Period Basics | U by Kotex®

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Why is it that when I'm on my period, I'm never hungry or don't feel like eating?

Peer 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...

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Is it okay to have a beauty mark inside of your labia majora above and to the right of my clitoris?

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How Strong is that Period Cramp Anyway?

Simone Giertz explains in a humorous but engaging way.

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How Does A Menstrual Cycle work?

Check out Simone Giertz’s menstruation machine as she helps young women demystify the amazing process their body goes through.

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Can I swim while I am on my period?

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...

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Is it normal to get a bladder infection during your period?

Peer 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...

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Can I take a shower when I have my period?

Peer 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...

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I just got off my period and had sex with my boyfriend. Now, I am bleeding again. What does this mean?

Peer 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...

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How do you know your hymen is broken if you have never gone to the gyno (I'm still a virgin)?

Peer 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...

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Why does my period blood smell sweet this month? What does decidual blood or implantation blood smell like?

Peer 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...

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Is it normal to get dizzy before or during your period?

Peer 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,...

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I have hair on the inside of my vagina, like on the flaps. How do I get it out?

Peer 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....

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I think I have a yeast infection. How do I tell my mom?

Peer 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...

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I have no armpit hair, literally. And I have my period. Is that normal?

Peer 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...

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Is it normal for my legs to ache during my period? I always find it really hard to walk since my legs hurt so much while I'm menstruating!

Peer 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...

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Is it normal to miss a period? (I'm not pregnant!!!)

Peer 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...

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What should I do about cramps at school?

Peer 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...

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My nipples seem strange. If I don't touch them they're normal, but when I do touch them, it gets cold or I'm sexually active, they get scrunched up and weird. It sounds weird and gross, but I want to know what this is and I want it to go away.

Peer 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...

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I am a light-skinned female. Why is my vagina dark?

Peer 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,...

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Do your breasts stop growing when you get your period? Mine are still REALLY small and I got my period last year.

Peer 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,...

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Does having sex delay my period?

Peer 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.

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How to Prepare for Your First Period

Getting 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!

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Is it normal for the vagina to be dry when you're on your period? I couldn't put a tampon in because it was so dry.

Peer 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...

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Can PMS make you pee a lot?

Peer 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...

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Will shaving my bikini area help with odor?

Peer 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...

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Will taking a bath while on your period hurt you?

Peer 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...

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Your First Appointment With The Gynecologist

Many 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...

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Why does my body itch all over during that time of the month?

Peer 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...

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Why does my vagina get itchy everywhere when I'm on my period?

Peer 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...

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Why do my breasts hurt when I'm getting close to my period?

Peer 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...

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Will I grow after my period?

Peer 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...

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Why is my sex drive up during my period?

Peer 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...

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When I stretch my inner labia as far as they will go, I notice small lighter bumps. They do not hurt, and they've been there as long as I can remember. Do these bumps have a name? Does everyone have them?

Peer 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...

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Why do I get flu-like symptoms before my period?

Peer 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...

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Why do I have acne inside my vagina (and I am not sexually active)?

Peer 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...

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Why do I have cramps, heavy discharge, and no period?

Peer 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...

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When I have my period, it feels weird to go pee. Is this normal?

Peer 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...

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When I have my period, it's hard for me to go poop. It hurts and feels like a really bad PMS cramp. Is this normal?

Peer 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...

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When I'm on my period, sometimes my area will get itchy and it will have a noticeable smell. What should I do?

Peer 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...

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What does “pop your cherry” mean? I’ve heard it so many times, but I don’t know what it means.

Peer 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...

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What do I do to stop experiencing strong mood swings during my periods?

Peer 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...

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What do you do about razor burn in the pubic area?

Peer 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...

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What exactly does a cramp feel like? I have had two periods, and my stomach sometimes hurts a little, but I also just have a delicate stomach. Am I having cramps, or is it just too many M&Ms?

Peer 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,...

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What is it called when your period is longer than normal? What are the treatments?

Peer 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...

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Should I experience soreness down there during my period?

Peer 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...

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Top Tips to Beat PMS Cravings

From 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...

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Is there a way to purposely break your hymen with a tampon?

Peer 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...

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Is there any reason why my boobs aren't tender and I'm supposed to start my period in 3 days?

Peer 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...

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Is there any surgery to stop your period forever? What would happen if I did that?

Peer 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...

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Is there something wrong if I get my period every three months?

Peer 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...

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I've thrown up during my last two periods. Is that normal? Will it happen every month?

Peer 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...

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My cramps are so bad that I'm pretty much bedridden, even when I take Pamprin. Is this normal?

