If your teen has already started puberty — or reached an age where they're ready to start — you might be wondering when their first period will arrive. Having a period signifies the beginning of reproductive life, and many see it as an entryway into adulthood. Some people even hold first period parties to celebrate it!
While everybody is different and nobody really knows exactly when they will get their first period, there are a few ways to tell if your teen or tween might be getting it soon. Scroll down to take the Kt by Knix first period quiz (it's chock full of great information you won't find in other online period quizzes!) to figure out whether or not their first period is officially on its way. If they're open to it, take the quiz with them for best results!
The best way to prevent first period leaks? Kt's period underwear for teens hold 3 to 12 tampons worth of blood..and feel just like normal undies! Lifesavers.
Who is this first period quiz for?
The quiz is for parents of girls and AFAB people who are at the early stages of puberty, have not yet started their menstrual cycle, and are curious about what their first cycle will be like. The first period quiz is meant for fun, to predict the timing of when a person might get their first period. It may or may not be accurate.
Disclaimer: The blog writers at Kt are not medical professionals, and give this advice based on their own research and experience. If you have further questions or concerns, speak to a trusted doctor or medical professional.
First Period Quiz
What is your child's age?
A) 9 and under
B) 10-12
C) 13+
What's the average age for a first menstrual cycle?
The average age for a person to have their first menstrual cycle is 12.5. Most people tend to get their first period between the ages of 9 and 15.
Have their breasts started to develop?
A) Not yet
B) Sort of?
C) Yes
More about breast development
The beginning of breast development is a sign that a menstrual period is on its way. Typically the first period will occur two years after the first signs of breast development have arrived.
Do they experience vaginal discharge?
A) No, what’s that?
B) Once in a while
C) Yes, it’s usually white or clear and sticky
What is vaginal discharge?
Vaginal discharge is a combination of bacteria and cells that slough off from the outer vaginal layer and mix with mucus and fluid produced by the cervix, vaginal lining, and glands at the opening of the vagina. Typical vaginal discharge is white or clear. Most people start to notice discharge happening 6-12 months before getting a period.
Do they have any pubic hair or armpit hair?
A) Nope, not at all.
B) There are a few straggly hairs.
C) Yes, there's no denying their presence.
The lowdown on body hair
During puberty, you will begin to sprout thick, course hairs around your pubic area and your armpits. This usually happens after breast development has already begun, but in some cases it can be the first sign of puberty.
Have they recently had a growth spurt?
A) No
B) It’s starting to happen.
C) Yes, they resemble a weed.
What is a growth spurt?
A growth spurt is when your child hits their stride and the hormones in their body decide it’s time to multiply in order to get you closer to their final adult height with super speed. If they've shot up a few inches in thigh recently, it’s a sure sign that their menstrual cycle should be on its way.
Do they have any pimples?
A) Thankfully, no.
B) Yes, a few spots here and there.
C) Their acne is is becoming a major topic of conversation.
Acne during puberty
Once puberty hits, they may notice a few changes to the biggest organ in their body: the skin. While they might not become a zit factory overnight, they may start to notice a layer of oil forming over top of their skin overnight. And even if they do become a zit factory, who cares? Like Justin Bieber says, pimples are cool.
Do they experience mood swings?
A) Not usually?
B) I do find they're having more ups and downs.
C) Yes, they're struggling with more intense emotional spikes lately.
Puberty, hormones, and emotions
Puberty can wreak havoc on a person’s emotions and leave them feeling confused about what they’re feeling. If they're experiencing more ups and downs than usual, it may be a sign that their body is beginning to flood with hormones and puberty is well underway. Strong emotions are a normal part of growing up, but if they ever feel unmanageable, they should speak to a trusted adult or medical professional who can get them the help they need.
Results
Mostly As
There’s a long way to go. They might be the right age but their body is working on its own schedule and hasn’t started to show signs that they've entered puberty just yet. Be patient. There’s a lot for them to be excited for. Once they start to experience breast development or hair growth, they will be further along on the journey towards getting their period.
Mostly Bs
Too soon to tell. While they've certainly started to manifest several of the telltale signs of puberty, they may need to experience a few more before their menstruation journey begins. Try taking this first period test again in six months - some of their answers may change!
Mostly Cs
Any day now! The magical, mysterious process of puberty is already well underway in their body, which means it’s almost ready for the final frontier: menstruation. Make sure they're prepared to get their first period by learning the basics like how to use a tampon or a pad. They may want to start wearing period underwear for teens to avoid leaks, especially if their period comes at an awkward time. You can help them prepare a first period kit so they're extra ready for what's to come, even when they're on the go. First period blood is often brown and murky so let them know not to necessarily expect a smear of bright red in their underwear.
We hope you enjoyed taking the Kt by Knix first period quiz. We know you and your teen probably still have lots of questions, which is why we made our free period guide to help you both out. Download to learn everything you need to know about periods and puberty!
