When it’s your adult daughter’s period time, how can you talk with her about health and hygiene during her menstrual period? Girls need to learn about the period and why it occurs. 1st period time, their concern why bleeding. They need reliable information and support to handle it. But most parents and girls feel uncomfortable discussing it. Many parents wonder, “How to talk to my daughter about her period?”
Most parents think it isn’t the right time to discuss this with their adult children. But it’s better to talk with the daughter concisely. If teenage girls don’t know, it can impact their health and scare them about their first period.
I will discuss when your daughter may start her period, how to recognize the signs, and how to talk to her about it & support her.
Signs your daughter is about to start her first period
A period is part of menstruation and a specific time of the month when girls bleed from their vagina for a few days. Once a girl starts her period, a few signs and symptoms often become noticeable 3 to 5 days before the period happens. Those symptoms indicate that her period is about to begin again. If a girl hasn’t gotten her first period yet, there are no definitive signs indicating that it is about to happen soon. But, there are some indirect signs the girl can notice that may indicate she is about to get her first period.
You may notice a few symptoms before your daughter gets her first period:
- Spotting of blood
- Bloating
- Mood swings
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Growth Spurts
- Breasts developing
- Hair growing under the arms and private parts
When should you talk to your daughter about periods
Most girls start their period at the age between 10 to 14 and the average age is 12. You can talk to your daughter about this even before she reaches that age. And the ideal age may be around 6 to 7 years old. Most girls of this age can understand the basics of period.
Before you start the conversation about “the talk”, look for some natural moments. If your girl notices some body changes and asks you why it happens, you will answer it and drag it to the subject of puberty and period. Let your daughter know that these are all natural things and almost every girl goes through them.
What to say to daughter in period talk
Your first goal should be to normalize the experience of period and let her understand it’s normal and there is nothing to be ashamed of. Discussing periods with your girl can help her feel comfortable when she notices some changes in her body. In the “period talk” you should talk about puberty, body changes, and periods. With this, you can add the relation between these things and potential pregnancy.
A simple way to explain period and menstruation to your daughter is by saying “As you grow, your body changes, and you start to become a woman. One of these changes is menstruation, which prepares your body for the possibility of pregnancy.”
How to talk to your daughter about her period
To have the period talk with your daughter, start by choosing a private place where she feels comfortable. Start the conversation by saying something like “I want to talk to you about periods because it’s a natural part of growing up, and I’m here to help you with any questions or concerns.” Create a safe environment for open discussion about periods, which can help encourage her to share thoughts and feelings on the topic.
Let’s discuss what to talk and how to talk in the “period talk”:
Use real and anatomical words (vagina, breast, uterus, menstruation, etc). These words will help normalize the conversation and reduce confusion and shame. Try avoiding euphemisms or vague language as they can cause confusion and embarrassment.
Explain What a Period Means. You can address a few common questions: What is a period? Why does it occur? When does it start? How long does it last? Why does bleeding happen during this time? This will help your daughter understand period basics and reassure her that this is a normal and healthy process that all girls experience.
Discuss Its Symptoms. Periods can come with some symptoms that include cramping, bloating, mood swings, and headaches. Some girls may also experience breast tenderness. Let your daughter understand that these symptoms are normal and a part of the menstrual cycle. Don’t forget to say period symptoms can be different and vary depending from girl to girl. Encourage her to track her symptoms so that she can understand what’s typical for her.
Explain Physical and Hormonal Changes. During her period, body undergoes hormonal changes that affect mood, energy levels, and emotions. It’s natural to feel a bit different during this time. Discussing these changes can help her feel more prepared and less anxious.
Talk About Period Products. Periods can be managed using pads, tampons, and menstrual cups, period panties. Discuss how to choose the right product based on her comfort and activity level. You can also talk about how to use these products safely and hygienically. Offering to shop for supplies together can help her feel more empowered and confident.
Share Your Own Period Experience. Sharing your own experiences with your period can help normalize the conversation. You might discuss how you felt during your first period, any challenges you faced, and what you learned over time. This openness can foster trust and encourage her to share her feelings or concerns without embarrassment.
Talk About Preparedness. Help her create a period kit and encourage her to carry period products in it. Discuss the importance of knowing when her period is likely to start and how to manage it at school or during activities. This preparation helps reduce anxiety and may make her feel more in control.
Address Myths and Misinformation. Period myths like the idea that you can’t swim or that periods should be painful. It’s essential to clarify these misconceptions and provide accurate information. Encourage her to ask questions and seek the truth.
Be Open to Questions. Create an open environment where she feels comfortable asking questions about her period. Tell her no question is too silly and you’re there to support her. This ongoing dialogue can help her feel more secure and informed as she navigates this new stage of life.
How can you prepare yourself for the first period talk?
To talk about periods with your daughter, you need to be well prepared. Firstly, determine what to say in this conversation. Gather the appropriate information about what you will tell. Don’t use difficult words or language that might confuse and embarrass her. Never tell a lie or try not to hide any points. You can show her some period products you use and teach her how to use them. At last, be open to any questions she may have about periods. Ensure she understands that period is a part of her growing up and it’s completely normal.
As a dad, how should you talk to your daughter about periods?
Many dads may feel embarrassed to talk to their daughters about periods. They have concerns and wonder how to approach the topic and if they are the right person to discuss it with their daughter. Look, period is a sensitive thing and it’s a natural part of your daughter’s growing up. If she doesn’t receive proper education about this, it may lead to confusion or anxiety.
One thing you have to realize when it comes to periods, there is no difference between moms and dads. You can talk to your daughter about her period just as a mom would. You can teach her about periods, answer questions, provide support, and offer guidance in the same way a mom does.
Conclusion
You can answer to your daughter some common questions to educate her about periods:
How long does a period last?
A period typically lasts about 3 to 5 days. But it can be more shorter or longer like 2 days or 7 days.
Is it normal to have irregular periods?
Yes, it’s normal for periods to be irregular, especially during the first 2 to 3 years after menstruation begins. Then it becomes regular and consistent till reaching 20s.
Can stress affect my menstrual cycle?
Yes, stress may impact menstrual cycle which can lead to irregular periods, missed periods, or changes in flow.
How to track a period?
You can track your period using a calendar, a period-tracking app, or a journal. Note the start and end dates, flow intensity, and any symptoms.
What is the best period product?
Period products include pads, tampons, menstrual cups, and period underwear. Which one is best? it depends on everyone’s personal preference and comfort. It’s better to try all these different products to see what works best for you.
Does period hurt?
Yes, sometimes period hurts which is known as period cramps. But, not everyone experiences the same cramps, the severity varies from person to person.
Can exercise help with period pain?
Yes, exercise helps with period pain. But, recommended to practice only gentle exercise or light physical activities during periods. Otherwise, the pain can be even worse.
What is the average cycle length?
The average menstrual cycle length is around 28 days, but it can range from 21 to 35 days in adults.