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When a girl hits a certain point in her life she begins a process called menstruation. Menstruation is a process the body undergoes every month in order for females to reproduce, or get pregnant. Menstruation is a small subsection of a bigger process called the menstrual cycle. An average cycle is 28 days, but can vary a lot depending on the person. It can vary as much as 12 days or more each way. Menstruation is the part of the menstrual cycle in which vaginal bleeding occurs. This bleeding is sometimes referred to as a period. Periods usually last between 3-7 days depending on the woman. When vaginal bleeding occurs the uterine lining is shed, exits the cervix, and flows out of the vagina. Menstruation is an important part in women's lives because it enables women to have children. There are a few different ways to manage menstrual flow. The most common way is by using sanitary napkins, or pads. One side sticks to the inside of your underwear, and the other side is used for absorbment of flow. Another method used to control menstrual flow is the tampon. This is a small cotton (sometimes cotton/rayon) device that is inserted completely into the vagina, with a string attached for removal. Tampons have a recommended wear time of 4-8 hours. When using tampons, something to look out for is Toxic Shock Syndrome. It is an uncommon disease caused by bacterial toxin, but can be fatal. Following the correct steps in tampon use and knowing the warning signs is crucial for avoiding TSS.

Breast exams
Step 1: Stand up and place one hand behind your head. Hold the fingers of the other hand flat. Gently touch every part of the breast below the raised arm. Feel for lumps, bumps, or thickening. Now do the other breast.

Step 2: Stand in front of the mirror. Place your hands on your hips. Inspect each breast for changes in size, shape and form. Do it again with your arms raised above your head

Step 3: Lie back with a pillow or folded towel under your right shoulder. Place your right hand behind your head. Examine every part of your breast with the fingers of the left hand held flat. Gently press in small circles. Start at the top outermost edge and spiral in to the nipple. Feel for lumps, bumps, and thickening. Now do the other breast. Be sure to follow a consistent pattern. You may want to use one of 3 patterns.
Pattern 1: The line method in which you do upward and downward lines on the breast. Do one upward than one downward. Repeat. Do not miss any part of the breast.
Pattern 2: The wedge method is when you work inward or outward on the breast in slices or sections. Do not miss any part of the breast.
Pattern 3: The circle method is when you work in a circular motion starting on the outside making a large circle and then getting smaller in size of circle as you reach the nipple. Do not miss any part of the breast.

Step 4: Rest your arm on a firm surface like the top of a counter. Examine the underarm. Feel for lumps, bumps, or thickening in the same way. Now do the other underarm.All steps and patterns where provided by the Human Sexuality book Sixth Edition.

Genital Exams
There are really no explicit directions to doing a genital examine. One thing that is important is to always wash your hands before you begin. Once you have done this lie down in a place that is comfortable to you with a mirror and good light. You look in the mirror at your reflection as you examine the many parts of genital area. It is good to know that every woman has different colors or shades of skin in their own genital region. Get to know the external and internal parts of your genitals. There is an instrument you can obtain from woman's clinic. And sometimes a flashlight is also necessary. Also be aware of your vaginal discharge. Again variation is found from woman to woman. If you have any concerns or question ask your doctor to explain them so you can become aware of changes on your genitals. Be safe and know your body in the end it can save your life or help you catch infections or diseases early.