What're signs that my 12 year old daughter may be starting her period soon?

Cramping, bloating: Many times, the onset is quite asymptomatic. She may just started to bleed all of a sudden. Don't worry. Educate your daughter about what to look for. Emotional lability may also be a precursor.

Menarche: Menarche usually occurs between ages 11 ; 13 in the us. However for some their period could start as early as age 9 ; for others not until 16. Before you have a period, you will have noticed breast development, pubic hair ; white to yellowish vaginal discharge. Before the first period a girl may feel bloated, develop cramps in legs or abdomen ; feel moody (depressed or anxious).

Sequential event: Puberty can be slow or fast but usually follows a predictable pattern.Girls will show nipple enlargement as a first noted event between 8-13, then 2-3 years later menses will start.Often they will have a light staining of their undies for up to 6 months before they start.