First period is one of the most important phases in the life of girls. Here is what parents can do to help their daughters deal with their first period.Generally, the average age of girls to get their first period is 12 years. During this phase they experience an unusual growth-spurt in them. It is one of the most crucial phases in their lives when parental support is needed the most. A lot of weird thoughts may come and go in their mind. They may feel nervous. They may feel shy. Some girls may not even feel comfortable to tell their parents when they get their periods. So, at this age a special bonding must be developed between parents and daughters, so they feel free to share such issues.
Tips to Help Your Daughter to Cope with First Periods
Although, mothers have a very important role to play, fathers must also be aware about how they can help their daughters cope with their first periods if the need arises.
Be Prepared
When your daughter reaches puberty and adolescence, you must be prepared to help her deal with it. You must be ready with the things that she may need. For example; keep a stock of sanitary pads and pair of extra panties ready so that your daughter can use them whenever the need arises. In fact you must keep the first period kit ready which may include everything that your daughter may need. Such kit can really help fathers to help their daughters when mothers are not around.
Talk Calmly and Softly
Answer all the questions related to the menstrual cycle calmly and softly. Do not be harsh. Make sure that you do not confuse her. If required take help of different guides that are available online to help your daughter understand menstrual cycle. There are many books as well that she can read to acquire complete and right knowledge about menstrual cycle.
Make Her Understand
Make her understand that it is normal to get periods. All girls have to undergo this phase. Make it a beautiful experience for her rather making it a stressful one. It is very important to help her sail through her first period smoothly and happily.
Reduce Her Nervousness
It is necessary to help your daughter reduce the nervousness that she may face while going through this phase. To reduce her nervousness, she must be given simple instructions. She should be guided about how many times they should change the disposable napkins and the right way to dispose them off. She should be aware of what can be done when the sanitary napkins are not available.
Make Her Comfortable
It is necessary to make your daughter comfortable to be herself while she is dealing with her periods. During these days, you must try to keep her happy. Cook her favourite dish. Help her to get dressed-up in a dress that is comfortable for her while dealing with her periods. Make sure that the colour of the dress that your daughter is wearing is dark and encourage her to ensure that her dress does not get stained.
Celebrate the Day
Make this day very special and a memorable day for your daughter. Help her to look at the bodily changes that take place in her positively. Encourage your daughter to move instead of just sitting at one place. You can take your daughter along with you to the place of her choice so that it can help her to relax. You can also celebrate the day when the menstrual cycle of that particular month is completed.
Parents must ensure that their daughter must complete the first cycle of her periods smoothly and happily. They must be encouraged to stay comfortable and positive during this period. Helping daughters to sail smoothly through their periods is one of the greatest parenting responsibilities. So, make sure that you make this experience a positive one.
What can parents do to help their daughters deal with their first periods? What kind psychological changes do girls experience when they get their first periods? What type of bodily changes do girls experience during their first menstrual cycle? Discuss here.
