Experiencing your first period can be daunting, and having to inform your mom can amplify that anxiety. However, remember that your mom went through the same experience. Starting your period is a completely natural part of life, so there’s no need to feel embarrassed. This guide will cover ways to communicate with your mom both directly and indirectly, helping you overcome any nerves related to your period!
Key points to remember :
- Inform your mom about getting your period with straightforward statement such as “Mom, I’ve started my period.” Or casually initiate a conversation by asking, “What age were you when you got your period?”
- If you find it challenging to discuss directly, consider leaving a note on your mom’s make up vanity or in her handbag or sending her a test message.
- Maintain a relaxed and direct approach when discussing your period. Feel comfortable asking for advice or requesting period supplies, such as pads.
Section 1 of 3
- Request a private conversation with your mom. Whether you’re at school event or having a family night in the living room, make sure to set aside some time for a one-on-one chat with your mom. Don’s stress out!
Remember, she’s your mom; She’s been in your shoes before.
Approach the topic however you feel comfortable. You can start by expressing that you feel a bit uneasy but need to talk to her. Here are some opening lines to help you being:
- “Hey mom, I think I stared my periods.”
- “Can we go to the store? I need some things. I just started my period.”
- “This is hard for me to say, but… I started my periods.”
- “I just wanted to let you know I started my period and I have some questions.”
- Bring it up casually during your hangouts. If you’re nervous about a formal sit-down conversation, opt for a relaxed setting. You could mention it after seeing a pads ad on TV or casually bring it up on your way to school. Choose a time and place where neither of you feels rushed, allowing for an open and honest conversation. If you’re uncomfortable directly addressing it, try segueing into the topic by asking her when she got her period. Alternatively, weave it into a conversation about something unrelated. This will provide an opportunity to chat and unwind, allowing you to broach the topic when you feel at ease. For example, ask, “Did anything interesting happen at work todays?”
- Accompany her while shopping and suggest browsing the feminine hygiene aisle together. If you’re unsure how to broach the topic, let the environment guide the conversation. Guide her towards the feminine hygiene products in the grocery or pharmacy. Or request your mom to purchase online, and mention that you need to restock your period supplies for school. This provides an opportunity to seek her advice and tips for managing period discomfort, allowing her to understand your underlying message. For example. She might suggest using an electric heating pad to ease cramps.
- Feel free to ask your mom any questions you may have. Experiencing your periods signifies numinous changes in your body, which can feel daunting. Consider it an opportunity to strengthen your bond with your mom by being open and curious. You can inquire about her experiences, cravings, and how she handles symptoms. If your’re comfortable, you can also use this opportunity to talk about sexual health.
Section 2 of 3 :
Telling your Mom indirectly
- Write your mom a note.
If you’re not comfortable discussing it in person, that’s perfectly fine! Leave her a note instead. This allows her to start the conversation when you’re alone together. Place the note in a private location where shell find it, such as her handbag or make up vanity. Notes can be detailed or simple, such as : “Hi Mom, I stared my period today!” Maybe we could pick up some supplies at the pharmacy or grocery store later? Love you.” “Mom, I got my period. Could you please bring home some pads? Thanks!”
- Call her on the phone.
Use the same techniques and strategies as you would in person to tell your mom over the phone. This is especially helpful if you're at school and need fresh clothes or supplies so she can assist you. You could say something like:
- ”Hey mom, I’m in the nurse's office, and I got my period. Could you come get me?”
- ”I’ll be home in an hour. Maybe we can talk for a few minutes because I got my period.”
- ”Mom, I’ll be home a little late because I need to stop for some sanitary pads.”
- “Can we have chocolate cake for dessert? I’ve been craving it since I got my period!”
- Send her a text message.
If you find it easier, you can inform your mom via text. Although it’s less personal, it’s still effective! Use similar wording as you would in a personal letter, such as:
- “Just wanted to let you know I got my period. See you at home later!”
- “Can we talk later? I've started my period.”
- “Are you going shopping soon? I got my period and need some supplies.”
Period Info & Advice
- The menstrual cycle is the monthly shedding of your uterine lining.
The menstrual cycle is the monthly shedding of the uterine lining. At the start of the cycle, the body produces more estrogen, causing the uterine lining to thicken with blood and mucus.
- Simultaneously, the ovaries release unfertilized eggs, which are expelled along with the excess uterine lining, manifesting as the monthly period.
