Your daughter’s first period marks a very crucial phase in her life, so navigating it with positivity and reassurance plays a very important role. Support and guidance provided during this significant transition can shape her overall perspective towards the periods.
Signs for onset of puberty/periods:
Mothers will perhaps understand when their daughters are entering puberty by observing physical changes like breast development and growth of body hair. Some other signs can be development of acnes/pimples or frequent mood swings.
When to start these conversations?
It is never too early to start these period conversations with your young daughter. Ensuring the conversation about your child’s first period is casual and comfortable can foster open communication and a healthy attitude towards menstruation.
There will be occasions when your daughter encounters pads or liners and has questions about them. In such instances, it’s important to maintain a neutral tone and educate her about these menstrual products.
How to react when your daughter gets her first period?
It is likely for your daughter to be scared and overwhelmed when she gets her first periods especially when she is not fully informed or prepared for the experience. Your response at this time is very critical. Its important to listen to her, stay composed and avoid panic. Sometimes a nice hug can do the magic.
Don’t exaggerate
Avoid making a big fuss or creating unnecessary drama about your daughter’s period. Refrain from using phrases like “she’s become a woman now” or “how could she get her periods this early” etc. She is already scared and figuring her way out. It is very important to give her reassurance and encourage her during this time when she is transitioning into a very different phase of her life.
Celebrate the periods
Celebrating periods can normalize the experience and make it a positive one for daughters, fostering a sense of happiness and acceptance around this natural part of life. Let your family know about it. Throw a small fun party or may be watch a movie to lighten the mood and celebrate it.
Prepare with her
Educate her about Puberty, detailing the physical and mental changes that she might go through. Equip her with knowledge about potential situations she might encounter, such as spotting or staining. Prepare a period essential kit along with her which should include some pads, liners, wet wipes, extra underwear and bag for soiled panty. Explain her how she should remain positive and not feel stressed in case she happens to stain her pants.
Conclusion
In conclusion, let’s make the periods natural for our daughters. Let’s be their best friends during this crucial time and prepare them for future.
