Using Tampons Or Pads

You'll have to choose between tampons and menstrual pads to catch your menstrual blood. The choice is entirely up to you, and you may want to try out both to see which you prefer. 

Menstrual pads are pads that you put into your underwear to absorb the menstrual fluids that come out during your period. Many girls are scared to put tampons in and prefer pads for that reason. Pads are available in different sizes, with different absorbency levels, and with or without "wings". 

Tampons are inserted into the vagina. They come in different sizes, and you can also buy them with an applicator that is supposed to make it easier to insert the tampon. You'll probably want to start off with a smaller size if you choose tampons, and practice inserting them. You can sit on the toilet with your legs wide, or stand with one foot on the toilet bowl.

You can be much more active with tampons, and are less likely to leak. Tampons also prevent nasty odors. Whether you choose tampons or pads, you have to change them at least four times a day.

Girls who have started their period should ideally always carry tampons or pads around in their bags, so they don't have to deal with embarrassing leaks when their periods start unexpectedly. 

A third option that is now becoming more popular is reusable menstrual cups, which are folded and then inserted similarly to tampons. They are more environmentally friendly, but may make you nervous for the same reasons tampons could.

Read More: Reusable Menstrual Cups — What Are They, And Why Should You Use One?

Having Periods Means You Can Get Pregnant

Girls usually start being interested in boys (or girls, if they're gay!) during puberty. You may have had your first crush already, and you might even have a boyfriend soon! Puberty means you will develop sexual feelings, and that is totally normal. You might be thinking about losing your virginity and wonder what it will be like. 

Sex is a powerful emotional experience, and getting your period certainly doesn't mean you're emotionally ready for it. But some girls do have sex shortly after they start menstruating, so you should know that having periods also means you can get pregnant now. When you do start thinking about "doing it", make sure you do it safely — with a condom, to protect you from pregnancy and infections at the same time. Even more important than doing it safely is doing it only when you are sure you are ready, and with someone you like and trust.