What are some signs that my first period is coming?

Okay so basically, your body gives you little clues that your first period is getting close. It's not like a surprise party, more like a heads-up!

Your body is changing

One of the first things you might notice is your breasts starting to develop. Like, they don't just pop up overnight, but you'll start seeing and feeling little changes. And you'll probably have a growth spurt, which is when you literally shoot up in height. Also, you might start seeing some hair growing in new places, like under your arms and down there.

Discharge is a big one

This is usually one of the clearest signs. You might notice a whitish or yellowish stain in your underwear. It's called vaginal discharge, and it's totally normal. It means your body is getting ready for your period, so don't freak out! It can start a few months or even a year before your actual period arrives, and it's just your body cleaning itself and staying healthy. But if it ever itches or feels sore, smells strong or bad, turns brown, gray or green, or it hurts when you pee, tell a trusted adult.

Your period is unique to you

Everyone's body is different, so some people get all the signs and some get just a few. Most people get their first period between 11 and 14, but it can be anywhere from 9 to 15. If it comes before you turn 9, or hasn't come by 15, tell a trusted adult so a doctor can check. In the days right before it arrives, you might feel a little moody or crampy, too. That's just your hormones doing their thing as everything gets ready. But if you get tummy pain that comes back every month and your period still hasn't come, tell a trusted adult.

If you want to get a general idea of when your first period might arrive, there's a quick quiz you can take on this site: how close is my first period?