Peer Answer: Absolutely! There is no reason to miss out on hitting the beach with friends just because you're on your period. For the longest time I wasn't comfortable with the idea of swimming while I was on my...
Learn MorePeer Answer: Everyone is different when it comes to puberty and development, but the majority of my girlfriends continued to develop well into their teenage years and 20s. And before you go gaga for tatas,...
Learn MorePeer Answer: I guess it depends on what you mean by “weird”! Your hormones are doing so many different things during your period, and this is reflected in your body. All of those things -- from cramps to bleeding...
Learn MorePeer Answer: It’s called annoying! Just kidding. Periods are considered “longer than normal” when they consistently last for more than seven days, or if you have one that lasts nine or more. As for treatments, the...
Learn MoreMany women feel nervous or uncertain before their visit to the gynecologist. It means accepting that your body has changed and that you've taken the step from girlhood into womanhood. Before going to...
Learn MorePeer Answer: Absolutely! You may even want to shower or bathe more often while on your period. I tend to take more baths just to relax and ease cramps. You might notice a little bit of blood dripping out if you...
Learn MorePeer Answer: There are a few different hair removal options. There is trimming, waxing or shaving. There is even doing nothing at all to it. In my opinion, there is no rule to how you should keep your pubic hair....
Learn More 23202394910 9Peer Answer: Sex can definitely affect your period because of all the hormones involved. I would check out what Dr. Molly has to say for this one.
Learn More 232023102612 4Peer Answer: Most women experience a change in their nipples during the occasions you mentioned. The nipples are very sensitive and everything from sexual arousal to something as simple as a cold breeze can cause...
Learn More 22202384812 4Your first period isn’t something you need to hide. This guide is full of useful information and FAQs to help you understand and manage your first period.
Learn More 22202362626 3Peer Answer: Absolutely! You may even want to shower or bathe more often while on your period. I tend to take more baths just to relax and ease cramps. You might notice a little bit of blood dripping out if you...
Learn More 22202362041 149Peer Answer: I guess it depends on what you mean by “weird”! Your hormones are doing so many different things during your period, and this is reflected in your body. All of those things -- from cramps to bleeding...
Learn More 22202361600 833Peer Answer: Personally, I’ve never experienced aching legs during my period, but some poking around on the Internet revealed that it’s a very common symptom of PMS. Beyond that, I’m not much of an expert on the...
Learn More 131202375649 20Peer Answer: There are lots of reasons you can miss your period. Don't freak out, there are more reasons than just being pregnant for a missed period. Have you been going through a lot of stress lately? That can...
Learn More 126202324026 143Peer Answer: There are surgeries that would stop your period, but it’s not something to go into lightly. There are also birth control options that can stop your period for a time. I suggest speaking with your...
Learn More 121202385719 2Peer Answer: You know what? This happens to me too! In my case, I think it’s because I’m still stuffed from devouring massive amounts of lunchmeat the week before (lunchmeat is my PMS crave-of-choice). But this...
Learn More 1212023121141 5Peer Answer: Absolutely! There is no reason to miss out on hitting the beach with friends just because you're on your period. For the longest time I wasn't comfortable with the idea of swimming while I was on my...
Learn More 1202023104250 1026Check out Simone Giertz’s menstruation machine as she helps young women demystify the amazing process their body goes through.
Learn More 120202391031 1Peer Answer: It’s normal to have bumps on your nipples that look like pimples but don’t necessarily feel sore like pimples. Do the bumps you’re describing kind of look like Braille – the reading system for blind...
Learn More 18202365400 22Peer Answer: I’m going to go ahead and say yes, it’s normal. Pubic hair is different for everyone. Some people have lots of it, some have little, and its patterns can be all over the place. Shaving is always an...
Learn More 18202365136 5Peer Answer: When I’m dehydrated, my pee sometimes smells different than it normally does, but I unfortunately don’t have any experience with the smell you’re describing. I’ll defer to our health expert Molly for...
Learn More 18202354159 13Peer Answer: You could probably do it, but there's really no need! Your hymen will break or stretch when it needs to. It might happen naturally the first time you use a tampon or insert anything else into your...
Learn More 13202390851 119Peer Answer: Take a look for yourself — like any other part of your body, you’re allowed to look at it! (You might need a hand mirror.) The hymen is located just about a half-inch inside the vagina. It’s a thin...
