As a member of Generation X, you may recall receiving education on menstruation just before or during your first period.
I have already started talking to my child about menstruation. This is partly because of limited privacy and partly because I want my child to be more informed than I was at their age.
According to Olivia Bellas, a PhD candidate at the University of Adelaide, it is never too early to educate our children about periods, especially since 12% of Australian girls experience their first menstrual cycle between eight and 11 years old.
Supporting Young Girls Dealing with Menstruation in Public
Coping with menstruation in public can be challenging, especially for an eight-year-old girl managing her period at school. Here are ways in which teachers can offer support.
Research Insights on Teaching Menstruation in Schools
A study by Ms. Bellas at Flinders University revealed that Australian school staff had concerns about the suitable age for introducing menstruation education to students.
While many agreed that the current curriculum requirements of ages 10 to 12 were later than ideal, there was uncertainty about the appropriate age to initiate discussions on the topic.
Ms. Bellas argues that the belief in a specific age for discussing menstruation is outdated and suggests that it should be introduced early in schools.
She also stresses the significance of talking about periods at home, emphasizing that menstruation is relevant to everyone and that children can grasp the concept similar to other bodily functions.
Ms. Bellas recommends starting these conversations in a comfortable and safe environment without restrictions on timing.
Importance of Open Dialogue on Sexual Health and Development
Jennifer Power, an associate professor at La Trobe University, underscores the necessity of early and open conversations on topics related to sexual health and development.
She suggests taking advantage of spontaneous moments to discuss periods and avoiding any shame or stigma associated with menstruation.
Diverse Approaches to Menstruation Education
Rochelle Courtenay, the founder of Share the Dignity, mentions the need for inclusive conversations on periods and encourages men to educate themselves on menstruation.
She suggests simple actions like keeping period products accessible to reduce the stigma around menstruation and recommends educational resources available on the Share the Dignity website.
In conclusion, teaching children about bodily functions, including menstruation, is essential for their well-being and success.
Stay open to addressing questions or opportunities about periods without hesitation, as they are a natural part of life.
Dealing with Period Pain
It is common for girls to experience cramps or discomfort during their periods. Encourage the use of heat packs, over-the-counter pain relief medication, or practicing relaxation techniques to manage the pain.
Discussing Emotional Changes
Explain that hormonal changes during periods can sometimes lead to mood swings or emotional fluctuations. Encourage open communication about feelings and provide a supportive environment for girls to express themselves.
Encouraging Hygiene Practices
Emphasize the importance of maintaining good hygiene during periods, including regular changing of pads or tampons, washing hands before and after changing products, and bathing regularly to stay clean and fresh.
Seeking Medical Advice
If girls experience excessively heavy periods, severe pain, or irregularities in their menstrual cycle, it is important to seek advice from a healthcare provider. Regular check-ups and discussions about any concerns are essential for overall health.
Emphasizing Empowerment
Teach girls that menstruation is a natural and empowering process that signifies their body’s ability to create life. Encourage them to embrace their menstrual cycle as a positive aspect of their femininity.
By incorporating these additional points into conversations about periods with children, parents can provide comprehensive information and support to help girls navigate this important stage of development with confidence and understanding.
‘What’s Happening to Me?’
- ‘What’s Happening to Me?’ is a book in the Books Beyond Words series from the Royal College of Psychiatrists, aimed at individuals with learning disabilities. Authored by Karen Gravelle and published by Piatkus, this resource provides insights into puberty and menstruation.
Page last reviewed: 05 January 2023
Next review due: 05 January 2026
A period, or menstruation, is when the uterus sheds its lining, resulting in the discharge of blood from the vagina.
The terms ‘period’ and ‘periods’ are commonly used to refer to menstruation.
During menstruation, hormone levels fluctuate, leading to changes in the body such as mood swings, cramps, and bloating. It is a natural process that marks the beginning of the menstrual cycle, which typically lasts between 21 to 35 days.
It is important to educate young girls about menstruation before they actually start their periods so that they know what to expect and how to manage it.
Parents can help by having open and honest conversations about menstruation and providing their daughters with the necessary supplies, such as pads or tampons, before they start their periods.
It is also important to teach young girls about menstrual hygiene and proper disposal of used sanitary products to prevent infections.
