Menstrual Hygiene Day was marked on the 28th of May, to highlight the importance of good menstrual hygiene management. Experiencing a first period is a significant milestone in a child’s life, often accompanied by a mix of excitement, anxiety, and curiosity. As a parent, your guidance and support during this time can make a profound difference in how your child perceives and manages their menstrual health. Here are some practical tips to help you navigate this journey with your child.
1. Start the Conversation Early
Initiate open and honest conversations about menstruation before your child gets their first period. Use age-appropriate language and encourage questions to dispel myths and fears. Explain the biological process in a straightforward manner, emphasizing that menstruation is a normal and healthy part of growing up.
2. Educate About Menstrual Hygiene Products
Introduce your child to various menstrual hygiene products, such as sanitary pads, tampons, and menstrual cups. Demonstrate how to use each product, and discuss the pros and cons of each option. Allow your child to choose the product they feel most comfortable with, and ensure they know how to change and dispose of these items properly.
3. Prepare a Period Kit
Create a period kit for your child to keep in their school bag or locker. Include essentials like sanitary pads or tampons, a spare pair of underwear, wet wipes, and a small disposable bag for used products. Having a period kit on hand can help your child feel prepared and confident, no matter when or where their period starts.
4. Promote Good Hygiene Practices
Emphasize the importance of maintaining good menstrual hygiene to prevent infections and discomfort. Teach your child to change their sanitary product every 4-6 hours, wash their hands before and after handling menstrual products, and bathe regularly to stay clean and fresh.
5. Discuss the Emotional and Physical Changes
Menstruation can bring about various physical and emotional changes. Explain that it’s normal to experience symptoms like cramps, bloating, mood swings, and fatigue. Encourage your child to communicate their feelings and symptoms, and offer strategies to manage discomfort, such as using a heating pad, practicing gentle exercise, or taking over-the-counter pain relief if necessary.
6. Normalize the Experience
Create a positive and supportive environment where menstruation is normalized. Share your own experiences if you feel comfortable, and reassure your child that having a period is a natural part of life. Avoid using euphemisms or treating menstruation as a taboo subject, as this can contribute to feelings of shame or embarrassment.
7. Provide Educational Resources
Supply your child with educational books, websites, or apps that provide reliable information about menstruation and menstrual health. This can empower them to learn more at their own pace and reinforce the knowledge you share.
8. Monitor and Address Concerns
Be attentive to any concerns your child may have about their menstrual cycle. Irregular periods, severe pain, or heavy bleeding may require medical attention. Encourage your child to keep track of their cycle using a calendar or a period tracking app, and consult a healthcare provider if they experience any unusual symptoms.
9. Encourage Open Communication
Foster an environment where your child feels comfortable discussing their menstrual health without judgment or embarrassment. Let them know that they can come to you with any questions or concerns, and that their feelings and experiences are valid.
10. Celebrate the Milestone
Acknowledge your child’s first period as an important milestone in their development. Consider celebrating this occasion in a way that feels appropriate and meaningful, whether it’s through a small gift, a special outing, or simply a heartfelt conversation. This can help your child feel supported and appreciated during this significant time.
By providing accurate information, emotional support, and practical guidance, you can help your child navigate their first period with confidence and ease. Your role as a parent is crucial in shaping their understanding and attitude towards menstrual health, ensuring they feel empowered and prepared for this new chapter in their life.
Additional Resources:
There are many resources available to supplement your guidance. Consider age-appropriate books, websites like U By Kotex®, or even period education apps.
Angela Wanja Gachago is a Marketing and Communications Specialist from Nairobi, Kenya. She is passionate about building brands and relationships using her skills and knowledge in the field of Communications, PR and Marketing. As a new mum, she brings new unique perspectives to parenthood and motherhood through her articles. Angela enjoys swimming and travelling during her free time.
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