- During intercourse, sperm can fertilize the eggs and attach to the thickened uterine wall. Typically, children begin menstruating between the ages of 12 and 14, though it can occur as early as 8 or 9 years old.
- It's common to experience irregular periods initially. Generally, menstruation occurs every 21 to 35 days and lasts from three to five days, some people may experience it for up to 7 days.
Suggestions:
1. Understand your cycle: Keep track of your menstrual cycle to understand its regularity and changes.
2. Maintain hygiene: Use appropriate hygiene products (such as sanitary pads, tampons, etc.) and change them regularly.
3. Eat healthily: Maintain a balanced diet, ensure adequate nutrient intake to alleviate menstrual discomfort.
4. Moderate exercise: Engaging in moderate physical activity helps alleviate menstrual pain and discomfort.
5. Stay relaxed: Methods to relieve stress, such as meditation, yoga, etc., aid in smoothly navigating through the menstrual period.
6. Seek medical help: If experiencing abnormal menstruation (such as excessive bleeding, severe pain, etc.), consult a doctor promptly.
2) Research menstrual products to find the right fit for you.
Explore different menstrual products to find the best fit for your needs. With advancements in technology, there's a wide range of options available, including organic sanitary pads, menstrual cups, menstrual pants, period underwear, and both reusable and disposable pads. For beginners, reusable or disposable pads that attach to underwear might be more comfortable, while tampons and menstrual cups, though initially uncomfortable, offer convenience, especially for activities like sports or swimming.
- Consider discussing options with trusted individuals such as your mom, sibling, or friend, to gain insights into their experiences with different products.
- Menstrual products are readily available at pharmacies, grocery stores, and online retailers.
3) Control cramps with regular exercise, a healthy diet, and medication.
Manage menstrual cramps by incorporating regular exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, and using medication when needed.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) refers to symptoms that some individuals experience in the days or weeks leading up to their period. To alleviate discomfort, consider taking anti-inflammatory pain medication like Midol, specifically formulated for PMS relief. Engaging in activities such as yoga or walking regularly can also help reduce cramping and improve mood.
- To curb cravings, keep healthy snacks readily available and consider homemade options like rice with soy sauce for salt cravings or homemade hot chocolate instead of indulging in chocolate bars. Maintaining a balanced diet is crucial for managing PMS symptoms.
- Common PMS symptoms include depression, heightened emotional responses, cravings, fatigue, bloating, aches and pains, headaches, and tender breasts.
- If experiencing severe pain, consult your doctor to rule out conditions like fibroids or endometriosis. Your doctor may suggest treatment options such as birth control pills or a progesterone-secreting IUD for pain relief.
4) Prepare yourself mentally by relaxing.
Prepare yourself mentally by practicing relaxation techniques. It's essential to remain calm when you experience your first period, even though it may seem daunting—it's a completely normal part of growing up! Allow yourself the opportunity to adapt to the changes happening in your body. Consider taking a bath with Epsom salt to ease cramps, practicing meditation, or watching a comforting show to unwind.
- You can also use this time to express your thoughts in a journal. Write down any key points or questions you want to discuss with your mom.
- If you're not ready to talk to your mom yet, consider reaching out to a school nurse, doctor, teacher, or another trusted adult for support. It's helpful to seek advice from someone who has experienced it before, as they can provide valuable guidance.
TIPS :
- Monitor your menstrual cycle to anticipate your next period, identify missed ones, and for medical purposes.
- Soiled undergarments can often be salvaged. Simply rinse them promptly and launder them as soon as possible.
- Stay prepared by storing a feminine hygiene emergency kit in your locker.
- If there are menstrual stains on underwear, clothing, or bed sheets, you can try using salt, baking soda, and white vinegar. Sprinkle a spoonful of salt onto the stain, followed by some baking soda, and then pour on the white vinegar. You'll see the bloodstain dissolve instantly; wait for 5 minutes for it to soften. Afterward, hand wash with warm water.
- Consider giving your period a name in advance. Sharing this name with your mom can make discussing it easier. For example, you could say, "Mom, my friend Pink finally arrived, so could you pick up some things from the store?"
- If you unexpectedly get your period and it stains your underwear, consider showing it to your mom. Just showing her a small amount of blood can explain what happened without needing to say anything.
- Remember to change your pad every 2-4 hours for hygiene purposes.
Malaysia