Sometimes there is a spotting of blood between periods. Some women know when they are going to have their periods by the way their bodies feel. Some women keep a record of their periods on a calendar to become more familiar with their cycle. Some girls and women may have physical or emotional discomfort up to two weeks before menstruating. Usually mild, PMS happens in fewer than half of all women.
Women use sanitary pads or tampons to absorb menstrual flow.
Every package has instructions. Tampons and sanitary pads come in different sizes and varieties. Some are for lighter flows. Some are for heavier flows. Pads stay in place by sticking inside the underwear.