Parents and girls may feel uncomfortable about the prospect of discussing menstruation. However, it is important that this conversation take place before a girl’s teenage years. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends discussing all the aspects of puberty with both boys and girls during middle childhood. Girls (and boys) who do not learn about menstruation from their parents may hear misinformation on the topic from peers or other sources.

Parents may find a natural opening to discuss menstruation when their daughter begins health lessons and sex education classes at school. Or, parents can discuss menstruation with their daughter shortly before a doctor’s appointment by explaining that the physician may ask whether she has started menstruating.

It is usually better to break the topic up into several conversations rather than simply trying to disclose all the information about menstruation in a single discussion. Dividing the subject matter will make it less overwhelming for the daughter who is trying to absorb this information. Parents are urged to ask their daughters what they already know about menstruation. Girls are likely to have questions of their own. For example, they may wonder when the menstrual cycle will begin and whether it will hurt.

Parents are urged to explain that no two girls experience their periods in the same way. Some begin having menstrual cycles earlier or later than others, and the menstrual cycle itself unfolds differently for each girl. Some girls have periods that last for a couple of days, whereas others experience a cycle that unfolds over the course of a week. Some girls lose just a few tablespoons of blood while others lose a half-cup or more daily. In addition, an individual girl may experience differences in her period from month to month. Parents can teach their daughter to keep a log or journal of her menstrual cycle so that predicting the next cycle is easier.

Parents are also urged to talk about the various feminine-hygiene supplies that are available, and about the need to carry these during activities such as school and social occasions. It is also helpful to explain that this new change to a girl’s body does not have to limit her in any way. Girls can continue to swim, play sports or engage in any other activities so long as they feel comfortable.

Discussing menstruation may be challenging for single fathers. Both fathers and daughters may feel uncomfortable about discussing such topics during a girl’s preteen years. In such cases, it may be helpful for a female family member to step in and explain menstruation and other such issues to the girl.

In addition, both the AAP and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend that adolescent girls see their primary care physician for preventive healthcare visits to discuss their reproductive health, and help establish an environment where they can feel comfortable discussing health concerns. Preventive health visits during adolescence can offer an opportunity for physicians to educate teen girls and their parents on what comprises normal puberty, menarche and the menstrual cycle.