A lot of times, it can be scary for pre-teens or teens.

It sounds intense, but there’s actually more happening to your body than just some shedding.

While every menstruating woman’s experience may differ, here’s what can happen when you have your period.

woman who had her period and is tracking it

Then the blood and tissue move from your uterus, past the cervix and out of the vagina.

If that’s the case, you’ll want to talk to your OB-GYN.

However, period bleeding in itself is totally normal, and just your body’s way of staying healthy.

a woman who has her period grabbing a pad

In fact, the only reason women even get periods is to prepare their bodies for a possible pregnancy.

Obviously, not everyone wants to get pregnant, but still your period comes for that exact reason.

“The entire menstrual cycle is set up to prepare your body for possible pregnancy.”

a doctor examining a pregnant woman

For some women,period crampsare just small pains they feel every now and then in the lower abdomen.

For others, they can be serious enough to leave you bedridden or worse, in the hospital.

Usually, that’s a sign of a more serious condition like endometriosis, according toMayo Clinic.

a woman experiencing period cramps

Period cramps are triggered by your uterus contracting to assist in the shedding of its lining.

However, if you are concerned, speak with your gynecologist.

You are probably just bloated, a super common symptom of your menstrual cycle starting.

a woman experiencing period bloating

According toHealthline,bloating when you have your period has to do with your hormones.

Additionally, as the lining of your uterus thickens, your bloat might increase.

Bloating isn’t dangerous, but it can be annoying.

a woman experiencing period cravings

But also just remember that it’s totally natural, normal, and nothing to feel ashamed about.

And really, onechocolatebar or scoop ofice creamisn’t going to kill you, so just go for it.

You definitely deserve it when you’re on your period.

a woman experiencing back pain

Still, some pain is harder to manage, and that can be a sign of something bigger.

However, back pain is a pretty common symptom when you have you period, thoughextremeback pain isn’t.

According toMedical News Today,“primary dysmenorrhea,” or pain because of your period,is common.

a woman with acne

When you get your period, it’s common to break out.

As strange as it sounds, it’s true.

Yes, your period can make you clumsy.

period-related items

In fact, you might blame your menstrual cycle.

Those changing levels of hormones can really mess with your emotions, even after your period starts.

And honestly, who could blame them?

a woman experiencing PMS

When your period starts, you may be experiencing pain and feeling pretty uncomfortable.

“When your period comes, your hormones are at their lowest.

You end up with better intensity, higher fatigue resistance, and better recovery,” Sims explained.

a woman working out

Overall, it seems that your voice is your voice.

It’s all normal and happens so often it’s easy to forget about.

But what’s not easy to forget?

a woman having trouble focusing

Your bowel movements during your period.

As it turns out, when you have your period, your bowel movements may change.

So no,you aren’t the only one dealing with those awful “period poops.”

a woman talking on the phone

But don’t worry, because period poos are totally athing.

“The reason that this happens is largely due to hormones,” Staller explained.

tampons and pads

a woman holding her stomach