If a young girl experiences severe pain, heavy bleeding, or any other unusual symptoms during her periods, it is important to seek medical advice from a healthcare professional.
Overall, menstruation is a natural process and a normal part of a girl’s development. By providing support and guidance, parents can help their daughters navigate this important milestone with confidence.
Menstrual Cycle Phases and Hormones
The menstrual cycle encompasses four distinct phases, starting from the first day of one period to the first day of the subsequent period.
- The cycle commences with the onset of a period, characterized by varying levels of blood loss in the initial 1-2 days. The duration of bleeding can extend up to 7 days, with variations among individuals.
- Following menstruation, the uterine lining begins to regenerate as the body prepares for a potential pregnancy. Simultaneously, egg follicles mature in readiness for ovulation.
- Midway through the cycle, one of the ovaries releases an egg, which travels through the fallopian tube towards the uterus in a process known as ovulation.
- If fertilization does not occur, the uterine lining sheds once more, marking the conclusion of the cycle.
Oestrogen and progesterone are the primary hormones regulating the menstrual cycle.
Seeking and Providing Guidance on Menstruation
It is quite common for menstrual cycles to be irregular and unpredictable for a period of up to 2 years due to the fluctuations in puberty hormones.
During the initial years, menstrual cycles can vary from as short as 21 days to as long as 45 days, or even longer. Cycles that begin earlier in life tend to become regular sooner than those that begin later.
Approximately 2 years after the first period, menstrual cycles typically become more regular and predictable, usually lasting 25-35 days.
If your child’s menstrual cycles remain irregular 2 years post their first period, it is advisable to consult a GP.
Once your child starts menstruating, they become capable of getting pregnant if sexually active. It is essential to initiate discussions about physical changes in puberty, sexual health, overall well-being, and respectful relationships with your child at this stage if you haven’t already.
Talking about periods
Conversations about periods may be challenging, but it is crucial for your child to be informed about what to expect in their body before their first period.
Some of the key things your child may need or want to know about include:
- Definition and frequency of periods
- Amount of blood and duration of bleeding
- Potential discomfort during periods
- Options for menstrual products – pads, period-proof underwear, tampons, or menstrual cups
- Instructions for using and disposing of pads, tampons, period-proof underwear, or cups
- Preparation for dealing with periods outside the home, such as at school or a friend’s house
- Participation in activities like swimming or exercise during menstruation
If your child is hesitant to discuss periods with you, they might feel more comfortable speaking with another trusted family member, friend, or their GP.
Pads, period-proof underwear, tampons and menstrual cups
Your child will require a supply of sanitary pads, period-proof underwear, tampons, or menstrual cups.
Prior to your child experiencing their first period, it is recommended to demonstrate to them:
- Physical appearance and usage of pads, period-proof underwear, tampons, and cups
- Proper disposal of pads, tampons, or cleansing of period-proof underwear
- Maintenance and cleaning of a menstrual cup
You may suggest to your child to carry pads, period-proof underwear, tampons, or a cup, for example, in a small bag within their school bag or sports bag.
For beginners, pads or period-proof underwear might be the easiest option before transitioning to tampons or a menstrual cup.
Your child can start using tampons and cups at any age, but it may require practice to become accustomed to them.
If your child wishes to use tampons or a menstrual cup, it is beneficial to practice inserting and removing them between periods using lubricants or water for comfort.
Becoming comfortable with using tampons or a menstrual cup can greatly benefit your child during their active daily routine, allowing them to discover their preferred method.
Regarding the quantity of pads, tampons, period-proof underwear, or cups required, your child may need to change them based on the heaviness of their flow, typically every 4-8 hours.
It is necessary for your child to track their menstrual cycle with the help of an app, calendar, or diary to anticipate the onset of their period and plan accordingly.
It is also important to educate your child about proper hygiene during menstruation, including changing pads or tampons regularly, washing their hands before and after handling menstrual products, and keeping the genital area clean to prevent infections.
Period symptoms and pain
Leading up to and during their period, your child may experience various physical symptoms like breast tenderness, skin breakouts, and oily hair, accompanied by abdominal or back pain, nausea, or diarrhea.
To alleviate period pain and other symptoms, your child can engage in activities like taking pain medication, using a heat pad, light exercise, consuming smaller meals frequently, resting with elevated legs, or gentle abdominal massages.
If symptoms persist and significantly impact daily activities, your child should seek medical advice for possible hormone treatments to manage their menstrual cycle.
It’s important for your child to stay hydrated during their period to help reduce symptoms like bloating and headaches. Drinking plenty of water and herbal teas can help alleviate discomfort.
Mood changes before and during periods
Mood changes are commonly observed before or during the initial days of menstruation, ranging from irritability to heightened sensitivity, feelings of anger, anxiety, or depression.
To assist your child during this time, it may help to offer them privacy and space without undue attention if mood changes become distressing or disruptive.
If mood changes persist and cause significant distress, your child can consider consulting a health professional for support and guidance.
Parents and caregivers play a vital role in supporting children with disabilities, autism, and other additional needs during this time. It is important to create a safe and comfortable environment for discussions about periods, allowing the child to ask questions and express any concerns they may have.
Some children may require visual aids, social stories, or other tools to help them understand the concept of menstruation. It is important to use language that is simple and easy for them to grasp, avoiding abstract or complex terms.
Additionally, it is essential to teach children about personal hygiene and how to manage their periods in a way that is appropriate for their abilities. This may include practicing changing pads or learning how to use other menstrual products.
By providing accurate information and support, parents and caregivers can help children with disabilities navigate this aspect of growing up with confidence and understanding.
Looking after yourself
Feeling anxious or emotional about your child entering puberty and starting their periods is normal. Sharing experiences and strategies with other parents facing similar situations can provide comfort and valuable insights.
Talking to Your Daughter About Periods – A Gentle, Supportive Guide
Entering adolescence is a momentous occasion for many young girls, as it marks the beginning of their first menstrual cycle. This natural process of development can raise questions for both daughters and parents.
When Should You Start the Conversation?
There is no perfect time to broach the subject of periods, but it is advisable to address it sooner rather than later, especially considering that some girls may start menstruating early. Approach the topic as an ongoing conversation rather than a single significant discussion.
Take advantage of opportunities, such as when your child shows interest in puberty, pregnancy, or notices menstrual products in stores.
Keep the conversations short and focus on one aspect at a time to prevent overwhelming them.
How to Explain Periods in a Simple, Reassuring Way
Present information clearly and appropriately for their age:
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- Girls experience bodily changes during puberty in preparation for adulthood.
- These changes anticipate the possibility of future motherhood.
- Menstruation is a natural part of the maturing process.
- Periods occur monthly as the body readies itself for potential pregnancy.
- Products like pads and tampons are used to manage menstrual flow.
It’s never too early for children to gain insight into their bodies, so empower them with knowledge from a young age.
Helping Your Daughter Feel Prepared
It’s a good idea to give your daughter some period pads or other period products, such as liners to keep in her school bag just in case.
- Introduce different types of menstrual products – Demonstrate the use of pads and proper disposal methods. Familiarize her with tampons and menstrual cups for future reference.
- Prepare a small kit – Include pads, pantyliners, and spare underwear to help her feel prepared when her period arrives.
- Encourage open dialogue – Let her know she can always approach you with questions or concerns.
Understanding PMS & Period Cramps
Explaining menstrual cramps empathetically can provide comfort for your daughter. Here’s a simple explanation:
Even before experiencing her first period, she may encounter cramps or discomfort, which is common for many adolescent girls and women.
Explain why period cramps happen:
During menstruation, the muscles in the uterus contract to expel unnecessary lining, resulting in cramps. These contractions can sometimes be uncomfortable.
Girls may also face mood swings, bloating, and skin blemishes before their period. Reassure her that these symptoms are normal and offer simple tips for relief.
What About the School Period Talk?
While most schools provide education on periods, initiating a prior conversation can help your daughter feel more at ease and informed. Discuss the fundamentals and encourage the use of appropriate terminology.
Acknowledge the significance of the school’s role in discussing periods:
Appreciate the educational value of her school’s teachings on menstruation to continue the conversation at home.
Share practical tips and your own experience.
Prepare your daughter for what to expect and share your own experiences with menstruation. Let her understand that the dialogue about periods is ongoing.
Your guidance and support will equip your daughter for this new phase in her life. By maintaining an open conversation, you normalize periods as a natural part of the growing process!
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