[Nicole Scarlet]

This is my first period ever, so I need some help? I am 14, and had my first period a few days ago. It came in a light brown colour with jelly-like clumps and continued as such that night. The next day this happened again but in a more black/brown colour and it's been continuing to do so frequently like a period. I've been getting cramps too, if that helps with anything. Is this something to be concerned about on a first period ever? Some have told me if it's brown it's old blood, but the black is a little bit of a worry, and there are no signs of infection yet. (no strong odors, fatigue, etc) If you could help, thank you so much!

[CravenMorhead]

Have you talked to your mother about this? It is hard to believe but she's been getting periods and dealing with them for longer than you've been Alive. She'll be your best guide in the next few years. Brown and black is old blood, if you think about it you're starting up a system for the first time, the first period is more of a priming and cleaning out of what was there so that a new lining can grow.

For more information talk to your mother. I know it will be embarrassing and mortifying but trust me that she's gone through this before and will be able to help.

[joypulv]

No signs of infection? No need to worry about that from what you are seeing.
Infections that aren't in STD categories are generally of 2 types: yeast and bacteria.
Yeast is possible in any moist area of the body, and you can do a lot of reading about it if you want. It's from an imbalance in pH. It is common in the vagina and is smelly and looks like cottage cheese.
Bacteria can get into the urinary tract (UTI) for just about any reason, and UTIs are common.
It can also get into tiny cuts in the skin, especially delicate skin around the vulva and vagina, such as from rough sex or masturbating with objects or even fingernail cuts. That's no different from getting through a cut in the skin anywhere in the body.

Try not to worry about old blood, whether dark red, brown, or blackish. Or pink and watery, or clumps of menstrual lining, or the more gluey secretion that is clear when not mixed with blood. All normal and all will vary over the months and years.

As for aches and pains, look into pelvic tilt exercise, heating pads, warm baths, and avoiding heavy foods, caffeine, and getting constipated. Eat a healthy diet, and keep your lower torso and legs WARM in cold weather.

(Ironically, 17 years after menopause, I now have to do pelvic tilts to help my lower back as lower spinal nerves get pinched as I get shorter.)

[AskstephF]

Hi there.
Im in my 30's.
I remember my first period brewing exactly the same way. In fact, I didn't realize it was that until I realized I kept soiling my undies. I told my mother and she confirmed it was my first period.

Don't forget to tell your mom. She should know. Especially if something goes wrong (which won't but you never know)