Female Advice Preferred: Period

[FONT=""][COLOR=""][SIZE=""]Sometimes I'll start my period a few days early or late and I always get so upset about it and I don't know why I feel like this. Does this happen to others?[/size][/color][/font]

[Hiraeth.]

I'm sorry this is causing so much stress for you! It's really important to remember that periods don't run like clockwork. You are not always going to get your period exactly four weeks after it ends. It'll arrive a few days earlier or a few days later. I am not sure what the typical range is but in my opinion anything between 25-31 days is nothing to be alarmed about. There could be other factors affecting your period cycle, such as stress or anxiety. Stress and anxiety has a direct impact on how our body functions, including hormones, which directly affects our period.

If you have any. further questions or concerns, please don't hesitate in reaching out.

[¯|_(ツ)_|¯]

It's definitely normal to sometimes start your period a few days early or late. While some people are lucky enough to get their period at the same time each month, there are tons of people out there who get their period within a certain time frame. Like Butterscotch. said, there are a ton of factors that can affect someone's cycle too.

I used to get my period every two weeks, and that was a more of an issue. Keep track of how often you get your period and exactly how early or late you get it. If it falls into Planned Parenthood said the normal cycle is about every 25-30 days, but it can be shorter or longer. If your cycles fall out of that range often it may be worth talking to a doctor, but if you're in range you should be okay as long as you don't have any other symptoms!

[Moxie.]

Hey there,

This is completely normal! Periods are a funny thing and, while they CAN be consistent, they definitely aren't always. I'm not sure how old you are, but cycles tend to fluctuate even more when we're younger and even out as we get older. As others have said, there are a number of factors that can affect your cycle as well, including exercise habits, stress levels, and general hormone changes if you're actively going through puberty.

It might be helpful to keep track of your cycles, either by writing down your start and end dates or by logging it in a period tracker app. You may also want to make note of recent lifestyle and/or habit changes, as well as stress levels, in the time before each period. Keeping track of your cycle will allow you to see if any patterns emerge, especially as it relates to external factors. It will also help you notice any causes for concern, which you can take to a doctor if necessary.

If you know your period is coming up, it may also be wise to keep period products on hand, such as in your purse or backpack, as that time of the month approaches. While doing so obviously won't impact when it starts, having them on hand wherever you go can help reduce stress, as you won't have to worry about finding a pad or tampon if it happens earlier than anticipated.

Periods are definitely tricky, sometimes irritating things. But, rest assured that what you're experiencing is completely normal!

Take care,
Sam

[Arabesque- golfing girl.]

Hello,

Welcome to Teenhelp, thank you so much for coming on and asking for help with this. I am sorry that you are feeling upset about this and I hope that you will be okay soon. You can get a app on your phone, just download it and it can tell you when you will start for the next month's coming up and if you ever need help, can you try asking a doctor or a parent or a friend? Also, you are always welcome to join us if you ever wanted to and you can talk about this or something else that is on your mind. Next time if you are early or late, try not to be too hard on yourself. I hope you will be okay soon.

[Dawn.]

Hi Lily!
It definitely is normal for periods to be early or late...mine always are!
I also would recommend downloading a menstrual cycle app on your phone and/or tablet to keep track on when your periods are due.
Speaking to your doctor may also help.