In Australia, the average age to get a first period is 12 to 13, according to Jean Hailes for Women's Health, though it can begin as early as 9 or as late as 16. Wherever you sit in that range, your body is on its own timetable.
Here is what to expect when you get your first period, from the early signs to the colour, the length of a period and the point at which a GP visit makes sense.
Quick answer: When your first period arrives, expect bleeding that may start bright red and turn dark brown towards the end, lasting roughly 3 to 7 days. The Australian average is 12 to 13. Cycles are often longer and irregular at first; Jean Hailes says they can take 3 to 4 years to settle.
When will my first period come?
Usually somewhere between 9 and 16. The Better Health Channel says puberty for girls usually starts between 8 and 13, and that many girls get their first period around 2 years after their breasts first start to grow. It can come earlier or later than that, and everyone's experience is different.
What are the signs it is getting close?
Breast growth and new body hair are the big ones. Another change is vaginal discharge: according to the Better Health Channel, during puberty the vagina starts to produce a discharge to keep itself moist and clean, and a light odour is perfectly normal.
Nobody can predict the exact day, so it can help to pop a pad or a pair of period undies into your school bag once these changes are under way.
What does a first period look like?
Expect a mix of shades. Jean Hailes says blood can be bright red at the start of a period and dark brown near the end, and that most people only lose a small amount. The healthdirect page on menstruation describes a heavier flow at the start that becomes lighter, and notes you may see small clots.
Small clots are normal. Jean Hailes suggests talking to a doctor if you notice many clots, or clots larger than a 50-cent coin.
How often will my period come at first?
Not on a neat schedule. The Better Health Channel says you might have two periods in one month at first, or skip a month altogether. Over time, a period usually lasts between 2 and 8 days and arrives every 21 to 35 days.
Jean Hailes notes that early cycles are often longer and irregular. Jotting down the start and end of each period makes the pattern easier to see as it develops.
When to see a GP
Make an appointment with your GP if:
- you have not had a first period by 16 (Jean Hailes' guidance);
- your period goes on for more than 8 days;
- you pass lots of clots or clots bigger than a 50-cent coin;
- your periods are getting in the way of school or your social life;
- your discharge becomes quite smelly or turns dark yellow or green.
You can also ring the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 to speak with a registered nurse, any time of day. In an emergency, call triple zero (000).
Frequently asked questions
Why is my first period brown?
Brown is a normal period colour. Healthdirect says period blood can range from bright red to dark brown, and Jean Hailes notes it is often darker near the end. A brownish mark on your undies can be how a first period begins. If you notice discharge that smells strongly or turns dark yellow or green, check in with a GP.
Is it normal to skip a month after my first period?
Yes, especially early on. The Better Health Channel says new periods can come twice in a month or skip a month, and Jean Hailes says it can take 3 to 4 years for a regular pattern. If the gaps worry you, a GP can talk it through.
Can I use a period cup for my first period?
Yes, if you want to. Jean Hailes says you can use tampons or cups from your very first period, or wait until you feel ready, and suggests starting with a small cup. For teens, Lunette recommends Size 1: it holds 25 ml, is 41 mm wide and uses softer silicone.
Curious about a reusable option? The Lunette period cup is made in Finland, lasts up to 10 years with proper care, and comes in a smaller Size 1 that Lunette suggests for teens. Our period cup size guide sets the two menstrual cup sizes side by side.
This article offers general information only and isn't medical advice. Your GP, a school nurse or the healthdirect nurses can answer questions about your own body.
