first period can be overwhelming for her. While it’s a natural part of growing up, it can also be quite daunting, especially if she is not prepared for it. As parents, talking to your daughter about periods can be awkward and uncomfortable, but it’s also super important!
Although it would be a new and confusing experience for both you and your daughter, it would be even more so for her if she does not know what is happening to her body. So, here are some tips to guide you through this important conversation.
Your daughter would undoubtedly have some questions about the basics of menstruation. Give her as much information as you can without overwhelming her. Here are some things you can cover.
You can begin by explaining to your daughter what a period is. A girl’s first period, known as “Menarche”, marks the beginning of menstruation. It is a natural process where the lining of the uterus sheds through the vagina. It happens once a month for about 3-7 days, but for some women, it may last longer. Menstruation is a sign that a girl is growing into a healthy woman whose body is now capable of having a baby.
Discussing the signs of menstruation coming for the first time with your daughter can be very helpful. It can prepare her for the changes to come. Signs like body cramps, bloating, mood swings, breast tenderness, acne breakouts, pubic hair, fatigue, and vaginal discharge are some common signs of periods that you should tell her about.
Typically, girls can get their periods between the ages of 10 and 15 with 12 being the average age, but some may experience an earlier or later onset.
Most girls experience a growth spurt before and during puberty. After the first period, a girl’s height may grow 1-2 inches, but this may vary from person to person.
So, if your daughter starts her period at 11-12, she’ll likely continue growing and reach her adult height over the next few years. Everyone develops differently, so don’t worry if it takes some time for her to reach her full height.
Wondering at what age should you talk to your daughter about periods? The truth is that there is no right age to bring up this conversation.
But as most girls start menstruating between 10-15 years of age, anytime before those ages is a good idea. It will prepare her for what’s coming ahead.
Keep it simple and age-appropriate and use visual aids to explain what periods are and how it is a normal part of growing up. You can also talk about period myths and taboos.Additionally, this conversation is not just for your daughters. Involve your sons as well. Educate boys about the female body. This would foster empathy and understanding in them and act as a step in normalizing periods.
Prepare a Period Kit For Her
Explain to your daughter what to expect during her periods and how to manage them.
Provide her with a period kit with all essentials like pads or period panties, educational books on menstruation, heating pads, along with pain relief medicines.
Adding thoughtful treats like chocolates can be a comforting touch.
Teach Her Menstrual Hygiene
Good hygiene is vital during periods to avoid any health issues. Show your daughter the correct way of using pads and how to properly dispose of them. Talk about how often to change pads and how to keep herself clean and comfortable during her menstrual cycle.
Reassure Her and Provide Comfort
Your daughter will have a lot of questions regarding periods like “do periods hurt?” or “what happens if my periods are late?”. You should address these questions with care and honesty and make her feel comfortable. Let her know that you are there to support her and listen to all her concerns.