What Is a Period?
A simple first guide to what a period is, where period blood comes from, what you might notice, what to do first, and when to ask for help.
Read thisKids & Teens
I’m New to Periods
Simple answers for when you are learning about periods for the first time. This section explains what a period is, why it happens, what words mean, and when to ask a trusted adult for help.
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In this section
Why Do Periods Happen?
A simple guide to why periods happen, how puberty changes the body, what hormones do, and why having a period does not mean you are grown up.
Read thisWhen Will My First Period Start?
A reassuring guide to when a first period might start, signs it may be coming, what it can look like, how to prepare, and what to do at school.
Read thisWhat Is a Menstrual Cycle?
A simple guide to the menstrual cycle, including what it means, what happens during the month, how to track it, and when to ask for help.
Read thisWhat Is Discharge?
A simple guide to vaginal discharge, what it can look like, why it happens, how it differs from a period, and when to ask for help.
Read thisWhat Is Ovulation?
A simple guide to ovulation, what ovaries do, how ovulation fits into the menstrual cycle, what someone might notice, and when to ask for help.
Read thisPeriod Words Explained Simply
A simple glossary of common period words, including period, cycle, uterus, vagina, vulva, ovaries, ovulation, discharge, cramps, PMS and trusted adult.
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Ask Luma in your own words
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Talking to a trusted adult
You can also tell a parent, carer, teacher or school nurse. A short sentence is enough — you do not have to explain everything.
Keep exploring
Related sections
My First Period
What to do if your period starts, how to feel prepared and who you can tell.
Open sectionBlood, Leaks and What’s Normal
Learn what period blood can look like, what leaks mean and when to tell someone.
Open sectionPrivacy, Shame and Period Myths
Periods are not dirty. This section clears up worries, myths and embarrassment.
Open sectionIf you are worried: This information helps you learn and prepare. It does not diagnose or replace advice from a doctor or nurse. If you feel very unwell, have severe pain, are bleeding very heavily, feel faint or something feels wrong, tell a trusted adult or get medical help straight away.