Every woman surely can't forget their experience when they first got their period. No one can exactly predict when menstruation will happen during puberty, so this step into womanhood is a big challenge. However, there's no reason to fret, as there are some ways to help them prepare for whenever it may come.
Some girls are happy to have their first menstruation because it's a proof that they are already a woman, but there are also some who are scared because they don't know what to do. For those parents who have their daughter approaching adolescence, it's important to have them prepared and well-informed about menstruation to avoid any bad experience and possible embarrassment.
Since the menstruation topic is out of a man's comfort zone and this only happens exclusively to women, it's best if the topic will be discussed by mothers with their daughters. For single dads who have no choice, though, you'll surely need this guide to get you started. Here are four ways to help your daughter prepare for menstruation:
1. Start with smaller conversations about adolescence.
Praise your daughter that they have become mature and close to being a woman. Try to insert in small conversations about possible changes that they might experience in their body including pubic hairs and menstruation.
Sit down with your daughter and explain that you're there to help her out through the process, not to embarrass her. Make it clear that they should not be ashamed of open conversation of menstruation, especially with their parents.
2. Education about menstruation should be in a perfect timing.
Kids Health emphasized that "timing is everything." Once you notice that your daughter is already showing signs of physical development -- like breast growing and curving of hips -- she's almost there.
Try to talk with your daughter alone about her approaching first period to avoid her being reserved about the topi. But remember, it's also best to discuss these with them as early as possible -- some girls get their first period as early as 10 years old.
3. Share one's or your own experience about menstruation.
Moms and older sisters can share their unforgettable experience of their first period. Sharing your own experience is the best way of educating your young daughter because it lessens the awkwardness that they will feel about the topic.
As for dads, you can opt to get someone your daughter trusts -- and someone you trust -- to share her experience with her. Or you can always do your own research and find something that you can relate to your daughter with about typical experiences of women when they get their menstruation.
4. Provide her the things she will need and teach her proper hygiene.
As mentioned in an article from WebMD, they should prepare a period kit. Tampons or menstrual pads should always be ready in their bag wherever they go.
You never know when it's going to happen and this little thing can save your daughter's life from embarrassment. Remember: Pads and tampons should be changed every four to six hours, or whenever necessary.
It's also handy to have an extra pair of underwear in their kit, too. Hydrogen peroxide should take care of stains -- but clean them as fresh as possible; dried blood makes it harder to clean.
What about you? Do you have tips to share on how to help your daughters be prepared for their menstruation? Share them below!