Learn More 13202313643 33Peer Answer: The term “pop your cherry” is slang for the breaking of the hymen. The hymen is about a half-inch inside the vagina and can be broken with penetration or even if you’re just very active. Some girls...
Learn More 1227202294324 33Peer Answer: Having nicked myself when shaving (more than a few times), I know having a cut down there is absolutely no fun! To treat cuts caused by shaving, I keep the area clean by washing twice a day, and to...
Learn More 1226202245127 28Peer Answer: I can never trust the last day or two of my period. I hate it when I think my period’s over and I go without a tampon, only to find out later that my period wasn’t actually over – another pair of...
Learn More 1222202254520 4Peer Answer: Sometimes I can get a little nauseous right before my period too. Are there other changes in your cycle? Or is there a possibility you could be pregnant? These are all things to consider. But...
Learn More 12192022122840 137Peer Answer: I read this question and just wanted to scream, "Woo, you go, girl!" A lot of people aren't big fans of their own smells, but I think it's fab that you are. In some ways, vaginas had to be designed to...
Learn More 127202212639 14Peer Answer: Good for you for exploring your body! The vagina has a lot of different parts and everyone’s feels and looks slightly different. I don’t know for sure what you are touching as there are a few parts of...
Learn More 122202232120 118Peer Answer: Great question. It's possible that these are Fordyce Spots, which are superficial sebaceous (AKA oil producing) glands. They can appear on the labia, penis, and mouth. They are perfectly normal and...
Learn More 11272022113109 9Peer Answer: I have never experienced this before! It seemed unlikely to me that losing a little bit of the blood pumping around in your body could affect your uterine lining, which is a little different. But...
Learn More 1110202271518 11Peer Answer: I’m really not sure! See what our health expert, Dr. Molly has to say about this and if the leg cramps continue, see your healthcare provider.
Learn More 1028202284243 3Getting your first period can be exciting, nerve-wracking and confusing all at once. No matter which combination of emotions you’re feeling, there’s no need to worry!
Learn More 926202272158 0Okay so there are a few things that we all want to know when it comes to our bodies and how they change, but let’s face it, the conversations can get a little awkward. Which is where the...
Learn More 32202281119 0OB/GYN Dr. Staci Tanouye shares her tips on when to know your period is coming and how to stay prepared.
Learn More 10182021110013 0Simone Giertz explains in a humorous but engaging way.
Learn More 8182021105238 0Peer Answer: I haven’t run into the issue of peeing more than normal when I have PMS. Unfortunately, I have experienced the symptoms of a bladder infection. I’m not sure whether or not your peeing a lot is related...
Learn More 69202131651 52Peer Answer: Washing thoroughly with mild soap and water should be just fine. Shaving your bikini area is a personal choice, there are no medical reasons why you should or shouldn't, but I don't think it has...
Learn More 69202131647 9Peer Answer: Not at all! I usually find it feels better. I lovelovelove hot showers or baths as it is, but I feel that when I’m on my period and might have cramps, it is actually very soothing to me. I say get a...
Learn More 69202131647 3Many women feel nervous or uncertain before their visit to the gynecologist. It means accepting that your body has changed and that you've taken the step from girlhood into womanhood. Before going to...
Learn More 69202131647 156Peer Answer: All women have big changes in their hormone levels when they have their period. Sometimes these abrupt changes trigger a release of histamine, which can cause itching. It is not fun! Some women soon...
Learn More 69202131646 12Peer Answer: Us chicks sure like to multitask! So much so that even our bodies seem to have a lot going on all at once! There aren’t many girls who haven’t been itchy down there at one time or another and there...
Learn More 69202131646 5Peer Answer: Ugh, PMS! It’s just not fair. My breasts always hurt when I’m about to get my period, along with my lower back. I also get crazy massive cravings for sugary or salty things. Oh and don’t forget the...
Learn More 69202131646 11Peer Answer: It’s hard to say whether or not you’ll grow after your period. It’s likely, but definitely not a sure thing. There are some girls who continue to grow and there are others who don’t. Believe me, it...
Learn More 69202131646 112Peer Answer: I’ll be honest: As many times as it’s been explained to me, I still don’t have the science behind period-related hormonal changes nailed down quite yet. But what I do know is that hormones change...
