Even though the biological process of menstruation is very important, most children are curious about practical information. In other words, your child may be more interested in when it’s coming, what they’re going to feel, and what they should do when it’s finally here. In these scenarios, you can provide answers to the following questions.

What’s menstruation? Menstruation indicates that a woman’s body is physically ready to become pregnant. In the menstrual cycle, estrogen levels increase during its first half, thickening the uterus lining. This thickened lining will maintain a fertilized egg or embryo if pregnancy happens. As the lining develops, an egg will begin to mature within one of the ovaries. On around the fourteenth day of a 28-day cycle, this egg will abandon the ovary, a process known as ovulation. The egg will travel to the uterus through one of the fallopian tubes. Pregnancy will happen if a sperm cell fertilizes the egg, and it will attach to the uterine wall. If the egg is not fertilized, it will break apart, the hormone levels will decrease, and the thickened lining of the uterus will shed through the woman’s private part, which is what we call a period.
When will it happen? It’s not possible to say when exactly the first period will take place. However, menstruation usually begins around 2 years after a woman’s breasts start developing. Most girls have their first period when they’re between 10 and 15 years old, with 12 being the average age.
How long will it last? The first few periods may be light with small spots of blood. Periods typically last between 3 and 5 days. However, periods that last from 2 to 7 days are also normal. Additionally, you can explain that even though periods usually occur once a month, some women may get it every 3 to 6 weeks.
Will it hurt? There could be symptoms like abdominal or back cramps in lower areas, as well as breast tenderness, headaches, nausea, dizziness, and diarrhea. These can be relieved by heating pads, physical activity, and warm baths.
What should I do when the time comes? Show your child how to use tampons, sanitary pads, and menstrual cups. Explain that these should be changed frequently — every 4-8 hours if she’s using tampons or pads, and every 8-12 hours for menstrual cups. Make sure to get different sanitary products and store them in the bathroom in advance. Motivate your child to find the most appropriate products for them.
Will other people know what’s going on? Explain that menstrual cups, tampons, and pads are invisible through a person’s clothes. Encourage your daughter to keep the necessary supplies in her locker or backpack in case she has her first period while away from home.

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