whenever they seem full or begin to feel soaked or uncomfortable.
Pain and discomfort during periods
Many girls will have some degree of discomfort during the periods. Most of the time it may be so mild that it can be easily ignored. There can be mild cramping in the lower abdomen or pain in the lower back. Moderate to severe pain can be managed with paracetamol, ibuprofen or mefenamic acid. Hot water fomentation or heating pads can also be useful.
Bloating may be present and the breasts may feel heavy and tender. Headaches, feeling tired, and mood swings are not uncommon. There can also be craving for some foods, usually sweets and chocolates.
It is a good idea for adolescents to take a good iron supplement for 3 months every year to prevent anaemia, which is common in Indian women.
GITA ARJUN
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