Learn More 69202131646 4Peer Answer: What exactly are flu-like symptoms? I should probably know this because whenever I’m suffering from something worse than a cold, I’m quick to say I have the flu. WebMD says flu symptoms include a high...
Learn More 69202131645 17Peer Answer: Your vagina is a sensitive area! Sexually active or not, sores, bumps or rashes on the inside of your vagina should be looked at by a healthcare professional. I’m sure it’s more than a little...
Learn More 69202131645 125Peer Answer: It may be that you’re ramping up for your period. Cramps and heavy discharge come prior to your period -- think of them as the warning letting you know to “brace yourself” and maybe save the white...
Learn More 69202131645 122Peer Answer: Short answer? Yes. Long answer? Let's take a closer look at what could be aggravating the problem. Aside from period interference, constipation can also be caused by lack of fiber in your diet. Being...
Learn More 69202131645 11Peer Answer: First of all, don't fret. Some of us smell a little bit different when we're on our periods (including me!), but it's not necessarily a bad smell. In terms of what you should do, I say do whatever...
Learn More 69202131645 1Peer Answer: Unfortunately, and to my utter dismay, there isn’t an off switch for our mood swings, but there are ways to cope with them. I know it seems so useless for me to provide coping methods, but at least...
Learn More 69202131644 5Peer Answer: My best advice is to prevent razor burn in the first place. Shaving can be a tricky thing, especially if you are prone to razor burn like me. I have super sensitive skin so if I’m not very careful, it...
Learn More 69202131644 2Peer Answer: Always be prepared! If your period is regular, you should kind of have an idea of when it’s going to start every month. What I would do is always have pad or tampon in my backpack or purse if I knew I...
Learn More 69202131644 19Peer Answer: Cramps are similar to stomach aches – it’s sort of this soreness and uncomfortable feeling that has you hunching over and holding your stomach in hopes that it’ll feel better. But unlike stomachaches,...
Learn More 69202131644 27Peer Answer: It’s called annoying! Just kidding. Periods are considered “longer than normal” when they consistently last for more than seven days, or if you have one that lasts nine or more. As for treatments, the...
Learn More 69202131644 290Peer Answer: Does it feel like someone punched you in your vagina? Yes? Then, yep, that’s what happens to me too. Those are my least favorite days while on my period because not only am I sore, but out of either...
Learn More 69202131643 5From chocolatey treats to salty snacks, many women experience intense cravings and ravenous appetites a week or two before their periods. Experts have their theories on what causes these monthly...
Learn More 69202131643 0Peer Answer: I think everyone’s symptoms are different when it comes to their periods. My breasts don’t get very tender but I have some serious bloat happening when I’m going to get my period. I used to just get...
Learn More 69202131642 1Peer Answer: A lot of girls have irregular periods. I’m not even sure if there’s such thing as a regular period. If there is, I think I’m missing out on it too. Just to cover all bases, a certain type of birth...
Learn More 69202131642 6Peer Answer: Sounds normal to me, especially because I’m also someone who gets cramps so bad that I can’t get out of bed. Some girls and women experience worse cramps than others – I have a couple of girlfriends...
Learn More 69202131642 10Peer Answer: The Real Answers team answered a question previously that I think addresses yours really well. Basically, our health experts said that any type of cramps can cause lightheadedness. So can anemia,...
Learn More 69202131641 8Peer Answer: I think it depends on what you mean by excessive. There is definitely some bloating and weight gain going on when you’re getting your period. My clothes definitely don’t fit as well as they should and...
Learn More 69202131641 2Peer Answer: I’m not sure what it is about our periods that causes gas, but I know that it does. Get ready for “TMI” -- I also suffer from an abnormal amount of gas when I’m on my period. It’s like, “Isn’t it bad...
Learn More 69202131641 6Peer Answer: Before I start my period each month, I stock up on wet wipes (same as baby wipes, just without the baby smell). When I’m on my period, all I really want to use are wet wipes – I know they’ll do the...
Learn More 69202131641 19Peer Answer: I’m not really sure if that is normal to be honest because I’ve never had it happen to me personally. But I think you should check out health expert Sandy’s answer to this one. If it continues to...
Learn More 69202131640 7Peer Answer: Um, absolutely! I've definitely been known to cry before, during, and on occasion, even after my period (I'm a crier, what can I say?). I know the extra emotion has something to do with your hormones...
