Welcome to your one-stop guide to what's happening to your body, how to handle it, and how to talk about it. 

We're here to help you understand everything you need to know about periods, scientifically known as ‘menstruation,’ and the menstrual cycle. Why is this important? Because whether you're a boy or a girl, neither or both, young or old, this is something we'll all encounter, directly or indirectly. It's all about being informed and supportive, so let's break the stigma and get the facts straight. We're here to make it easy and approachable for everyone!

Aunt Flo, Shark Week, the Crimson Tide. Periods. This monthly visitor comes by many names, but what exactly is it?

When people who menstruate undergo the changes of puberty, hormones are released which signal the body to prepare for potential pregnancy. This triggers the ovaries to release an egg to be fertilised, a process known as ‘ovulation.’ When an egg goes unfertilised within the few days following ovulation it begins to break down, and the lining of the uterus, which had thickened in preparation of pregnancy, starts to shed. This shedding of the uterine lining kicks off the process of menstruation, where the disintegrated tissue passes through the cervix and exits the body through the vagina.

It's essentially the body's way of saying,
"Hey, you're not pregnant!"

Embrace Period Talk

Looking for Something Specific?

Maybe you're here because you just got your first period (yay!), or perhaps just to learn a little more about what's happening to your body each month. The information on this page has been lovingly adapted from our period education program, Period Talk by Talk Revolution, and covers everything you'll need to know to get through your period - or to support a loved one who menstruates. 

So let's start with the easy stuff! What info are you looking for? 

When to Expect Your First Period & What to do When it Arrives

On average, most people with a uterus will have their first period between the ages of 12 and 13, however, some people get it as early as 8, and others might have to wait until they're 16. Interestingly, a few may not get it at all! When it does arrive, it can be a bit surprising. You might notice some tummy cramps and see brownish blood in your underwear. But don't worry, it's all part of growing up! It's essential to feel comfortable talking to people you trust, like your closest friends and family, about it. They can help you navigate this new phase in life.

Your Period Toolkit: What you NEED to Know

Let's talk about the essentials for handling your period. We've got you covered:

Period Products: Your Period, Your Choice

During your period, you have various options to stay comfortable and protected. These include pads, tampons, cups, and even period underwear. The choice depends on your preference and activities.

• For swimming, tampons or cups are your go-to options. There’s also period swimwear now too if you fancy giving them a crack.
• Pads come in different types and are suitable for various situations.
• Some prefer cups for their ease and practicality.
• Period underwear is eco-friendly and offers comfort and leak protection.
• Organic tampons and pads are always a good option, but are a bit more expensive.
• Cloth pads are also a good choice for those seeking a reusable option.

The key is to explore these choices and find what works best for you. It's your period, and you have the freedom to choose what suits your body.

Think of your menstrual cycle as a hormonal rollercoaster ride. Three main hormones oestrogen, testosterone, and progesterone, have their ups and downs in a specific pattern. These hormonal shifts don't just impact your period; they influence your mood, energy levels, love life, spending habits, sleep quality, food cravings, and overall health.

Knowing this is like having a heads-up on how you'll feel and behave during your cycle. It's pretty awesome because you can plan your days, weeks, and months accordingly, taking advantage of high-energy days and embracing the chill ones. It's like having your body's secret calendar!

Meet the Hormones

Ever wondered about those hormones that rule the show in our bodies?
Let's break them down:

OESTROGEN/ESTROGEN

This powerhouse hormone is like your body's multitasker. It's the one behind the changes during puberty, like breast growth, and it even affects your skin and bone health. Oestrogen also keeps your menstrual cycle in check. When it's at its peak, it triggers the release of an egg, a key part of the cycle. If oestrogen levels drop, ovulation might not happen. Your ovaries are the champions producing this hormone, and it naturally decreases after menopause.

PROGESTERONE

Another player produced by your ovaries and adrenal glands. It's a pregnancy supporter, helping maintain it. During your monthly cycle, it encourages the endometrium (the lining of your uterus) to prepare for a fertilised egg. But if that egg doesn't show up, progesterone levels dip, leading to your period. Sometimes, high progesterone levels are the culprits behind PMS symptoms like breast tenderness and mood swings. It's also the hormone which has you craving favourite comfort foods that are high in fat and calories because your body thinks it may have gotten pregnant during ovulation. 

TESTOSTERONE

Mostly known as a "male" hormone, but everyone has it! It plays a role in regulating energy and mental state. Men's testosterone levels are much higher, but those who menstruate also produce it in their ovaries. It's responsible for some male characteristics and helps
with overall body function. 

So, these hormones are the MVPs behind many aspects of our lives, from puberty to pregnancy, and they're just doing their thing, even if we don't always notice.

