Guide for the first period: how to approach this topic with my daughter

When my daughter told me she had her first period, a flood of memories from my own adolescence washed over me. I felt the need to guide her, and during my search for advice, I discovered period panties, an option I wish I had known about in my younger years.

Menstruation: A Step Towards Maturity Menstruation, often stigmatized, is a natural process and a step towards adulthood. I remembered the doubts and concerns I had and how, on many occasions, I felt overwhelmed.

Advice for Mothers: How to Discuss Menstruation with Naturalness and Empathy

Menstruation is a natural process that, unfortunately, has been wrapped in taboos and stigmas for a long time. As a mother, it's crucial to approach this subject with openness, empathy, and naturalness. Here are some tips on how to do it:

A. Create a Trustworthy Environment: Before talking, make sure the environment is conducive. Choose a quiet time, free of interruptions, and ensure both of you are relaxed.

B. Listen Before Speaking: Ask your daughter what she knows about menstruation and her feelings on the subject. Listening first will give you an idea of her knowledge and concerns.

C. Use Clear and Simple Language: Explain the menstruation process in a simple and straightforward manner, avoiding euphemisms that may confuse her. Emphasize that it's a natural occurrence that all women experience.

D. Share Your Experience: Tell her about your first period and the emotions you felt. This can help her feel less alone and understand it's a rite of passage.

E. Demystify the Subject: Ensure you talk about menstruation as something natural, not something to be ashamed of. Reinforce the idea that it's not "dirty" or "bad", but a regular part of being a woman.

F. Introduce All Options: Discuss the various ways to manage menstruation, from tampons to pads, and of course, period panties. It's vital she knows all options and finds what suits her best.

G. Be a Haven of Support: Make it clear you're there to answer any questions or concerns she may have in the future. Encourage her to come to you whenever she needs advice or simply someone to talk to about the subject.

H. Respect and Empathy: Remember everyone is different. If she doesn't want to discuss it at that moment, give her space and time, but ensure she knows you're there for her when she's ready.

Traditional Options When I was a teenager, pads and tampons were the primary options. Although effective, they have their downsides: tampons can be uncomfortable initially, and pads sometimes feel bulky.

Discovering Period Panties I recently came across period panties. They are underwear specifically designed to absorb menstrual flow. Some of their benefits include:

• Eco-friendly: They help reduce the waste of disposable menstrual products.
• Cost-effective: In the long run, they represent considerable savings.
• Comfortable: They feel like regular underwear and eliminate leakage concerns.

Why I'd Recommend Period Panties to My Daughter I want my daughter to feel comfortable and secure during her period. Period panties are easy to use, don't require insertion like tampons, and offer lasting protection against leaks. Moreover, by using them, she's adopting a more environmentally-friendly option.

Conclusion: Menstruation is a topic that, treated with care and love, can strengthen the bond between mother and daughter. Approaching the topic naturally and without judgment allows young women to feel more secure and confident during this important change in their lives.