The transition into puberty and a person’s first period (menarche) is a natural biological milestone often shared through "period stories" that mix science with personal experience.
Just before or during a period, individuals may experience symptoms like . Experts recommend: Menstruation | Period - MedlinePlus playing period
The physical process begins with the at the base of the brain. Around the ages of 11 to 17, this gland sends hormones to the ovaries, signaling them to mature an egg and the uterus to build up a thickened, velvety lining of blood and fluid. The transition into puberty and a person’s first
: The cycle is divided into four stages: menstruation, the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase. Personal Narrative: "The First Time" Around the ages of 11 to 17, this
: A typical cycle lasts about 28 days , with bleeding usually lasting between 3 and 7 days .