Having  open conversations about periods should never be considered a difficult task. However, some parents struggle to break the ice with their kids. Firstly, the stigma around menstruation needs to be eradicated. Whether it’s against societal norms or derives from conventional shame affiliated with periods, parents must talk to their children about it. Here is how:

Step 1. Keep It Super Casual

If your 8 year old asks you about a pad they might have seen, don’t panic or shy away from the topic. Instead, offer them  awareness about sanitary napkins. Brief them that young girls go through periods each month after reaching puberty. They can then use tampons or pads or menstrual cups to assist them.

Step 2. Emphasize Its Importance

Parents must detail the necessity of  periods as part of the reproductive process and regulating the hormonal level. