I had my first period a couple of days ago. At least I think it was my period because I had a red-brown smudge that lasted for a day and a half. The problem is, it lasted for such a short time that I'm not sure if it was my period or not. I am really confused!
- Marisol*

How long a girl's period lasts varies. It's perfectly normal for some girls to have their first period for just 2 or 3 days. Many girls will have a very light flow of blood the first couple of times they get their period, others have more. Lots of girls expect their blood to be bright red during their periods, but it's completely normal for menstrual blood to be brownish.

Changes in how much (or how long) you bleed can happen because your body might make different amounts of hormones from one menstrual cycle to the next. This is often the case when you are just beginning to get periods and your body is still adjusting.

How long your period lasts and how often it comes might change during the first couple of years of menstruation. But some other things can also affect periods, such as nutrition, exercise, and medications. If you're ever concerned about your period, talk to your doctor.

Reviewed by: Julia Brown Lancaster, RN
Date reviewed: January 2013

*Names have been changed to protect user privacy.