There is this awkward stage in a parent’s life- deciding how to talk to kids about puberty and menstruation.
If the subject was brought up too early, the kids may not really understand it just yet, but if discussed too late then they might have already gone through the ordeal on their own.
A lot pf parents are still wondering at what age should they start telling their daughters about menstruation.
The truth is, there is no specific age. You just have to take note if they are showing any signs of being in these milestones.
However, the perfect time is more likely when they show curiosity about these matters. As early as 8 years old, some girls are already going through physical changes as a starting point of their puberty stage. While it will definitely be tough for the girls, it will also be challenging for parents.
There are parents who would feel like they are losing their little girls, then there are those that are openly transitioning to magazines from reading bedtime stories.
When your daughter is already showing signs of puberty, is there a standard approach on how to start the “orientation” with them? How about with kids who do not talk openly with parents about anything, what approach should you use?
The fact is, it will be different for each girl.
So, when your daughter is being secretive about it, and your friend’s daughter talks about it a lot, do not take it personally; it is not a sign of defiance.
It could just be her way of trying to cope up and venture on the puberty stage on her own. As a parent, you need to keep your communication line open all the time because they will need your guidance and patience on this matter.
Since each girl is unique, just make sure that you understand the basics of menstruation. Remember, your own personal experience may not be the same as your daughter’s.
A girl’s first period may happen between ages 11 and 13; however, depending on your daughter’s body, it can happen between 8 to 16 years old.
An average cycle is 28 days, but for some it can run from 21 to 35 days which is still within normal range. If she has longer cycles, then you can expect fewer periods in a yearly basis.
The hormones are responsible for the changes experienced during the puberty stage. These are actually substances that are released by the glands within the body to help regulate body functions.
During the early stages of puberty, the pituitary gland begins to produce and release hormones to stimulate the production of estrogen in her ovaries.
These are the primary reasons behind the changes in the body and the explanation for her menstrual cycle.
A woman’s body has two ovaries; each one carrying their eggs or ova. During the follicular or pre-ovulation phase, the hormones will stimulate production of ova and thicken the endometrium, of the uterus, where pregnancy is more likely to occur.
Ovulation phase: When the ova are matured, they will be released from the ovary; usually within 16 days prior her next cycle.
The eggs will travel from the ovary passing through the fallopian tube to reach the uterus, where it stays. In the event of fertilization, the fertilized egg will stick to the lining of her uterus and grow into a baby.
Luteal phase: The premenstrual phase is the time when the body is preparing the linings of her uterus for the possibility of a successful fertilization.
The linings will thicken as part of the preparation as this is where the fertilized egg would attach itself during pregnancy. However, if fertilization does not happen, the linings of the wall would be shed out.
Menstruation phase: This is now the shedding out of the womb lining through the vagina as a fluid – part of this is blood.
It is commonly called “period” or the first day of her menstrual cycle. It may last as short as 3 days, but could also take as long as seven days for some girls.
Since it is every girl’s concern, ease her worries by telling her some of the symptoms she will be experiencing prior to her period. The most common signs would be having vaginal discharges and her breasts getting tender to touch.
Knowing how to talk to kids about puberty and menstruation will not only answer their curiosity about the changes they are going through.
It is also a way of bonding with your daughters, while letting them know that you are with them through this difficult milestone.
Knowing how to talk to kids about puberty and menstruation will not only answer their curiosity about the changes they are going through.
It is also a way of bonding with your daughters, while letting them know that you are with them through this difficult milestone.