Learn More 69202131640 2Peer Answer: I wouldn’t say it’s normal but it definitely can happen. Bacteria cause bladder infections so when you have your period, make sure you’re changing your tampon or pad regularly. UTIs are painful and...
Learn More 69202131640 2Peer Answer: This is normal, and at the same time, ridiculously inconvenient and uncomfortable. It really peeves me when I try to put a tampon in, but can’t. Doesn’t it seem ridiculous to be on your period and...
Learn More 69202131640 1Peer Answer: I have to admit that I was excited to see this question. I was one of those odd children that instead of asking, “Why is the sky blue?” I asked things like, “Why are my veins blue?” Let me start by...
Learn More 69202131639 5Peer Answer: It's totally not bad! Actually, it can be really good, for both you and your cramps. See for more info on exercising during your period. In terms of the old pad or tampon debate, the answer is always...
Learn More 69202131639 6Peer Answer: As far as I know, drinking coffee does't have any negative affects on your period. Some period-related medications even have caffeine added to them to help fight fatigue and to help reduce bloating....
Learn More 69202131639 7Peer Answer: I usually don't get back pain before or during my period, but some of my friends definitely do. So I'm pretty sure it's totally normal! I think the way to ease period-related back pain is similar to...
Learn More 69202131639 18Peer Answer: I’ve never experienced this myself. However, I do know that a fever may be a sign of infection, so it’s probably not a bad idea to give your health provider a call or schedule an appointment. Our...
Learn More 69202131639 6Peer Answer: Getting a yeast infection doesn’t mean you were doing something bad, so you shouldn’t be ashamed to tell your mom. It could be caused by a lot of different things. I’m big on open communication so I...
Learn More 69202131639 22Peer Answer: Sounds like PMS to me. I get a little overemotional around my period too. I just go with it because every now and then I just need a good cry. Sometimes my body knows just what I need even if it does...
Learn More 69202131638 3Peer Answer: If you’re new to having your period, this spotting may just be a minor inconvenience while your body determines its regular cycle. As a menstruation newbie, your hormones are constantly in flux, so...
Learn More 69202131638 5Peer Answer: It doesn’t sound too unusual, but see what Sandy, our health expert, has to say. I definitely suggest taking care of yourself by doing things that relax you! Heating pads or hot baths also work...
Learn More 69202131638 10Peer Answer: As we like to say on this panel, when it comes to periods, nothing is ever “normal.” And that, of course, includes our good pal PMS. My PMS starts about five days prior to my period’s start and the...
Learn More 69202131637 5Peer Answer: It’s the most frustrating thing having to deal with break-outs for one week of every month. Right when you get your face looking perfect, a couple of pimples start to pop up and then, BAM, your period...
Learn More 69202131637 13Peer Answer: The number on the scale might go up – and it definitely goes up for me – but from my understanding, it's not actual weight gain. It's mostly just bloating from excess water weight. Yes, those extra...
Learn More 69202131637 3Peer Answer: I’m going to say those words that everyone hates to hear, or well, read -- everyone is different and unique. Don’t compare yourself to others. There is no perfect vagina or a specific color or shape,...
Learn More 69202131637 4Peer Answer: Luckily, I’ve never had the need for anesthesia, but I do know that stress on the body (exercise, diet, surgery, etc.) can cause irregularities in your period. This is a very interesting question and...
Learn More 69202131636 1Peer Answer: This is a good question; one I wish I knew the answer to. Seems like masturbating would be a quick-fix solution for cramps. Maybe it could be your way of helping reduce the pain from cramps. For me, I...
Learn More 69202131636 17Starting your period means going through a phase of physical and emotional adjustment. The more you know about periods and how to manage them, the easier it becomes to embrace them.
Learn More 69202131636 114Period stains can be a nightmare, but your favorite pants or panties don’t have to look like a crime scene forever!
Learn More 69202131636 25Peer Answer: Great question. Although it will be messy (and may cause a small crime scene on your sheets) you most definitely can have sex during your period. It can even help with cramps and improve the period...
Learn More 69202131635 103Peer Answer: As far as I know, there's no guaranteed way to induce your period. But you'll have to read what health expert Dr. Molly has to say to find out for sure. I've definitely been two or three days late...
Learn More 69202131635 4Peer Answer: You’ve gotta love our hormones! They cause our periods and then can make us feel a little frisky (sometimes at the same time). I don’t see how masturbation could be harmful during your period. I’ve...
