The first menstrual period of a girl is usually known as their period and it is an experience which is often memorable to most ladies. Lack of knowledge or readiness regarding the initial monthly flow of blood can be a cause of negative memories pertaining to the event. Usually, girls experience their first period from the ages of about 8 to 16 years, although at an average the age group is generally fixed at 12 years.

Generally, experts suggest that moms and parents should educate their daughters about the subject well before their first period because this will help you address her concerns and issues, other than allowing her to avoid shock or disappointment.

First Menstrual Period

You can follow certain helpful tips to ensure a smooth journey for her. Instead of encouraging them to participate in a long conversation about the experience, you will find that your preteen is more receptive in case it is broken into different small sessions.

In fact, you can bring up the topic of reproduction and acquaintance with her body frequently since childhood, ensuring that a little more of the information is included each year. Girls can prefer to discuss the issue with their moms or any female member of the family, although dads can also be included in discussions about first menstrual period.

As preteens acquire a majority of their knowledge from the friend circle or peer group, you can begin by discussing what is already known to her on issues pertaining to menstruation and puberty. If there is any kind of misinformation, feel free to correct her. Stress on the fact that her first menstrual period can take place any time from 8 to 16 years and the girl might feel uncomfortable initially to menstruate in a group and feel left out especially in a situation when most peers have encountered their first period.

Elaborate on what to expect once the first period is there. Do not be vague about things like ‘passage to womanhood’ and ‘Aunt Flo’ which is one of the common nicknames used for menstruation. She should be trained about using and changing pads, and handle things if period starts in the middle of the class. She should also be trained on avoiding leakage, washing stains and care for her clothing in case of leakage. You may conduct experiments with water and demonstrate the functioning of different products like assessing the amount of liquid a panty liner, pad or tampon collects.

Once you are open in discussing about her first period, your daughter will feel reassured. It is important to change tampons and pads regularly to maintain good hygiene and cleanliness. You may even help your daughter out with a comfort kit including a pad or tampon, clothing and ibuprofen if her school permits OTC medications.

This kit can be stocked in a cosmetic bag which can be kept in the backpack or locker. You should always stay positive towards your daughter’s first menstrual period because she will absorb this attitude. Tell them that menstruation is an important stage of growing up and plays a significant role in the reproductive cycle.