period problem! please help!?

Question

I'm 12 years old and my period started last November, when I was still 11. It usually comes at the end of the month, and that first one had A LOT of blood, which I've heard is really unusual. And then in December, there was basically nothing, and I've missed all my periods since. I tried to talk to my mom about it, but when I brought up the subject of missing periods, she kind of freaked out, so I told her I only missed February (as if it was a late period), but not January. I've never had any sexual activity, but there has been contact with possibly unclean surfaces (NO, not like that!-- it was an accident!), so I need advice! Also, I've been gaining some weight, and now I'm scared!! I know I'm still growing, so it's normal to be constantly gaining weight, but it's still freaking me out! What's wrong with me? I obviously can't go to some kind of nurst of somthing, and I don't want to have that awkward talk with my mom again. What should I do?!? HELP!!!

Answer 1

Your period will be a bit hit and miss for quite some time after it begins. It may take up to a year for it to become regular some dont worry right now.

When you say unclean surfaces, it would have to be a surface with fresh, live sperm for it to potentially cause you any weight gain! I'd say that was highly unlikely?

Answer 2

Okay, relax. First periods can be different and strange in all ways. Since you have never had sexual activity you are obviously NOT pregnant. What I will say next you should(in my opinion)stick to for the rest of your life: if you are worried or unsure about something that is happening with your body seek professional help. Some women have irregular periods, some are like clock work, since this is your first period it is hard to tell what type you are. This will likely work out as you get older and develope a regular cycle. As for the weight gain, I gain weight when I am stressed out. I am in my mid 20's and I seem to have one heavy cycle followed by one light. Exercise, change in diet, consumption of water, salt or alcohol can all change the intensity of your cycle. Contact with unclean surfaces is a bit vague but could cause urinary tract infections or yeast infections, both are treatable and you would be quite uncomfortable if you had either of these. My advice is to make an appointment with either Planned Parenthood(which is very good about privacy), school nurse, or family doctor. Tell Mom you need a physical for some school thing or something. Then tell the doc about your issue. I grew up with just my Dad and he never told me anything about periods so I know how it feels to be scared and unsure. Get information about important issues such as this from professionals even if it is unfortable or embarrasing. Your body and mind will thank you for it. Don't worry!

Answer 3

It's very very normal to start and then stop for several months at your age. I was 12 when I started my period, 6 months later it stopped and I didn't get another one until I was 14.

I'm not sure what you mean be unclean surface? Was it just dirt? Or was it where someone had been ejaculating? It's not likely that either will harm you from casual touch. If you're really worried, speaking with a school nurse would be a good idea - you can ask for it to be kept confidential. You may also find your closest Planned Parenthood and give them a call - they'll run any tests you need for little cost.

Answer 4

Hi dear, BREATHE! First of all, it IS normal for your period to go all wonky when you first have it. Mine used to come & then disappear for days & then come back.

So, its too bad that your mother can't speak with you either. Do you have a nurse at school? These are common questions that a nurse or even a drop-in centre councellor could assist you with.

Overall, you are going to gain weight as you are 12 & this is still "prime growing" stage. Plus with the start of your period is going to be like a starter to the rest of your hormones so your body is going to become more like a "woman" in that your fat cells for your breats & other areas are going to begin to develop.

Ah I see that you can't go to a nurse, that's too bad. Try the tampax site tampax.com as they have some valid every day information in there that helps. & Maybe ask an aunt? Grandmother? An older cousin even?

I have found (I'm 31 now) that the women who have reg. periods never knew that other women have unregular periods.

Your first period could have been really heavy just due to building up of lining until your body was ready to dispose of it which is what your period is simply.

if you find that you are receiving pain that is too bad to sleep through or focus on your school work. Or if you are having really bad emotional issues during your period OR if you are having a lot of black or brown colored blood--those are areas of concern. btw black or brown blood simply means that for whatever reason, your body doesnt' dispose every month which happens for LOTS of reasons, including puberty & stress!

Perhaps, pick up a book re: women's bodies at the local library? Or even just go there some day & sneak into a corner.

You'll be ok & remember that eating better & moderate exercise helps make you feel better during that time too.

Good luck!

Answer 5

It sounds like your body is trying to adjust to the changes going on right now which is why the periods are irregular. They will straighten themselves out over the next couple years.

But in the mean time keep an eye on the flow, if you are having to change pads every hour then this needs to be evaluated by your dr.

If you have a trusted adult friend or another female family member that you can go to I would suggest also discussing your concerns with them.

Answer 6

i got my period a year ago when i was 11 now im 12 and i miss my period sometimes its not a big deal and some kids gain or lose weight after getting their first period i lost a lot wich made me a little unhealthy but now im just about back to normal as you will be too

Answer 7

It's absolutley normal to skip a few months when you first start your period. Your period will be irregular for a couple years. You may sometimes have two periods a month or not have your period for a whole year. Dont worry its perfectly normal. I dont know why your mom would be freaking out she should know that it is irregular for a few years at first.

Hope I helped!

Answer 8

First of all, I really, really doubt you're pregnant from what you've described, so do not worry about that. If however you have been exposed to potential STDs you do need to get yourself checked for that.

It is quite normal for you to miss several months of your period at this stage. I believe I missed 5 straight months when I was about 13.

However, if your cycle does not regulate itself within another year or so, you should speak with your gyno.

Answer 9

GO SEE A DOCTOR! School nurse, free clinic, ask your mom to take you to the doctor for cramps and then talk. You need to be honest with yourself, mom, and physician.

Answer 10

go to your school nurse, if you are comfortable with it, and tell her your problem. Also I would go to a store and get a prenancy test just to be sure. You can never be to sure.