Understanding Period Pain: What You Need to Know

But wait, there's more!

Premenstrual Syndrome: Those Pesky Pre-Period Symptoms

What Causes PMS Symptoms?

Nutrition & Period Pain: Finding Relief Through Food

Ever thought about using food to tackle those pesky period symptoms? Your diet can be your secret weapon against period discomfort. Give these nutritional allies a try and see if they help make your periods smoother!

Omega-3: You've probably heard of it as the "good fat." It's like your period's best friend because it helps reduce inflammation. Research says that adding enough Omega-3 to your diet, either through food or supplements, can significantly ease period pain.

Eating salmon 2-3 times a week should get you enough Omega-3 to ease period pain. But if you're not a fan of fish, no worries! You can go for fish oil or krill oil supplements (if you eat animal products) or try walnuts or flaxseed oil if you're going the vegetarian route. 

Vitamin B1: This B vitamin is a period pain fighter too, and you can find it in nuts, fish, and legumes. Research suggests that a relatively high dose (100mg/day) can work similarly to Fish Oils in reducing period pain. Getting 100mg from food alone would be a challenge, but you can try increasing your intake of Vitamin B1 through your meals, especially from nuts (macadamia and pistachio) and fish (tuna and salmon). If you're already eating fish regularly, you're in for a double win with both Omega-3 and Vitamin B1.

Sad to say that for some, periods can make their life a misery if left untreated. Here’s a few common period-related health issues and conditions that can affect individuals with female reproductive anatomy.

Endometriosis: This condition occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. It can lead to severe menstrual pain, heavy periods, and in some cases, fertility problems.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a hormonal disorder that can cause irregular periods, heavy bleeding, and the development of small cysts on the ovaries. It may also lead to issues with fertility.

Amenorrhea: This is the absence of menstrual periods. Primary amenorrhea can occur if someone hasn’t started their period by the age of 16, while secondary amenorrhea is the absence of periods for more than 3-6 months in someone who previously had regular cycles. Various factors, including stress, hormonal imbalances, and certain medical conditions, can lead to amenorrhea.

Dysmenorrhea: This is a medical term for painful periods. It can be primary (common menstrual cramps) or secondary (caused by an underlying condition, like endometriosis). Dysmenorrhea can range from mild discomfort to severe pain.

Menorrhagia: This condition is characterised by heavy menstrual bleeding that lasts longer than seven days. It can lead to anaemia and may be caused by hormonal imbalances, fibroids, or other underlying medical issues.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): PMS refers to a range of physical and emotional symptoms that occur in the days leading up to menstruation. These can include mood swings, bloating, breast tenderness, and fatigue.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): PMDD is a more severe form of PMS, characterised by intense mood disturbances and physical symptoms. It can significantly affect a person's quality of life.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): This is an infection of the female reproductive organs and can lead to irregular periods and chronic pelvic pain.

Fibroids: Uterine fibroids are non cancerous growths of the uterus that can lead to heavy periods, pain, and pressure in the pelvis.

It's important to note that these conditions can vary in severity and it’s always a good idea to get yourself evaluated and/or treated as soon as you can.

If you or someone you know is experiencing unusual or severe period-related symptoms, consult with a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and management.

Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)

Now let's chat about Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS).
It's crucial to know the basics:

TSS is super rare, but it's something to be aware of during your period. It can happen when certain bacteria including Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes go a little wild.

To lower the risk, change your tampons regularly (every 4-8 hours is golden) and opt for the lowest absorbency needed. Consider pads or period undies too. And if you ever feel feverish, dizzy, or rashy during your period, seek help – better safe than sorry.

Beliefs and Traditions Surrounding Periods

Did you know that in some parts of the world, there are strict traditions and beliefs about what people can or can't do during their period?

For example:

• In certain cultures, women must spend their entire period isolated in a hut away from their family and village.
• In another country, they're not allowed to enter the kitchen or participate in worship during menstruation.

But here's the cool part! In some places, people celebrate periods with massive parties, inviting friends and family to join in the fun.

So, how would you like to remember your first period? It's fascinating to explore the different ways people view and treat periods worldwide.
It's all about perspective!

Access to Period Products: A Basic Human Right

Imagine not being able to afford period products.

It's a reality for many people around the world, even here in Australia. Those experiencing period poverty often resort to using uncomfortable substitutes like socks, toilet paper or newspaper. This situation can lead to missing school, affecting education and grades.

But here's the good news—access to period products should be a basic human right, and there are organisations working to ensure everyone has what they need to get through their period. Organisations like us! Let's support efforts to make periods manageable with comfort and dignity for all.