Menarche, Educating Your Daughter on Periods

Aiko Author

The What and How of Accurate Period Information

What is Menarche?

Menarche is the time of your very first period.

Did you know that your experiences at your very first period, can strongly influence your experience of menstruation for the rest of your life?

It's an important conversation to have. But when it comes to educating your daughter about periods, what should you cover? And how do you go about it in a way that's both accurate and comfortable for both of you?

We know it can be daunting. But don't worry, I'm here to help. In this article, we'll give you the lowdown on what to talk about—and what not to talk about—when it comes to your daughter's periods. Plus, I'll give you some tips on how to make the conversation a little bit easier for both of you.

Why Is Accurate Period Information Important for Girls?

It's important to ensure that your daughter has access to accurate period information because it can help her become more comfortable with her body and periods in general. When girls have a better understanding of what's happening with their bodies, they're less likely to feel ashamed or embarrassed. And as they get older and enter puberty, they'll be equipped with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.

Plus, accurate information helps dispel some of the myths and misinformation that are often circulated about periods. Myths can be harmful because they can result in girls feeling anxious or confused about something that is a normal part of their lives. So we must provide our daughters with accurate information so that they can feel confident and comfortable as they undergo these changes.

What Are the Basics of Menstrual Anatomy and Physiology Every Girl Needs to Know?

As your daughter enters puberty and starts to menstruate, she must have a general understanding of her menstrual anatomy and physiology. This will help her better understand her own body and menstrual cycle, as well as provide accurate information she needs to talk about periods with her friends or healthcare providers.

There are a few key things every girl should know about periods:

• The uterus is a muscular organ located in the lower abdomen. It's where a baby grows during pregnancy.
• The ovaries are two small, almond-sized organs located on either side of the uterus. They produce eggs (ova) that travel down the fallopian tubes to the uterus.
• Menstruation is the shedding of the uterine lining, which happens when an egg released from an ovary isn't fertilized by a sperm.
• Periods usually last 3-7 days and can vary from month to month.
• Most women get their first period between the ages of 10 and 15 years old.
• After the menarche, usually, the body takes about a year to regulate. During this year teach her to journal her menstrual cycle. 
• The menstrual cycle has the qualities of all seasons and they're called the Inner Seasons.

It's also important for your daughter to understand that everyone's periods are different and that there is no "normal" way for them to occur. Periods can be light, heavy, long, or short, and some women have cramps while others don't. Stress, diet, and other factors can also affect how a woman's period unfolds each month. This is why it's so important to teach her how the inner seasons work and how to harmonize with each of them. 

Understanding Changes During Puberty

Your daughter is going to start menstruating soon, and she must understand what's happening to her body. That's why you should talk to her about periods—the what and how of accurate period information.

Menstruation is the process of shedding the inner lining of the uterus. This lining forms each month in preparation for a possible pregnancy, and if fertilization doesn't occur, the lining is shed as menstrual fluid.

Your daughter will start menstruating anywhere between the ages of 8 and 16. The average age is 12, but it can vary. There's no way to predict when it will start, so it's important to be prepared for anything.

Some girls get their period early, some get it late, and others experience irregular periods for a while after they start menstruating. This is all normal, so there's no need to worry. Just be there to answer any questions she may have and offer support.

The Essential Health and Hygiene of Periods

Giving your daughter the accurate information about periods that she needs is essential. This includes information about health and hygiene, such as how to change her pads and tampons, what kind of skin care products are best to use during her period, and how to identify changes in her body that could indicate any potential problems.

It’s important to make sure your daughter knows it’s normal to have cramps during her period, but if she’s experiencing anything more severe she should talk to you or a doctor about it. And no matter what, make sure your daughter knows when it’s time for a trip to the gynecologist for a checkup.

You also want to make sure your daughter knows the importance of good hygiene. Talk about washing hands before changing pads or cups and after throwing them away, as well as showering and washing the intimate parts on her period - this is especially important if she’s physically active. This will help keep any bad smells away and maintain healthy pH levels in the vagina area.

The Importance of Mental Health During a Period

It's important to make sure your daughter knows that periods can also affect mental health, as hormonal changes can disrupt mood. Encourage her to pay attention to her feelings by journaling her menstrual cycle, especially if she notices changes in her emotions and behavior. Let her know that it's normal to feel irritable or anxious during her inner autumn and it's okay to talk about these feelings openly.

Validate her experiences and help her learn how to cope with these feelings—whether it's through exercise, meditation, talking with friends, or other activities that bring joy. Let your daughter know that you are there for her while she learns more about herself and finds out what works best for her.

Dealing With Period Cramps and Other Physical Changes

Have you talked to your daughter about period cramps and other physical changes? Cramping is a very normal part of periods, but it doesn’t have to be debilitating. As your daughter enters puberty, you must explain that she may experience PMS—premenstrual syndrome—which includes bloating, headaches, mood swings, and cramps.

It’s also important for her to be aware of the different medical options available if natural ways don't work. Teaching her healthy lifestyle habits like staying hydrated and getting enough sleep can also help manage cramps. Additionally, having a heating pad handy can help alleviate cramps, but be sure to explain that this should not be used too often or for too long as it could cause skin burns.

Explaining these things will equip your daughter with the right knowledge and tools to handle her period when it arrives.

Many women like to make some sort of ritual for their daughter's menarche. Here it's important to e aware of your daughter's mood. If she's shy and not so open, then I would suggest doing something more intimate, maybe only between you and her. You could for example do a day out among the two of you, a lady day. You can go for an art course or something that she enjoys. 

Conclusion

So, what should your daughter know? She must understand the menstrual cycle in detail—from the various stages (inner seasons) to what’s happening physiologically. It’s also key that she knows how to handle her periods hygienically and safely. Finally, she should be aware of the emotions and feelings she may experience during her period. Equipped with this information, your daughter will be able to approach her periods with knowledge and confidence.

Learn more about your cycle on my blog page!

Categories: : Inner Seasons, Menstrual Cycle, Menstrual Harmony