Helping with a Girl’s First Period

The first period can be an overwhelming experience for a girl, filled with questions and uncertainties. As someone who wants to help, your role is to provide comfort, accurate information, and a supportive environment.

What is menstruation?

Menstruation is the natural process where the lining of the uterus sheds because a pregnancy did not occur. It typically starts between ages 10 and 15, though earlier or later is also normal. This marks the onset of puberty and reproductive maturity.

Why does it happen?

It’s part of the menstrual cycle, which prepares the body for a potential pregnancy. The cycle involves hormonal changes, ovulation (the release of an egg), and, if fertilization doesn’t occur, menstruation.

Create a Comfortable Environment

• Be approachable. Let her know that she can ask you anything, and there’s no such thing as a “weird” question.

• Be empathetic. Validate her feelings - whether she’s nervous, embarrassed, or curious. Say things like, “It’s okay to feel unsure; everyone goes through this.”

Address Immediate Concerns

• Explain the basics of period hygiene:

  • Pads: Demonstrate how to use a sanitary pad and how often to change it (every 4–6 hours or when it feels heavy).

  • Tampons and Menstrual Cups: These can be introduced later when she feels ready. Highlight proper hygiene practices, like washing hands before and after insertion.

  • Disposal: Wrap used pads or tampons and dispose of them in a sanitary bin, never flushing them.

• Discuss symptoms: Explain that mild cramps, bloating, mood swings, or fatigue are normal. For severe pain or heavy bleeding, encourage her to talk to a doctor.

Provide Scientific Context

• The cycle: Most cycles last 28 days, but it’s common for them to vary between 21–35 days, especially in the first few years.

• Hormones: Hormonal changes (estrogen and progesterone) control the cycle and can also affect mood and energy levels.

• Flow variation: Flow can range from light spotting to heavy bleeding and may change over the first few cycles.

Equip Her with Essentials

• Create a “first period kit” with:

  • Pads (or other products she feels comfortable with)

  • A clean pair of underwear

  • Pain relief medication (e.g., ibuprofen) for cramps

  • A discreet pouch for carrying supplies

• Teach her to track her period using a calendar or app to monitor patterns over time.

Normalize the Experience

• Use empowering language: Explain that periods are a sign of health and that she’s not alone - half the world’s population experiences them.

• Share personal anecdotes: If appropriate, share your first-period story to build connection and reduce stigma.

Talk About the Bigger Picture

• Explain how periods relate to overall reproductive health and how they’re part of growing up.

• Mention that she may experience irregular cycles at first - this is completely normal and due to her body adjusting.

Provide Resources

• Books: Offer age-appropriate guides like "The Care and Keeping of You" by American Girl.

• Websites: Direct her to reliable sites like GirlsHealth.gov or Planned Parenthood.

• People: Encourage her to ask a trusted adult or doctor if she has further questions.

Encourage Open Conversations

Remind her that periods are nothing to hide or feel ashamed of. Offer ongoing support and remind her she can always turn to you. Celebrate this milestone with her if she feels comfortable - her first period is a sign of her incredible growth!