The onset of puberty is a disconcerting time for parent and child alike. The average age for first periods, known medically as menarche, in the United States is 12-1/2 years, according to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services at its 4Parents website. How a parent reacts to the period is important. Pubescent girls might be alarmed or confused about what is happening to their bodies. Be ready to answer any questions she might have.
Preparation
Early preparation is vital. Because menstruation can begin as early as 9 years old, basic education of your child at an early age is advisable. The Mayo Clinic advises discussing menstruation with girls when they are preteens. It recommends that you discuss the subject in several small conversations instead of in one large one. To prevent being misinformed, she needs to learn about periods from a parent and not from her peers.
Body Changes
Your daughter's body will have started to change before her period. She will usually have developed breasts buds, grown some body hair and begun to perspire more. Educate her about what is going on with her body and why. She might feel tender or sore initially or throughout her period. A vigorous walk, a warm bath, a heat pad or a hot water bottle can help to soothe any aches.
How to Approach the Subject
When her first period arrives, be as gentle and as kind you can while remaining approachable. This is a difficult time for a parent. You might not want her to discuss it loudly or with others present but refusing to discuss it can cause her to become frightened or ashamed. Discuss her period calmly and matter-of-factly. She might be emotional or anxious due to hormonal changes. Don't get angry with her if she seems sullen or rude.
Things to Look Out For
Pain can sometimes be intense during menarche. If strong pain persists in the periods that follow, underlying causes might be present. Frequently heavy and painful periods that do not respond to painkillers can be an indicator of conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis or ovarian cysts. If she bleeds for longer than seven days, bleeds through pads or tampons quickly or is in severe pain, contact your family physician or nurse.
What She Should Know
Tell her that her body is preparing itself to be able to carry a baby and that the lining of her uterus is being purged to prepare for ovulation in the month after. Explain to her that his will last from three to seven days and, when her cycle regulates, every 21 to 28 days. Assure her that this is natural and happens to all women. It should also be gently stressed that she can get pregnant, which presents an opportunity to discuss contraception and abstinence.
