Day 10 — Your Period

“Even to your old age, I will be the same, and I will bear you up when you turn gray. I have made you, and I will carry you; I will sustain you and deliver you.”

— Isaiah 46:4 (BSB)

Today, let’s talk about something every girl needs to know about: your period.

Some girls feel nervous or embarrassed about periods. Some have heard confusing things. Let’s clear it up with the simple truth.

What is a period? Inside a woman’s body is an organ called the uterus (also called the womb). It’s where a baby grows before it’s born. Starting at puberty, about once a month, the uterus builds up a soft lining. When a baby isn’t growing there, the body lets that lining go, and it leaves the body as blood through the vagina over a few days. That’s called a period, or menstruation.

A period is part of how God designed a woman’s body, so that one day, when she’s a grown woman, she could have a baby if God gives her one. Your mom can tell you more about that part when you’re ready.

When does it start? Most girls get their first period somewhere between about ages 10 and 15. It usually comes a couple of years after your chest starts to develop. Some girls get it earlier, and some later. Both are normal.

What is it like? A period usually lasts about three to seven days, and comes about once a month. At first it might not be regular. You might have a little bleeding or a lot. Some girls get cramps (an achy feeling in their lower belly), feel tired, or feel more emotional before or during their period.

What do I do? Girls use pads (which stick inside your underwear) or other products to catch the blood. Your mom or a woman you trust can show you what to use and how. It’s a great idea to keep a pad in your backpack, just in case. If your period ever surprises you at school, a school nurse or teacher can help.

Is it normal? Yes! A period is healthy and normal. It’s not dirty, gross or shameful. Every woman in your life has experienced it.

When should I tell someone? Tell a parent if your cramps are really painful, if bleeding is very heavy, or if anything worries you. A doctor can help.

Isaiah’s promise is for every stage of life: “I have made you, and I will carry you.” God made your body. And He’ll carry you through every change, from girlhood to old age.

Think about it: How do you feel about getting your period? What questions do you still have?

Try this: Talk with your mom or a woman you trust about periods. Ask her to help you put together a small kit to keep in your backpack.

Dear God, thank You for designing my body so wonderfully. Help me not to be afraid or embarrassed about my period. Thank You that You made me, and that You’ll carry me through every change. Help me talk to women I trust when I have questions. In Jesus’ name, Amen.