"How much blood do I actually lose?"
Usually just a few tablespoons across an entire period, even though it can look like more.
"Why do periods sometimes just stop for a month?"
This is common, especially in the first couple of years, or during stress, illness, or big changes in routine (Chapter 19).
"Can stress really affect my period?"
Yes. Stress hormones can interact with the same signals that regulate your cycle, so high stress can delay or skip a period.
"Is it bad to take pain relief every month?"
Using over-the-counter pain relief as directed, for a few days each month, is generally considered safe for most people. If you find you need it every single day of every cycle, that's worth mentioning to a doctor.
"Will my period ever become predictable?"
For most people, yes, cycles tend to become more regular within a couple of years of the first period, though some natural variation is normal throughout life.
"What if I have more questions this book didn't answer?"
That's completely expected, this book covers the basics, not everything. A parent, school nurse, or doctor is always a good next step for anything more specific.