Red Talk: Preparing the Daughter for Her First Menstrual Period

Most girls worry about when their first menstrual period comes. Girls usually get their period as early as eight years old or as late as 15 years old. However, the average age that a girl gets her first menstruation is around 12.

Preparing your daughter for her period will make the experience much easier for her.

Here are some tips shared by experts:

1. Talk to her about the changes of puberty and the signs that she may experience while having her period.

It is essential to talk to your daughter about menstruation and her thoughts. According to The Children.com, it is crucial to start a conversation and find out what she knows so far. If there is any wrong information, correct it. A comfortable conversation starter would be to share your experience as a mom when you started your period.

2. The conversation should convey the following information:

Menstruation is a normal part of every woman's life. If she is old enough to understand, explain that every eight days or so, one of the ovaries releases an egg (ovulation). If ovulation occurs and the egg does not get fertilized, the egg passes through the uterus. The uterus lining is shed, and it passes through the vagina. Hence, the period.

It is crucial to tell her that starting her period makes her capable of getting pregnant.

Let her know that it is normal to experience several symptoms during menstruation: aches in the back of the abdomen, tender breasts, headaches, fatigue, bloating, mood swings, and food cravings.

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3. Show how tampons and pads are used.

When your daughter starts developing breasts, encourage her to bring an extra pad or tampon in her bag or purse if "her period" comes.

4. Discuss what she needs to do if her period happens at school

As per VeryWell Family, tell your daughter that if her period occurs at school, ask for permission to go to the girl's bathroom to check. It is best to keep a pad in their book bags or school lockers, just in case. A small pad can conveniently fit in her tiny handbag as well. Hence, advise her to carry a pad anywhere.

If your daughter does not have a pad, instruct her to go to the school nurse as she may be able to provide her with one.

5. Make a plan if your daughter will be away from home for an extended time

If your daughter has a trip somewhere without you, make sure to plan by buying her a few pads in case she gets her period. It is also essential to explain to sit out from swimming until her menstrual period has ended.

When to call a doctor?

Although most girls do not have problems with their period, KidsHealth.org cites instances when it is necessary to call a health practitioner if your daughter experiences these "period" related concerns:

•  She still does not have her period at 15 years of age.
•  Her breast developed three years ago, but she still does not have a period.
•  Her period does not come every three to six weeks, especially if she misses three or more periods.
•  She experiences severe cramps that are not relieved by Ibuprofen and get in the way of her everyday activities.
•  Has heavy bleeding (or bleeding that goes through tampon or pad for less than two hours).

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