Have a casual chat with your daughter.
Image: drobotdean / Freepik
Let’s talk about something that’s a big deal but doesn’t have to be scary: your daughter’s first period.
Whether she’s 9 or 14, this milestone is coming, and as a parent, you want to make sure she’s ready.
I’m not just talking about the necessary supplies, but emotionally as well.
Young girls tend to talk among themselves about menstruation and how they deal with it, but it’s up to you to help her especially before the big day arrives.
Here’s how to handle it like a pro, without making it awkward.
Don’t wait until the day she gets her period to talk about it. Bring it up casually before it happens.
You don’t need to have a formal sit-down (unless that’s your vibe).
You can weave it into everyday conversations, like when you’re shopping or watching a movie where it comes up.
The goal is to normalise it so she doesn’t feel weird or embarrassed.
There’s no need for you to get into a full-on biology lecture (unless she’s curious). She might have a few simple questions. Here’s how you can respond.
What is a period? It’s the body’s way of preparing for pregnancy someday.
Why it happens? You can talk to her about hormones, the uterus lining and anything else you feel she needs to know. Just keep it simple.
How often does it come? This is fairly straightforward. She needs to know that it will happen once a month for a few days around about the same time of the month.
That it’s totally normal and nothing to be ashamed of.
If she asks questions, answer them honestly. If you don’t know the answer, say, “Let’s look it up together!” It’s a great way to bond and learn.
Have a stash of period products ready before she needs them. This includes:
Pads: Start with pads because it’s much easier for beginners.
Period panties: These have become a game-changer for comfort.
A bag: A small pouch or bag for her to carry supplies to school.
Show her how to use each product, and let her know it’s okay to experiment to find what works best for her.
Also, remind her that it’s normal to leak sometimes because it happens to everyone.
Make sure she has a small bag for her pads.
Image: Freepik
Periods aren’t just about blood. They can come with mood swings, cramps, and just feeling off. Let her know it’s okay to feel emotional or tired.
Share your own experiences to make her feel less alone.
You could say something like, “Sometimes I get really cranky or sad before my period, and that’s totally normal. If you ever feel that way, just tell me, and we can figure it out together.”
What if she gets her period at school? What if she leaks through her pants?
Talk through these scenarios so she feels prepared.
Pack a little “period kit” for her backpack with pads, clean underwear, and a plastic bag (for any accidents).
Let her know she can always call you or talk to a trusted teacher or nurse if she needs help.
Some girls might feel shy about their first period, while others might want to celebrate.
If she’s up for it, do something special to mark the occasion.
It’s a big step into womanhood, and it’s okay to make it positive.
IOL Lifestyle
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