It’s very important for parents to prepare girl children with the knowledge and facts to cope with puberty, says Mini P

Aplethora of recent studies have found that in several countries including India, the age of menarche or the first menstrual period in girl children, has fallen to nine-ten years. Therefore it’s very important for parents to prepare girl children with the knowledge and facts to cope with puberty.

“Girl children are attaining puberty at a younger age than ever before, and it can come as a shock for unprepared girls. Earlier, most girl children would get their first period around the age of 13. Now it happens between 10-12 years. Parents need to explain and prepare girl children for this inevitable coming of age phenomenon,” says Dr. Vasanthi Venkatesh, gynaecologist, Shraddha Clinic, Bengaluru.

Dr. Venkatesh suggests the following talking points for parents to begin the conversation about menstruation with girl children:

Menstruation
The sight of blood flow can be unnerving for 11/12-year-olds. You need to explain the reasons for blood discharge to your daughter. On attaining puberty, a girl child’s body releases an egg every month, in preparation of the uterus to implant it. If the egg is fertilised by a sperm, it causes pregnancy. You could explain sexual intercourse depending on the age and exposure of your child.
When the egg is not fertilised, the lining on the uterus wall breaks down and discharges blood. The menstrual period duration is usually three-six days. In the first few cycles, the duration can be much longer but soon settles.

Menstrual symptoms
Once a girl child attains puberty, the body produces several hormones that cause mood fluctuations. This may not happen to everyone every month but it could. Also, some girl children get cramps and pain in the lower abdomen, hips and legs, especially on the first two days of the period. If the pain is severe every time, it’s important to consult a gynaecologist.
Girls often complain that it’s not fair that they have to undergo the inconvenience of menstruation while male children get away lightly. Explain to them how boys also undergo bodily changes such as facial hair growth and voice change during puberty.

Sanitary napkins
Sanitary napkins come in various sizes and shapes. Some contain harmful chemicals. Opt for pads made of cloth or other eco-friendly material. Menstrual cups are the latest fad but they are made of silicone and not appropriate for children. You should arrange to keep an extra sanitary pad in her school bag, or elsewhere so that it is easily accessible any time. Also advise washing the vagina with plain water, is sufficient hygiene. Avoid using commercial vaginal cleansing products.

Physical activities
Though menstruating girl children are healthy and fit to pursue all routine activities, it’s advisable to avoid strenuous physical exercise during the first two days of the period.

Also Read: Precocious puberty fears