1. period – how to talk about it?

mateja
July 6th, 2022
One Comment

There are topics that we are uncomfortable talking about, even though they are a normal part of our lives. This certainly includes the first period talk. Am I right?

Below you can find some useful tips that will come in handy during this conversation:

When is the right time to talk about menstruation?

Start the conversation as soon as possible. I definitely recommend that you don’t wait until the last moment and start talking about the changes the body goes through during menstruation only right before or even after your child’s first period.

Likewise, don’t plan just one conversation in which you’ll blurt out everything you know about menstruation. Start the conversation several times and each time introduce a different topic (body changes, period product alternatives…)

A positive view of menstruation

Although it’s 2022, society still views menstruation as something dirty and annoying. The key is to present children with menstruation in a positive light and emphasize that it is something completely natural and even beautiful.

Be concise

I don’t think teenagers are interested in long answers to already awkward questions, so keep your answers short, clear and point out the real facts. You can also share your personal experience.

Workshop

It might also be a good idea for a teen to visit a period workshop. A person who is no stranger to menstrual conversations creates a safe space where a group of peers can discuss menstruation in a positive light, while also addressing fears and shame and eliminating them with the help of appropriate education.

Some key pointers

Here, of course, you don’t need to present all the useful information at once. It will be enough if you start with tips such as: how to use e.g. inserts (you can also present different sizes).

Be careful to present these instructions in a positive light.

Of course, you can say that menstruation is often accompanied by a painful stomach, sensitive breasts… but also emphasize that there is a simple solution for these symptoms – a warm hot water bottle, herbal tea or (in more severe cases) painkillers