Lets Talk Periods to Teens - Boys and Girls

When your kids reach the age of "Whys" it can range from, Why is red red? to "Why is Daddy needed if baby grows inside Mommy?" I was asked this when my child was 5 years old and I had to buy time to answer this. That day I thought that I will be ready to answer questions about our body and changes to our body to my child. There is nothing embarrassing or dirty about it. So Lets talk Periods - Menstruation

How to talk about Periods to pre teen and teen girls?

• What's Happening: Explain that their body is changing and preparing for the possibility of having babies someday. A period is when the lining of the uterus sheds, resulting in blood.
• Physical Changes: Connect periods to other puberty signs like breast development, hair growth, and skin changes.
• When to Expect It: Explain that it usually starts between ages 10 and 16, but everyone is different.
• What to Do: Discuss various menstruations products like pads, tampons, menstrual cups, and period underwear. Show them how to use them (or provide resources). Talk about changing them regularly.
• PMS & Mood Changes: Briefly mention that some girls experience mood swings, cramps, or other physical discomfort before or during their period. Explain that this is normal and there are things they can do to feel better (exercise, healthy eating, rest).
• Hygiene: Emphasize the importance of washing hands and changing pads/tampons regularly.

Why is it important to talk about periods to boys?

• Discuss basic facts: Introduce the concept of periods as a monthly process where blood flows from the uterus. You can say something like: "When you start to get your period, it means your body is getting ready for puberty."
• Emphasize respect and support: Let them know that it's essential to be understanding and supportive of their friends or sisters who are experiencing menstruation. If your sister or mother is in pain offer a heating pad or comfortable cushion.
• Explain changes in physical appearance : Help them understand that periods are a natural bodily function, just like other physical changes during puberty (e.g., acne, hair growth).
• Importance of boundaries: Discuss how to respect others' personal space and not ask personal questions. If a girl tells about her period, it's important to keep that information private. Don't tell other people.
• Talk about puberty myths vs. facts: Address any misconceptions or rumors that may circulate in their peer group.
• Encourage open communication: Emphasize the importance of being approachable and willing to listen if their friends or sisters need to talk about something related to periods. Sometimes they might feel uncomfortable or grumpy, and it’s important to be understanding.

There are numerous resources available to guide the children as well parents and caregivers. Few are listed below

Books:

The Care and Keeping of You by Valorie Schaefer and Andrea Posner (Excellent for girls)

It’s Perfectly Normal by Robbie H. Goldstein (Good for both boys and girls, covers a wide range of puberty topics)

What's Happening to My Body? Book for Girls by Lynda Madaras

Kay's Anatomy: A Complete (and Completely Disgusting) Guide to the Human Body By Adam Kay and Henry Parker

Websites:

Planned Parenthood: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/

KidsHealth: https://kidshealth.org/