Preparing for the First Period: What Every Mother Should Do
🔍 The first step is understanding what a period is all about.
What is Menstruation?
"Menstruation is the monthly shedding of the lining of the uterus (endometrium) in people with a uterus, accompanied by bleeding through the vagina. It is a natural and healthy part of the reproductive cycle.
Menstruation typically begins during puberty. The importance of menstrual health and hygiene, especially for adolescent girls, as a fundamental aspect of health, education, and human rights.
Why meanstruation /period starts:
A period starts as a natural part of the female reproductive cycle, signaling that the body is becoming capable of reproduction.
Here’s a simple explanation:
Why a Period Starts:
Each month, the body prepares for a possible pregnancy. Hormones like estrogen and progesterone trigger the uterus to build up a thick, nutrient-rich lining called the endometrium. This lining is where a fertilized egg would implant and grow if pregnancy occurs.
However, if no egg is fertilized:
The body no longer needs the lining. The hormone levels drop. The uterus sheds the lining through the vagina. This shedding is what we call a period or menstruation.
👩👧 Here are the key responsibilities of mothers before their daughters experience their first period (menarche):
1. Start Early Conversations 🗣️
Talk openly and age-appropriately about menstruation, body changes, and puberty.Normalize the topic so your daughter doesn’t associate it with shame or fear.
2. Educate About the Menstrual Cycle 📚
Explain what menstruation is, why it happens, and how it’s a natural part of growing up. Use simple, clear language and encourage questions.
3. Prepare Her Emotionally 🧠
Reassure her that what she’s going through is normal. Address fears and myths with compassion and facts.
4. Introduce Hygiene Practices 🧼
Teach her how to use sanitary products like pads, tampons, or menstrual cups. Emphasize the importance of changing pads regularly and maintaining cleanliness.
5. Create a First-Period Kit 🎒
Put together a small pouch with pads, clean underwear, and wipes she can keep in her school bag. Include a comforting note or instructions to help her feel supported.
6. Be a Safe Space 🛑
Let her know she can come to you with questions or concerns without judgment. Share your own experience to make her feel less alone.
7. Discuss Physical and Emotional Changes 🔄
Talk about other puberty changes like breast development, mood swings, and acne. Help her understand how hormones might affect her feelings and reassure her that it’s okay.
8. Teach Her About Period Tracking 📅
Introduce the concept of tracking her cycle, either with a calendar or an app, once she starts. Help her notice patterns and understand her body better.
9. Promote Body Positivity ❤️
Encourage her to appreciate her body and its changes without shame. Correct any negative self-talk or misconceptions she may have picked up from peers or media.
10. Keep the Conversation Ongoing 🔁
Don’t treat it as a one-time talk. Keep checking in and talking regularly. Be proactive about guiding her through every stage of her development.
By taking these steps, mothers can help ensure their daughters face menstruation with confidence, knowledge, and a sense of support.