There is something sensitive I want us to talk about this morning so we don’t make the mistake our parents made. I saw a post on Instagram yesterday asking women if they were prepared for their menstrual cycle by their parents. Many women expressed how clueless and embarrassed they were when it started. Some said they hid it from their mums because of fear of judgment.
Our daughters may see their periods as early as 9 years old and we may not even be there with them when it starts… so it’s best to be ready to help them navigate this phase rather than let it feel awkward. If you don’t teach them, the wrong people will. This is the 21st century, certain things shouldn’t be mysterious or awkward anymore.
HOW TO PREPARE YOUR DAUGHTER FOR HER FIRST PERIOD
1️⃣ Explain What It Is – Tell her in simple terms: “Every month, a woman’s body prepares for pregnancy. If no baby is formed, the body releases blood from the womb. It’s normal and healthy.”
2️⃣ Talk About Body Changes – Let her know she may notice breast growth, pubic hair, and discharge before her first period. This helps her feel prepared rather than confused.
3️⃣ Show Her the Products – Demonstrate how to use pads or tampons. Let her practice opening a pad so she’s not caught off guard.
4️⃣ Prepare Her for the First Time – Pack a small period kit (pads, wipes, extra underwear) in her school bag and explain that periods may start light or heavy, and that cramps and tiredness are normal.
5️⃣ Reassure and Empower Her – Tell her: “This is a sign your body is growing beautifully. You are not alone, and you can always talk to me.”
6️⃣ Teach Hygiene and Self-Care – Show her how to change pads every 4–6 hours, stay clean, and track her cycle.
7️⃣ Correct Myths and Keep Talking – Make sure she gets the right information. Don’t let menstruation be a one-time discussion—keep the conversation open.
Let’s break the cycle of silence. Our daughters deserve to embrace womanhood with confidence, not fear. Will you have this conversation with your daughter? 💕
#RaisingConfidentGirls
#MotherDaughterTalks
#PeriodsAreNormal
Written by
Ifedayo Bode-Salisu
