The first menstruation in a girl marks an important vital milestone. Although she is a long way from being an adult woman, she is not a child either and she will witness great biological, physical and emotional changes in her adolescence that will make her feel misunderstood, lost and uncertain. For this reason, the role of her parents is essential to guide her and accompany her in her maturing process.
There was a time when the period was a taboo, associated with something unpleasant and negative that was hardly talked about. Although as a society we still experience the blows of this approach, we are increasingly aware of the importance of destigmatizing the period and approaching it as something natural. If your daughter attends her menarche (her first menstruation), you must know what to do and what not, what to say and what not, so that this experience is as positive as possible.
The most important thing is to approach this circumstance from empathy and understanding. You need to know that your daughter is feeling confused, lost, perhaps embarrassed or scared. Don’t judge her emotions, validate how she feels, and be sure to present yourself as a supportive person. In this sense, it is very helpful for the mother to tell him how her first period was, so that a bond of trust is established.
The lack of knowledge is responsible for the fact that the period is often seen as something negative, when it is an indicator of good health and the correct maturation of women. Therefore, make sure you explain correctly and in great detail what menstruation consists of. It goes far beyond reproductive purposes, since the menstrual cycle encompasses important internal and external changes in your daughter. Also talk to her about the different phases she will go through in addition to bleeding: menstrual, preovulatory, ovulatory, and premenstrual phase.
Explain to him how he will feel and what changes he will notice in each of these stages. Tell her that menstruation can have different durations and be regular or irregular (especially common in the first periods). You should also tell him that, although his period shouldn’t hurt, it is a possibility, so that he can warn you and you can go to the doctor to find solutions if something goes wrong.
You must approach menstruation as something natural and positive. Let her know that she shouldn’t be ashamed or hide about having her period. Also, explain to her the different feminine hygiene resources available: tampons, disposable pads, reusable pads, menstrual panties, menstrual cup… Try different alternatives, teach her how to use them and you will find the one that makes her feel most comfortable.
You can buy age-appropriate books for her that explain the biology of women and the nature of the menstrual cycle. Ask him if he has any doubts and try to answer them clearly so that he understands. Finally, you can turn the day of your first period into a positive experience that you will look back on in the future. For example, letting him choose the plan he wants to do, a special dinner or even give him a symbolic gift.
