Starting a period is part of the normal process of growing up and is a sign that your body is changing and becoming an adult.

When you understand how your body works you can use it to your advantage and be truly empowered.

1. What is puberty like?
   
   During puberty, you might feel confused or have strong emotions that you’ve never had before. You might feel overly sensitive or become upset easily. Some kids lose their tempers more often and get angry with their friends or families. You also may feel anxious about how your changing body looks.
   
   Puberty is important because it represents a period of profound transition in terms of drives, emotions, motivations, psychology, and social life. Recent studies have suggested that early-stage puberty might play an important role in adolescent brain development, perhaps more so than chronological age. Puberty in girls usually begins between the ages of 8 and 13 and lasts for several years. It is the time when your body develops and matures. Puberty prepares your body so one day you will be able to have a baby. The changes are caused by natural substances in your body called hormones.

2. Hormones
   
   Hormonal changes that occur during a period include an increase in the production of estrogen, a female sex hormone. These changes can cause a girl to experience mood swings, acne, and other physical and emotional symptoms
   
   Hormones are necessary for the human body to function normally. They help regulate your metabolism, body temperature, and mood, among other things. When there’s fluctuation in hormonal levels in either direction, you might face some health issues. Even a small change in your hormones can affect how you feel. Fluctuation in certain hormonal levels may lead to:
   • Mood swings (irritability, depression, and/or anxiety)
   • Heavy or painful periods
   • Poor sleep and fatigue
   • Unexplained weight change
   • Skin problems like acne or dry skin
   • Headaches or brain fog (and other cognitive issues)

Some hormonal fluctuation is normal. 

Many aspects of your lifestyle can cause an imbalance in your hormones. At night, artificial lighting might confuse your body into thinking it’s not late, leading to melatonin suppression. Stress increases adrenaline and cortisol. When your body has too many of these hormones, you may experience mood changes. These hormones can also contribute to cardiovascular issues or weight gain. Regular activity has the potential to prevent overeating because it can help regulate hunger hormones. Exercise offers several benefits to your well-being. It can reduce stress hormones like cortisol while stimulating the production of endorphins. Endorphins can also help to improve your mood. 

Menstrual Health & Confidence

Confidence is something you can have RIGHT NOW. It’s something you have to create within yourself. It is important not to be scared or ashamed of your body or your period. Newsflash – half the population has a period. Period!

Period Facts

• Periods usually start around the age of 12 years, although they can start earlier or later
• During your period you’ll lose on average between 5 to 12 teaspoons of blood, although you could lose more
• For most, the bleeding tends to be heaviest during the first 2 days of your period
• When your period is at its heaviest the blood will be red. On lighter days, it may be pink brown or black

Know your body & be confident