Peer 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...

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Is it normal to have bumps like pimples on my nipples?

Peer 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...

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Is it normal to have excessive bloating during your period?

Peer 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...

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Is it normal to have gas when you are on your period?

Peer 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...

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Is it okay to wipe down there with baby wipes when you're on your period?

Peer 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...

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Is it normal for your ovaries to hurt before and during your period?

Peer 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...

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Is it normal to cry more before and during my period?

Peer 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...

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I'm getting green veins on my breast during my period. What does this mean?

Peer 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...

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Is it bad if you play sports when you're on your period? What's better, a pad or a tampon?

Peer 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...

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I started shaving my pubic hair two years ago, and now it's growing further down my legs. Is this normal?

Peer 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...

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Is drinking coffee a bad idea when you are on your period?

Peer 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....

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Is intense back pain during or before your period normal? I get it every time.

Peer 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...

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Is it common to run a fever while menstruating?

Peer 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...

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I donated blood before my periods and now my period is late. I'm not pregnant, and I have PMS as usual but no period. Can you explain why for some woman, periods don't come or get delayed after donating blood?

Peer 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...

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I feel like I cry more easily on my period. I feel like just renting sad movies and bawling my eyes out. Is this bad?

Peer 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...

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I have blood in my discharge. It's not big but little specks. Is this normal?

Peer 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...

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I cramp for a whole week before I get my period, is that normal?

Peer 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...

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I get severe leg (calf, thigh) pain the day before my period starts, throughout the cycle, and for a few days afterwards. This pain is consistent and only goes away if I take Tylenol. Is this normal?

Peer 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.

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How early is too early to have PMS symptoms before your period? How early is normal?

Peer 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...

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How do you control breakouts when you're on your period?

Peer 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...

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How much weight gain is normal on your period?

Peer 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...

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Does anesthesia affect your period?

Peer 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...

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Does masturbating while on your period help with cramps?

Peer 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...

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Embracing Your Period

Starting 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.

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How To Get Out Period Stains

Period stains can be a nightmare, but your favorite pants or panties don’t have to look like a crime scene forever!

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Can you have sex while you are on your period?

Peer 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...

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Can you induce your period by using a heating pad or taking vitamin C? I'm 3 days late and it's driving me crazy!

Peer 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...

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Can you masturbate while you're on your period?

Peer 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...

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After my period I tend to get bacterial vaginosis because the blood messes up my pH. What can I do??

Peer 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,...

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Can a yeast infection cause a missed period?

Peer 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...

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Can getting a Pap smear a few days before your period affect your period when it comes on?

Peer 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...

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Can having a UTI delay your period?

Peer 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'...

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How did you guys tell your mom about your period? How did she react?

Peer 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...

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Am I normal? When I feel the inside of my vagina, the walls are smooth, but in the center, all the way in the back there is a soft squishy lump. It feels like it comes to a point, and there is a slit in it, about a finger tip wide or so.

Peer 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...

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Sometimes when I sit for long time, my vagina goes numb is that normal?

Peer 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...

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What do I do about cuts in my area? Do I put Neosporin on them? What do I do when they hurt/ bleed?

Peer 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...

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Why does it hurt to poop when you are on your period?

Peer 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...

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Why do I keep getting yeast infections right before I get my period?

Peer 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...

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My bf wants to be intimate together even when I am on my period and I just feel so ugly and disgusting. Help?

Peer 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...

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I think my vagina smells kinda good (except when I have my period). Am I the only one?

Peer 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...

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Is it possible to get pregnant from swimming in a pool? How fast is sperm killed by chlorine and other chemicals?

Peer 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...

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Is it normal if I can't see my vaginal hole? I'm a virgin, and I've never used a tampon before. I used a mirror to look at my vagina, but the hole was barely visible.

Peer 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...

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I shaved my vagina and the itching is uncontrollable, what should I do?

Peer 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...

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I know it's not supposed to, but my vagina hurts extremely bad during my period.

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I have a creamy discharge in my underwear sometimes and it kind of smells bad. Is something wrong? Is this a yeast infection?

Peer 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...

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If you're still a virgin and you go to the gynecologist, can the doctor's speculum break your hymen? If so, will it hurt?

Peer 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...

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If you have a yeast infection, is it okay to scratch or does that make it worse?

Peer 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...

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If my vagina feels dry should I put lotion on it or in it?

Peer 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...

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Puberty 101

Puberty 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.

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My First Period Guide

Your 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.

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How can you tell the difference between a broken hymen and a first menstrual cycle?

Peer 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...

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