Preparing Your Daughter for Her First Period

You might notice the signs of growing up a year in advance. The changes in her body will catch your eye. When you are done fainting that you are the mother of a soon-to-be ‘little woman’, start thinking about preparing your daughter for her first period.

I am the last one of 4 siblings and my mom, wonderful though she is, did not find this a comfortable topic. As a result, I was completely unprepared for my period. I did not even know what it was…lol. Well, I survived, and so will our daughters. But it is a good idea to lessen the shock by preparing them in advance. Here is how I prepared my daughter for her first period.

1. Educate Her

Talk to your daughter well in advance. The TV commercials have already done a great job in building common knowledge about menstrual cycles. You might already have been asked the question about your sanitary pads. Don’t dodge the question. Take it as an opportunity. Answer in simple and clear terms. The TV ads will handle the graphic representation part for you. Additionally, tell her about the other changes her body is going through. Her new curves, vaginal and underarm hair etc. You can leave out the part of the ovary and the egg to after she has had her period, if you like.

2. Bust Myths

Explain very clearly to your daughter that having periods is a very natural part of growing up and that all girls, including Mamma, go through it. Tell her that it is completely okay for her to do mild activity and her usual chores during periods.

3. Keep Her Prepared

The biggest fear where periods are concerned is when they will start. It can be anywhere – at home or school – when you might not be around to help. Prepare a little pouch for her to carry everywhere. Keep in it a small pad and a clean panty in case she stains the one she is wearing. Also keep a polythene bag for her to bring in the soiled panty. Always keep a supply of sanitary napkins at home. I have begun purchasing a 30 or 45 piece pack from Amazon and distributed them in my handbag, her school bag, in the car emergency kit etc. This will build her (and your!) confidence and you will both feel equipped.

4. Emotional Support

Lend her emotional support. Tell her that you will always be there should she face any awkwardness at all. Tell her about your own first period. Mine was hilarious. I did not even realize I had begun my period until 2 days after! The tiny dots on my panties seem to have not caught my attention at all. Can you believe it! LOL! I shared this experience with my daughter and we had a good laugh over how silly Mommy was. She will be glad to prove herself smarter than her mommy I am sure!