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How to Talk to your child about Menstruation
By peace | March 25, 2006
Menstruation is a momentous event in a girl’s life. Some girls greet those first drops of blood with glee: Yes! Me! Finally! Some feel bewildered and shy. Whatever the reaction, the arrival of the first period holds the same meaning for every girl. It’s proof that she’s becoming a woman.
On average, most girls start their periods when they’re 12 or 13 years old (although some girls get them earlier or later). But if you wait until your daughter gets her period to talk to her about menstruation, that’s too late.
So, how do you talk to your daughter about menstruation and offer education, as well as guidance and support, before the big day even arrives? Or, what do you tell your son? (Boys have questions, too.)
Tips for Talking To Kids About Menstruation
Just as parents might be slightly embarrassed to talk about menstruation with their children, kids and teens may find it difficult to let Mom and Dad know they have questions or concerns. If talking about menstruation is awkward for you, here are some things you can do that might make discussions a little easier and more open:
- Check out some good books and videos or DVDs that can help foster a more comfortable and educational conversation.
- Speak to your family doctor about ways to talk about menstruation and puberty.
- Brush up on the facts of menstruation and have information readily available for your child to look at or read.
- Coordinate your conversations with the health lessons and sex education your child will be receiving in school. Ask your child’s teacher about his or her plans and for any advice.
- To break the ice, try asking your child some questions that will help you both ease into discussions. A great way to start is to ask your child what kind of questions he or she has while you walk down the feminine-hygiene products aisle at your grocery store or while you watch a commercial for pain relievers advertised to alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
- If you hear your child mention something related to getting a period, spur a conversation by asking your child what he or she meant or where he or she learned the information. Often, questions can be a great way to set the record straight on any misconceptions your child might have.
- Before you take your preteen daughter for a routine checkup, you might let her know that her doctor will likely ask about that during her appointment. As girls get close to an age when they might begin to menstruate, family doctors may ask if they’ve gotten their periods yet. This might make for a good opportunity for you to talk with your daughter about any concerns or questions she has about getting her first period.
It’s important to feel as comfortable as possible with the information you provide your child, to tell your child what’s appropriate for his or her age, and to always tell the truth. And don’t be put off by all of your child’s questions. They’re probably the same questions you had at that age, and now you can answer them as well - if not better - than they were answered for you.
Topics: All Posts, Children, Woman's Health |
