Your Daughter's First Period: What to Expect and When to Seek Help

Menarche in young girls?

My daughter is 12 years old and in the first year of middle school.
On March 10th, in the afternoon, she noticed a little blood on her underwear while using the restroom at school.
However, she didn't use a sanitary pad because she didn't know how.
It wasn't until 9 PM, after her tutoring session, that she showed me her underwear, which had a small amount of blood along with some discharge.
I believe this is the onset of her menstruation, but from the afternoon until she returned home, the bleeding did not increase, and she hasn't had any further bleeding in the following two days; there was only that little bit on the afternoon of March 10th.
I would like to know if this is normal.
If it is not normal, should we see a doctor? Should we go to a gynecologist or a pediatrician? Thank you.

Kandi, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/12

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

When menstruation first begins, both the cycle and the amount of menstrual flow can be irregular.
Generally, it takes about 1 to 2 years, along with a regular routine, for a stable cycle to establish.

Reply Date: 2022/03/12

More Info

It's completely normal for a girl to experience her first period, also known as menarche, around the age of 12, although it can vary widely from ages 9 to 16. Your daughter's experience of noticing a small amount of blood is typical for the onset of menstruation. Many girls may have light spotting or only a small amount of bleeding during their first period, and it may not be a full flow right away.
In your daughter's case, since she experienced a small amount of blood on March 10 and then did not have any further bleeding for the next couple of days, this can be considered normal. It's common for the first few menstrual cycles to be irregular, both in terms of timing and flow. This is due to the body still adjusting to the hormonal changes that come with puberty.
However, there are a few signs to look out for that might indicate a need for medical attention:
1. Prolonged Absence of Periods: If your daughter does not have another period within the next few months, it might be worth consulting a healthcare provider to ensure everything is progressing normally.

2. Excessive Bleeding: If she experiences heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours), this could be a sign of a more serious issue.

3. Severe Pain: While some cramping is normal, if she experiences severe pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter pain medications, it would be advisable to seek medical advice.

4. Other Symptoms: If she experiences symptoms such as extreme fatigue, dizziness, or any other concerning symptoms, these should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

In terms of which type of doctor to see, both pediatricians and gynecologists can provide care for young girls experiencing their first period. A pediatrician can help with general health concerns and provide guidance on menstrual health, while a gynecologist specializes in female reproductive health and can offer more specific advice regarding menstrual issues. If you feel more comfortable, starting with a pediatrician might be a good option, as they can refer you to a gynecologist if necessary.

It's also important to have open and supportive conversations with your daughter about her menstrual health. Educating her about what to expect during her periods, how to use sanitary products, and the importance of tracking her cycle can empower her and help alleviate any anxiety she may have about menstruation.
Encourage her to keep a record of her menstrual cycle, noting the start and end dates, flow intensity, and any symptoms she experiences. This information can be very useful for healthcare providers if any issues arise in the future.

In summary, what your daughter is experiencing is likely normal for her first period. However, keep an eye on her symptoms and encourage her to communicate openly about her experiences. If any concerning signs arise, don't hesitate to seek medical advice.

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