Day one of your period - not exactly anyone’s favourite day. Sometimes you see it coming, sometimes it just crashes the party uninvited. If you’ve ever wondered when your period actually starts, here’s the lowdown:  it’s the first day you notice real bleeding (not spotting), which also marks the start of a brand-new cycle. Knowing this helps you track your period, spot patterns, and even predict when cramps or cravings might hit.

What’s Happening in Your Body

So why does day one feel so… intense sometimes? Your hormones are doing a little reset. Oestrogen and progesterone drop, and your uterus starts shedding its lining. That shedding is what we see as bleeding. It’s totally normal, but it can bring along cramps, bloating, mood swings, and a lot of tiredness. Basically, your body’s telling you, “Yep, this is the start of something new.”

Symptoms You Might Notice

Everyone experiences day one differently, but here’s the usual vibe:

• Cramps: Your uterus is contracting to shed its lining. Some people barely notice, some feel like their insides are tied up in knots.
• Bloating: Water retention is common, so your jeans might feel a bit snug.
• Mood swings: Yep, those hormones dipping can make you feel extra emotional or irritable.
• Fatigue: Your body’s working hard, don’t feel guilty for wanting to nap.
• Flow changes: It usually starts light and ramps up.

Not all symptoms hit everyone, but noticing patterns helps you plan for future periods and know what’s normal for you.

Mood Swings on Your Period

Ever feel like you’re a mix of grumpy, sleepy, and snack-obsessed on day one? That’s normal. Those mood swings on your period happen because hormone levels dip right as your cycle starts. Plus, when cramps or bloating show up, it’s easy for emotions to feel extra intense. Pro tip: don’t fight it. Sometimes acknowledging it is the easiest way to manage it.

Tips to Survive Day One

Day one doesn’t have to ruin your whole week. Here are some ways to make it a little easier:

1. Take It Easy: Listen to your body. If you’re tired, nap or just lounge a bit. You’re not being lazy; your body’s working hard.
2. Heat Helps: Heating pads, warm baths, or even a hot water bottle can do wonders for cramps. Instant relief.
3. Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps reduce bloating and fatigue. Herbal teas, like ginger or chamomile, can be soothing too.
4. Move a Little: You don’t have to run a marathon. Light stretches, yoga, or a short walk release endorphins and can help ease cramps.
5. Fuel Up: Iron-rich foods like beans, spinach, or lean meats help with energy. And yes, chocolate counts too, balance is key.
6. Track Your Cycle: Using an app or journal as a menstrual cycle tracker can help you notice patterns. You’ll see if day one is always heavy on cramps, mood swings, or fatigue, and plan accordingly.

When to Check In With Someone

Mild cramps or low energy are normal, but if day one regularly knocks you out of school, work, or daily life, it’s worth chatting with a healthcare provider. Severe pain, unusually heavy flow, or symptoms that feel off can be signs of conditions like endometriosis or fibroids.

Final Thoughts

Day one of your period might feel rough, but it’s also the start of a new cycle, your body’s natural rhythm. Understanding day 1 of periods helps you anticipate symptoms, plan self-care, and feel more in sync with your body.

So next time cramps hit, mood swings show up, or fatigue makes you reach for the couch, remember: it’s normal, you’re not alone, and a few simple hacks can make day one way more manageable.

Love, Libra x

Essity makes no warranties or representations regarding the completeness or accuracy of the information. This information should be used only as a guide and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional, medical or other health professional advice.