Most girls begin their menstrual cycle around the age of 12, but a period can appear as early as age 8. Explaining menstruation to your daughter before she gets her first period is very important. Menstruation can be an awkward subject to talk about — especially with preteen girls, who become embarrassed very easily1.
Listed below are some easy steps that moms can take to get their daughter comfortable with the idea of getting her period.
Talk to her
The earlier you speak to your daughter about the changes she can expect in her body, the better. Discuss the various issues of periods from basic hygiene to fear of the unknown.
How to begin the conversation
To start the conversation of your daughter’s upcoming menstrual cycle, you may ask her what she has learned about puberty. Answer any questions she may have and explain the basic changes she will experience during this time. Share your own experiences; this will help alleviate any fear or anxiety of the unknown. Your daughter needs factual information about the menstrual cycle and all the other changes that puberty brings. Talking to her can also help influence the way she feels about her body. In addition, the conversations you have with your daughter about menstruation can lay the groundwork for future talks about dating and sexuality. Answer any questions your daughter may have openly and honestly.
Practical advice
What is your period?
Menstruation or your period means a girl's body is physically capable of becoming pregnant. Every month, one of the ovaries releases an egg. This process is called ovulation. At the same time, hormonal changes prepare the uterus for pregnancy. If ovulation takes place and the egg isn't fertilized, the egg passes through the uterus and out of the body, and the lining of the uterus is shed through the vagina. This is a period2.
Why do only girls have periods?
Explain that boys change in different ways during puberty and experience symptoms including deeper voices and facial hair. Beginning the menstrual cycle means a girl can have a baby. Periods happen because of changes in the uterus—a body part that girls have but boys do not3.
Do girls have their periods for the rest of their lives?
No, a woman stops having her period usually between the ages of 45 and 51, which means she will no longer be able to become pregnant.
How long does a period last and how much blood is there?
It varies for each girl, but periods usually last between three days to a week. Periods can be light, moderate or heavy, and there can be a total of two to four tablespoons (30-59 milliliters) of menstrual fluid, which is made up of blood and vaginal tissue. This can vary from period to period for the same girl.
Do girls always have cramps with their periods?
Concern about cramps is a big issue for many girls. While some girls will experience cramping, many do not for the first one or two years of their period. It's important to tell girls that cramps usually last only a few days. Sometimes a hot water bottle or a heating pad can help ease discomfort. Some find that deep breathing and exercising help also. If cramps become too uncomfortable, your daughter might want to take an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine like ibuprofen.
What's PMS?
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) includes physical and emotional changes (mood swings and irritability, tension, bloating, and breast tenderness) that can occur during the time right before some girls get their periods. Girls usually don't develop symptoms associated with PMS until several years after menstruation starts — if ever. While not all girls experience PMS, for those who do, plenty of rest, exercise and eating a balanced diet may help.
Everyone is different
Your daughter might worry that she's not normal if she starts having her period before or after friends her age do, or if her periods aren't similar to her friends. Explain that menstruation varies from woman to woman. Your daughter's first period will likely be mild, with only a few drops of blood or light spotting.
For more information about preparing your daughter for her first period, ask your doctor or visit Mayo clinic.
Sources:
1. www.mayoclinic.com/health/menstruation/FL00040
2. http://kidshealth.org/parent/positive/talk/talk_about_menstruation.html#