I think I'm about to start

Okay, so when you feel like your period is about to start, it's probably because your body is giving you some clues! That's totally normal, your body is super smart and usually gives you little hints before the main event.

What it feels like

Your body usually does a bunch of things before your period actually starts. You might notice some brown or reddish discharge in your underwear, which is often a sign that your period is coming really soon. You could also feel some mild cramps, like a little ache in your lower belly, or just generally feel a bit more tired or moody. Your breasts might even feel a little sore or tender.

What to do about it

If you're getting these signs, it's a good idea to be prepared! Make sure you have some pads or period underwear ready to go. You can even wear a pantyliner just in case. If you feel cramps, sometimes a warm bath, a heating pad, or just chilling out on the couch can help. And definitely tell a trusted grown-up what you're feeling, they can help you get everything sorted out.

If you want a fun way to figure out how close you might be, there's a quiz on this site: how close is my first period?