What is a period?

Here is the simple version.

  • Your body grows — Periods usually start during puberty.
  • The uterus builds a lining — The uterus is also called the womb.
  • The lining leaves — Blood and tissue leave through the vagina.
  • You can ask for help — Use your period product and tell a trusted adult if needed.

Periods are normal. You are not alone.

Quick answer

A period is when blood leaves your body through your vagina.

It is a normal part of growing up for many girls and people with a uterus. It can feel surprising at first, but it is not dirty, bad or something to be ashamed of.

Why does it happen?

Inside the body, there is an organ called the uterus. Some people call it the womb.

Each month, the uterus builds a soft lining. If the body does not need that lining, it leaves the body as blood and tissue. That is your period.

You do not need to remember all the science straight away. The main thing to know is: A period is a normal body process. It means your body is growing and changing.

Where does period blood come from?

Period blood comes from inside the uterus and leaves through the vagina.

It does not come from the place where you wee. Wee comes from a different opening.

What might I notice?

  • red, dark red, brown or pink blood
  • blood in your underwear
  • blood when you wipe after using the toilet
  • cramps in your lower tummy
  • feeling tired, emotional or uncomfortable
  • needing a period product

Brown blood can be normal. It is often just older blood leaving the body more slowly.

What should I do if I think my period has started?

  • use your period product if you have one
  • use folded toilet paper for a short time if you do not have a product yet
  • tell a trusted adult, such as a parent, carer, teacher, school nurse or older sibling
  • change your underwear if you need to
  • wash your hands
  • ask for help if you feel unsure

You could simply say: “I think I started my period. Can you help me?”

When should I ask for help?

Tell a trusted adult or healthcare professional if:

  • you are scared and do not know what to do
  • you are bleeding so much that it soaks through products quickly
  • you feel faint, dizzy or very unwell
  • your pain is very bad
  • you are vomiting because of pain
  • your period stops you going to school or doing normal things
  • something feels wrong to you

Ask Luma

You could ask: “I think I started my period. What do I do?” or “Is brown blood normal?”

Final reassurance

Getting your period can feel strange at first, but you do not have to figure it out alone.

Periods are a normal part of growing up for many people. With the right information, products and support, they can become much easier to manage.