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.
*Names have been changed to protect user privacy.
Date reviewed: November 2015