Supporting Your Daughter Through Her First Period: A Complete Guide for Dads

dad and daughter talking (3) As a father, one of your most important roles is to support your daughter as she navigates the various milestones of her life. Few experiences are as significant in a young girl's life as her first period. While it may seem daunting at first, providing the proper guidance, understanding, and support during this time can make all the difference in your daughter's journey into womanhood.

In this blog, we offer insights, advice, and practical tips on how to support your daughter through her first period, helping you become the caring, informed dad she needs during this crucial time. From understanding the biology of menstruation to discussing emotional changes, we have you covered.

Let’s dive in!

Understanding Menstruation

Menstruation doesn't have to be a taboo topic for dads, and talking about periods only has to be awkward if you make it awkward. Having a basic understanding of menstruation and its role in a woman's biology can help you become more comfortable talking about it with your daughter. The more you know about menstruation, the easier it is to address, eliminating unnecessary stigma.

What is a period?

A period, also known as menstruation, involves the shedding of the uterus lining, resulting in bleeding that typically lasts a few days to a week each month. It is most common for a girl to get her first period between the ages of 9 and 15. It’s also important to note that it’s common for a young woman to take about a year to get regular monthly periods.

Did you know there are four phases of the menstrual cycle? Learn what they are in this blog post!

Common Symptoms Associated with Periods

Understanding the common symptoms that accompany a period can help you prepare your daughter for what to expect each month. You can let her know the following symptoms are associated with periods:

Bleeding —Assure her that it's not an injury or something to be afraid of. It's a sign that her body is healthy and functioning as it should.
Cramps — Some girls experience mild to moderate cramps in their lower abdomen during their period. Lower back pain and aches are also common. Suggest using a heating pad or taking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as Midol, to help ease any discomfort. Always read the dosage on the packaging and ensure your daughter takes a safe dose.
Mood swings — Hormonal changes can sometimes lead to mood swings, and she may feel more emotional during her period. Reassure her that this is a common part of the process and that her feelings are valid.

Preparing for the First Period

Engaging in ongoing conversations before your daughter gets her first period can help her understand what is happening when the time comes. Small discussions about the experience rather than one formal talk, which can feel like a lecture, can make the topic more manageable.

You should also keep some menstrual products on hand at the house, such as pads, tampons, and period underwear. Having the options available can allow your daughter to test out what product she is most comfortable using.

When the time comes for your daughter to get her first period, it’s important to remember it may be a very emotional and uncomfortable experience for her. Avoid brushing off her feelings by saying, “Every woman deals with it,” or “You’ll be okay,” but listen to how she is feeling and let her know you are there to help in any way you can.

Make a period kit

Your daughter may feel anxious about experiencing her first period when she's away from home, like at a friend's house or school. To ease her concerns, consider assembling a travel-friendly period kit. It's as simple as placing a few sanitary pads and an extra pair of underwear in a zip-lock baggie for her to keep in her backpack. This way, she'll always be prepared.

Check out our comprehensive “My First Period Guide” for all the information you need to become a period expert!

Talk to Your Sons

Educating boys about this topic is important in removing the stigma associated with periods. If you have sons, talk to them about how periods are entirely normal and shouldn't be considered gross. If they have a sister going through puberty, it's also important to encourage understanding and discourage teasing. Acknowledge that periods can be challenging, and a little kindness and empathy can make a significant difference.

Empower Your Daughter

One of the best ways to support your daughter through her first period is to embrace the milestone positively. Rather than following the narrative of "something you'll have to deal with every month," tell her that it signifies an important step into womanhood and indicates that her body is healthy, which she should be proud of.

The following are ways you can empower your daughter during her first period:

Celebrate her getting her first period by buying her flowers, her favorite chocolates, or something else she loves. This gesture can show that you acknowledge and respect her growth, and it serves as a reminder that this transition is something to be embraced and celebrated.
Encourage your daughter to feel proud of her changing body and embrace her newfound identity as a young woman. Remind her that these changes are part of her unique journey and that she is becoming the incredible person she is meant to be.
Offer empathy and emotional support by actively listening to her feelings without criticism and acknowledging her experiences. If she mentions painful cramps, assist her in finding ways to alleviate the discomfort. If she seems sad or irritable leading up to and during her period, be a compassionate listener and help her explore coping methods such as journaling. Ensure you're a calming and dependable presence, ready to support her when she needs someone to lean on.

Moreland OB-GYN offers a full range of adolescent gynecological guidance and care. We are here to help your daughter navigate the complexities of womanhood. Learn more about our teen healthcare services here!

When to Seek Professional Guidance

Menstrual discomfort and mood swings are not uncommon. However, it's important to recognize when these symptoms severely impact your daughter's daily life. If her menstrual pain is debilitating, or her mood swings interfere with her ability to participate in regular activities, it may be a good idea to consult with her primary care doctor. They can help evaluate her symptoms, diagnose any underlying conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or Endometriosis, and provide the appropriate treatment to ensure her health and well-being. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can also help monitor her overall reproductive and menstrual health as she continues to grow and develop.

Knowledge is power! Learn about the different types of menstrual cycle problems here!

Creating a Bond Through Open Dialogue

Remember, your attitude and approach to discussing menstruation with your daughter sets the tone for how comfortable she'll be in sharing with you. By being informed, empathetic and creating a safe space, you can make these conversations a natural part of your relationship. With time, you'll find that talking about periods is another way to connect with your daughter.

Let your daughter know you're there to provide support, answer questions, and offer guidance. If you are unsure of any answers, tell her you can work together to find the right resources to help provide the answers she’s looking for.

Dads talking with daughters about periods doesn’t have to be taboo or awkward! Be supportive, patient, and open to starting the period conversation. You got this, dad!

Moreland OB-GYN Is Your Trusted Resource

Not all daughters may be instantly receptive and open to discussing their periods, even with the most well-intentioned and supportive parents. In such cases, it's important to guide your daughter towards the best resources available so she can explore and learn.

Here at Moreland OB-GYN, we're dedicated to serving as your trusted resource for all things related to women's health, including the often sensitive and sometimes challenging topic of menstruation.

Below is a list of resources to help your daughter learn about what's happening to her body as she transitions into womanhood so she can confidently embrace this natural phase!

Resources list: