Puberty and Menstrual Health: A Guide for Teens

Puberty and Menstrual Health: A Guide for Teens

Puberty is a transformative period in anyone's life. During this phase, physical and emotional changes in a girl's body are evident. Central to this transformative journey is the menstrual health of these women. 

Understanding these physical changes is important for personal development and good health. It will help promote self-awareness and make informed reproductive Health and personal hygiene decisions.

In this blog, an experienced gynaecologist in Jaipur, Dr. Pankhuri Gautam, shared her insights regarding puberty and menstrual Health.

What is Puberty?

Puberty is the time when a child's body begins to develop. It is the time when the transition to adulthood takes place. This does not happen all at once but slowly over time. During puberty, many hormonal changes occur, such as the production of sex hormones- oestrogen in females and testosterone in males.

Physical changes such as the development of breasts in girls, rapid growth in height, and the beginning of periods typically after two years of development of breasts also take place. 

In boys, physical changes such as - Penis and testes enlarged, the development of pubic hair, and rapid growth of height take place.

As said earlier, it is not only physical changes but also emotional changes that take place. Some of the most basic emotional changes that both boys and girls go through are-

• Mood swings, including irritability, tearfulness, anger, overwhelming happiness or confusion.
• Intense emotions of love, low self-esteem, frustration and apathy.
• They may become argumentative and challenge authority or rules.
• May be physically attracted to others.
• Friends become more important.

What is Menstrual Health?

Menstrual Health refers to the overall well-being of a woman's health during her menstrual cycle. It includes her mental, physical and social well-being. Menstruation is commonly known as periods, and it refers to women shedding blood for a week every month from their uterus lining through the vagina.

Components of Menstrual Health:

Menstrual health is not just about physical well-being during periods; it is more than that. 

Physical Aspect-

• Proper products, such as tampons, sanitary pads, and menstrual cups, should be used during periods to manage blood flow.
• If you are going through severe menstrual cramps, address it by taking proper medications.

Mental Aspect-

• By managing and realising mood swings which happen during menstruation. Some women get very irritated and are stressed during periods, so managing stress by doing basic meditation helps!

Social Aspect-

• Simply talking about what you feel and reducing the stigma attached to menstruation can help reduce the spread of misinformation in society.
• This can be done by talking to your family, parents, friends, etc.

Menstrual Cycle 

The menstrual cycle has 4 phases-

 

 PHASE 1- MENSTRUAL PHASE

• This is the phase where women go through periods: she is shedding blood from her uterine lining. 
• It happens once a month, usually every 28 to 30 days for 3 to 7 days.

PHASE 2- FOLLICULAR PHASE

• The follicular phase is the most extended phase of the menstrual cycle. 
• It begins on the first day when a woman starts bleeding and lasts for about 14- 20 days until ovulation happens.

PHASE 3 - OVULATION

• This is the time when a mature egg is released from the ovaries.
• Primary signs of women ovulating include- mild lower abdomen pain, thin discharge, etc.
• If someone wishes to get pregnant, ovulation is the time when women can try to get pregnant.

PHASE 4 - LUTEAL PHASE

• This phase begins after ovulation and lasts till the time menstruation takes place.
• If fertilisation occurs, pregnancy starts. If it doesn't, it marks the onset of another cycle.

How are Puberty and Menstrual Health Linked? 

Puberty and Menstruation are interconnected. It is only when the very period (Menarche) happens - it is the first sign of getting close to the end of puberty.

As discussed, a girl's body undergoes hormonal and physical changes during puberty. These stimulate the development of secondary sexual characteristics—i.e., the reproductive system—and result in the beginning of the menstrual cycle.

Menarche (the first menstrual cycle) usually happens between 9 and 16. Things you can expect during your first periods-

• Light bleeding
• Mood swings
• Cramps

Some of the  Common Concerns and misconceptions regarding puberty and menstrual Health includes-

• Irregular periods - During the first few years of menarche, irregular periods are common. It takes time for hormones to regulate.
• Pain and discomfort - Cramps and pain in the lower body are very common. Usually, it is bearable; if you experience excess pain in your body, you can consult a doctor who can prescribe a basic medicine.
• Hygiene Products - Choose the products wisely- they can be tampons, pads, or menstrual cups. Ensuring you are comfortable using and changing it consistently can help maintain basic hygiene.

Managing Menstrual Health During Puberty 

Managing menstrual Health is extremely important. Not being done properly can lead to infection and other medical issues. Some of the essential tips to maintain hygiene during menstruation includes-

• Regular changing of the pads. It is advised to change the pads or tampons after every 4 hours.
• Cleaning your genital area with water or intimate hygiene products is essential.
• Avoid using any scented products on your genitals.
• Discard used disposable menstrual products properly.
• Wear lightweight, breathable clothing (such as cotton underwear). Tight fabrics can trap moisture and heat, allowing germs to grow.

Some of the ways to handle common menstrual symptoms-

• Many women experience menstrual cramping. To manage that pain, a heating pad or hot water bottle can be applied to the lower abdomen to provide soothing relief from cramps.
• Some women also experience bloating during periods. To avoid or help reduce bloating, try hydrating yourself with water or herbal teas.
• Headaches are widespread during menstruation. To cope with them, you can either use medicine or try to stay hydrated, as dehydration will only worsen your situation.

When menstrual symptoms are typical, they can easily be treated with the abovementioned tips, but in some cases, it is advised to seek professional help. Some of the signs which require doctors' attention include-

• Excess bleeding and clotting during periods.
• Irregular periods consistently.
• Intense pain which doesn't go away even with the pain killers requires doctors' help.

Conclusion

Managing menstrual Health during puberty includes good hygiene practices and knowing when to seek help. Puberty and menstrual Health are interconnected. The sooner you understand puberty and learn about menstrual Health, the better. You can help yourself and others by understanding the symptoms and managing techniques. 
Following the basic guidelines stated above, you can ensure comfort during periods. My advice can address specific concerns and promote a positive and informed approach to menstrual Health. You can schedule an appointment to learn more about menstrual health.