Learn More 69202131635 13Peer Answer: Everyone is different when it comes to puberty and development, but the majority of my girlfriends continued to develop well into their teenage years and 20s. And before you go gaga for tatas,...
Learn More 69202131635 940Peer Answer: While bacterial vaginosis (BV) is not uncommon, I’ve never had an experience with it. But I wanted to give you some sort of direction to finding an answer so I did a little research for you. First,...
Learn More 69202131634 5Peer Answer: Aside from yeast infections just making me feel “ick,” I can’t say that they have ever affected my cycle. But I know everyone is different, so I can’t say it would be the same for me as it might be...
Learn More 69202131634 5Peer Answer: I’ve had quite a few Pap smears, all at different points in my cycle. Though, I prefer to plan ahead and schedule my appointments after my period is done. I’m honestly not sure how or even if it might...
Learn More 69202131634 1Peer Answer: I totally feel for you -- Bladder infections are no fun! I've never had a bladder infection delay my period, but that doesn't mean it couldn't be the cause. It may be a good time to grab a big ol'...
Learn More 69202131634 5Peer Answer: I fretted telling my mom about my period. Even though my mom told me to not be embarrassed by my period, I was timid in telling her I had started mine. I didn’t know what to think about having started...
Learn More 35202180339 15Peer Answer: Sitting for a long time can cause your body to do strange things! (As you well know if you've ever had your foot fall asleep on you.) I've never heard of a vagina going numb from sitting too long, so...
Learn More 35202165847 48Peer Answer: A lot of my friends experience constipation during their periods, and I’ve read that this is fairly common. So that’s most likely your issue. You may want to try increasing your fiber intake for some...
Learn More 35202163835 6Peer Answer: Yeast infections may be a bit more common around the time of your period. I’m pretty sure it has to do with the fluctuations of hormones that lead to the overgrowth of yeast. I think our health...
Learn More 35202163127 18Peer Answer: I totally understand. When I'm on my period, I don't exactly feel my sexiest. I'm crampy, usually breaking out, and sometimes cranky. But we both should feel sexy! Because as corny as it sounds, what...
Learn More 35202154709 9Peer Answer: Well when you consider the size of a sperm and the size of a swimming pool — talk about a little fish in a big pond. If you’re just worrying about going swimming and you aren’t the one engaged in...
Learn More 35202153613 10Peer Answer: Props to you for getting out a mirror and checking yourself out! I’m not an anatomy expert, so it’s hard to answer your question with certainty. I do know that sometimes it can be hard to see...
Learn More 35202152448 17Peer Answer: Ouch! Sounds like razor burn to me. Razor burn is the worst -- especially on the bikini area. I have super sensitive skin and shaving always irritates it, but I have learned a couple tricks that I’ll...
Learn More 35202151939 11Peer Answer: Although when it comes to menstruation, nothing is “normal” this is really common. There’s no set of “period rules” that say first armpit hair then period, or vice versa. And in some cases women grow...
Learn More 35202145325 4Peer Answer: This could just be your body's natural secretions, so if you're bothered by the smell, just make sure to keep your vaginal area clean (soap and water is fine!). If the odor is different than your...
Learn More 35202141040 15Peer Answer: You’d be surprised how little or even how much impact it could take to break your hymen. The thickness or thinness of the tissue varies from girl to girl. If it’s thin enough, it’s possible to have it...
Learn More 35202140540 10Peer Answer: I haven’t had to deal with a yeast infection (knock on wood). This baffled my girlfriends who were all gushing about yeast infections and vaginal issues the other night. So when it comes to yeast...
Learn More 35202135008 7Peer Answer: In my opinion, it really depends on the kind of lotion you plan on using. I have sensitive skin, so I stay away from anything with perfume, glitter (yes, I said glitter!), color, etc. I strongly...
Learn More 35202134043 3Puberty is something everyone goes through. The Puberty 101 guide provides useful information to help you understand the changes your body is going through as you become an adult.
Learn More 1224202073939 0Peer Answer: The hymen is a very thin tissue that stretches across the opening of the vagina and if broken, the bleeding will often be minimal and usually bright red in color. In comparison, the blood from your...
Learn More 53201831228 8This is not intended to be medical advice. Everybody is different so please make sure to consult your physician if you're having issues. Do not delay or refrain from seeking professional medical advice from your physician because of something you have read on this site.
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