Translation guide
The first menstrual period, a key biological event. In Japanese, this is most commonly expressed with the medical/formal term 初潮 (しょちょう) or the more everyday 初経 (しょけい).
Referring to the first occurrence of menstruation in a person's life, in a neutral or clinical context.
The most standard and widely understood term for 'first menstruation'. Used in medical contexts, health education, and everyday conversation.
初潮はいつ来ましたか。
When did you get your first period?
初潮を迎える平均年齢は12歳です。
The average age for first menstruation is 12 years old.
A slightly more clinical or formal term than 初潮, but also common. Often used in medical records or formal writing.
初経年齢を記入してください。
Please fill in your age at first menstruation.
A plain, everyday phrase meaning 'first period'. 生理 is the common word for menstruation. Suitable for casual conversation.
最初の生理が来たのは中学一年の時です。
I got my first period when I was in seventh grade.
Another natural way to say 'first period', emphasizing the experience. Very common in personal narratives.
初めての生理の時、お母さんがお祝いしてくれた。
When I had my first period, my mom celebrated it for me.