Period Help
Learn about periods and find resources to help manage them!
So you started your period...
For any person, getting their period for the first time can be scary. Individuals with autism or other I/DD diagnoses often experience an added layer of discomfort, from lack of clarity around the topic or sensory issues. However, it doesn't have to be scary!
What is a period?
Periods happen when the lining of the uterus sheds because pregnancy did not happen, and it is a normal and healthy process. Individuals born with a uterus have periods.
During a period, blood comes from the vagina. Blood flow can be light (spotting), medium (change two to four pads a day) or heavier (soaking five or more pads a day) and can last two to seven days.
What to expect with your period
Periods can start between age 9 and 15. An average period comes every 28 days but the time between periods can be 24 to 38 days and still be normal.
Skipping a period, or not having one every month, is common in the first few years of menstruating and is not a concern unless the person is having sex and then a pregnancy test should be done for every missed period.
Keep in mind, periods will NOT come on the same day each month because they can come between 24 and 38 days and months have 28 to 31 days.
Before Your Period
You may experience pimples on your face, bloating, breast soreness, food craving, loose stools, tiredness, and/or feeling sad, anxious, or irritable due to hormonal changes before period.
During Your Period
You will experience vaginal bleeding, usually for two to seven days. The color can be red, brown, or a mix. The pad, tampon, or period panties should be changed about every four hours or sooner if it feels wet or full. Cramping can occur in lower abdomen, legs, or back.
After Your Period
Cramps and bleeding stops, and your mood improves after your period ends.
Resources
Monthly Printable Period Tracker
Need to print a new monthly period tracker? Here you go!
Yearly Printable Period Tracker
Would you prefer a yearly period tracker? Find one here!
Illustrated Period Guide
Prefer a visual explanation of periods? Illustrated booklet coming soon!
Is Boundless Health right for my primary care needs?
While our healthcare providers are specifically trained to serve individuals and families with I/DD or other complex needs, our health center is open to everyone. To learn more, please contact one of our intake counselors today.
