Most mums worry about their daughters’ first periods. They either feel awkward talking about it with their daughters, or they simply don’t know where to start. But as a mum, you are your daughter’s first source of information and support. Therefore, you must prepare yourself fully for your daughter’s first period. Here is everything you need to know to make this experience easy on both yourself and your daughter.
First of all, talking about first periods is very important. Some mums might feel shy or uncomfortable addressing this topic with their daughters. But you must keep in mind that you want to be a reliable source of information and support for your daughter. And having a conversation about your daughter’s first period is the first step. It will also bring you two closer and create a great trust bond between you two.
In addition, we advise you to look up all the information you need. Preparing yourself makes you a reliable source for your daughter. This will make talking to you easier as your daughter grows up. It will also help you to answer all her questions and curiosities.
When should I talk about periods with my daughter?
Timing is essential regarding this conversation. You need to have this conversation at an age where your daughter understands what you are saying. While also having it before she hits puberty. That is because you want to prepare her for this phase, which includes a lot of overwhelming changes. So, the best age to do so is around the age of 10 or 11 years old. At this age, your daughter will understand the idea, and prepare herself mentally for the experience ahead of her.
Also, make sure to answer all of her questions. Leave nothing unanswered, and explain again if she didn’t understand. Do not shut her down or ignore her curiosities. Because that might ruin the trust bond between the two of you. All you have to do is have a clear, informative and straightforward conversation.
So, the best time to address first periods is when you first notice changes on your daughter’s body. In other words, when your daughter starts showing puberty signs. Here are some of the most common puberty signs amongst girls:
- – Growing body.
- – Breast development.
- – Body hair growth.
- – More sweating than usual.
- – Facial acne.
What to tell my daughter about her first period?
Understanding menstrual periods from one conversation can be a little hard to do. Therefore, having multiple conversations about this will be very helpful. Start by explaining that periods happen to girls in different ways and ages. Tell your little girl that she might get her period at the age of 11 or the age of 15. Assure her that there is no fixed timeline, and she will have it when her body is ready. Also, explain that some periods are heavy, others are light. So whatever she experiences is completely normal and fine.
Moreover, the idea of bleeding, hormones, and physical changes can be overwhelming for little girls. Therefore, keep reassuring her that it is all normal, and that she will be fine. Explain to your daughter that a period means her body is growing. And that she is turning into to a young woman. Most little girls love the idea of entering womanhood, and becoming strong and independent ladies. And having this conversation will empower them and make them more confident and educated about their bodies.
Give your daughter a clear picture of what she might experience.
As we mentioned before, explaining expectations is very important and helpful during a first menstrual period. So, prepare your daughter’s expectations. For example, explain how periods happen once a month, or once every 6 weeks. Talk about hormonal changes and what it might cause. Such as irregular periods, mood swings, bloating, cramps, etc. and most importantly, keep reassuring her how normal all of it is.
Also, discuss personal hygiene before, during and after a menstrual period. Explain the special products she will be using, like pads and feminine wash for example. And talk about what meds she can take to make her period less painful.
What can my daughter’s first period signs be?
There are many common signs for your daughter’s first period, including:
- – Bloating.
- – Mood swings.
- – Back pain.
- – Breast pain.
- – Acne.
- – Being emotional.
- – Getting more tired than usual.
- – Craving sweets.
- – Constipation.
Ask your daughter to share those signs when she experiences them. This will help you prepare for her period and get everything she needs from pads, painkillers, and feminine wash.
How to make my daughter’s first period easier?
We believe that preparing ahead for your daughter’s first period is the best way to make it easier. That is why we went into research mode and created the perfect first period kit. My First Period Kit from Pectiv includes everything a little lady needs for her time of the month. It includes overnight pads, which ensure a good night’s sleep with no morning surprises. Teen pads, feminine wash, and wipes. This kit will help your girl through her first period whenever and wherever.
Finally, consider celebrating this happy occasion and get your little girl a nice, first period, gift. There are plenty amazing gifts for girls that you can get your daughter.