It's not likely, but there's always a chance. Ovulation can be unpredictable and so can menstrual cycles.

This is an old one and it’s not true. You can feel free to keep clean and fresh without 'turning on the taps.'

If you feel like exercising, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t. It's actually a great way of controlling PMS and cramps because it increases the supply of oxygen to the muscles.

Unless there is a problem like severe pain or bleeding, you probably don’t need to see a gynaecologist just because you've had your first period. Typically, women should begin those visits when they become sexually active or when they turn 18, whichever comes first. For more detailed information on when to see the gynaecologist, click here

Everyone’s period is different. It's perfectly natural for a period to last anywhere between three to seven days. Your period may be irregular especially when it first begins. If after the first year of having your period, it's typically longer or shorter than a week, you can talk with your doctor about it.

The myth is that females who haven't had sex will find wearing tampons painful. Not true, although levels of comfort depend on the person. For example, some girls prefer to use tampons with plastic applicators because they glide in smoothly. Another concern is that tampons can somehow 'take away your virginity.' Also not true. The only way to lose your virginity is by having sex. Some mums would prefer their daughters wait to use tampons, so if that applies to you, be sure to talk to your mum first before using them.

Pads don’t work in the water. So if you're planning a trip to the pool during your period, wear a tampon. With one, it's absolutely fine to go for a swim (and it's highly unlikely the string will show, so it's unnecessary to wear shorts over your suit). But if tampons aren’t your style, you can still wear a pad in your swimsuit if you stick to sunbathing and stay out of the water.

PMS symptoms are related to the way your body’s hormones change through your monthly cycle. Symptoms can be emotional (like irritability, depression or fatigue, and physical (cramps or headaches). Check out the facts on PMS and get some tips for minimising the very real symptoms of PMS.

It's always a good idea to be open and honest with your daughter. Because girls typically begin menstruation any time between the ages of nine and 16 (for most girls, between 11 and 13), it’s hard as a parent to know when to broach that topic. You should look for signs in your daughter’s development like budding breasts, an increase in perspiration, pimples and underarm hair. These clues can help you to know that she has entered puberty and you should continue (or open) the dialogue. If you don’t talk to her first, she may be scared when she starts bleeding. Check out these conversation starters for teens

She may but, then again, she may not. Girls may feel shy or too embarrassed to discuss their periods with their mothers. Mothers need to let their daughters know that they welcome discussions and questions about intimate subjects. It's important that a daughter feels she can trust her mum with such personal information. Check out these tips for keeping the conversation open with your daughter.