Menstruation is important body function, just like any other, say respiration or digestion. Yet often, across the world, discussing it openly has an element of discomfort or shame. When you think back to the last couple of generations, even educating daughters about periods was done just after they got their period or their friends got it or they heard of it in school and had the courage to ask their moms. Sex education in schools too was not heard of, in-fact chapters related to the reproductive system were often skipped or given for self-study.

Things are much better now, with so much awareness. Parents are becoming more and more proactive when it comes to discussing sensitive matters with children and this is a wonderful change. Here are some tips for parents, to start discussing periods with their daughters as well as sons.

Discussing periods and puberty with our daughters

There is no right or wrong time to discuss periods with your daughter, but generally anytime after 8 is when they are understanding and more conscious of themselves as well as their surroundings. As a parent, you will be able to pick up these signals where you can see their transformation. Also, if they have heard about it from their friends and ask you about it, then that is the time when you must discuss it rather than put them off or change the topic.

1. Explain to them about the body parts, different systems in the body and their functions.
2. Then talk a bit more about the reproductive system. Talking about this would vary depending on the age of your daughter, and what helps is discussing it progressively and giving information that they would be able to comprehend as per their age
3. Tell them about hormones and how they are responsible for different body functions
4. Talk to them about physical changes that would occur once the body starts producing these hormones.
5. Explain to them about sanitary pads, panty liners and maintaining hygiene during periods and otherwise.

Wikihow explains in detail about explaining puberty and periods to your daughter.

Discussing periods with our sons

While there is so much discussed on talking about periods with our daughters, talking about it with sons is often not thought of. Boys usually would get their information either observing their mothers and sisters or through friends – and mostly this information would be incorrect or partially correct. Discussing periods with guys used to be a forbidden thing and I remember many of my friends were prevented to use the “P” word in front of their father and brothers. To make sure we get rid of the taboo associated with menstruation, as well educate our sons correctly about periods and be sensitive to those around them, talking to them about it is essential.

1. Start by explaining to them about the body parts, different systems in the body and their functions.
2. Move on to talking about the reproductive system and how it varies in boys and girls
3. Talk about how women are the ones who carry a child in their womb and give birth
4. Explain about the function of the uterus, how the lining is thickened every month and that if a woman doesn’t have a baby inside, the uterus no longer needs the thickened lining created that month. The lining dissolves and is dispelled through the vagina as blood
5. Explain to them about the discomfort and changes girls experience
6. Make them understand that it is a natural process and nothing to make fun of or be weird about

Wikihow explains in detail on discussing periods with boys/sons

First period kit

Preparing your daughter before her first period is important. Having a small kit ready to carry along with her in case she may not be at home when the first period shows up is very helpful. This would help her be more confident as well and better prepared for her period.

Take a small pouch with the following essentials

1. Sanitary napkins – demonstrate to them how to use a sanitary napkin and let her try it on a couple of times before she actually gets her period
2. Panty liners – often months or weeks before the first period appears, the vaginal discharge increases. These would help her maintain hygiene. Again show her how these are used
3. An extra pair of panties
4. A change of clothes (could be an extra school uniform when she carries the kit to school)
5. A garbage bag to keep the stained panties/ clothes
6. An intimate wash
7. An antifungal/ anti rash powder
8. A chocolate bar 😊 just to lift up her spirits

Being open and approachable is the key to help our children through puberty. They should be comfortable coming to us parents with any questions they might have and discussing their doubts and fears with you. And as parents, we need to be able to explain to them and talk to them without feeling uncomfortable or awkward. This 2-way communication is what will make puberty, periods and the transition easy for children, at the same time not be a taboo or something they are ashamed of.

“This post is for #OpenNTalk Blogger’s League hosted by @Gleefulblogger & @Wigglingpen in association with wonderful sponsors –  SummerBarn, Vedantika Herbals, Nyassa, Explore Kids World.”

Feature imagecourtesy:: oddnaari.in,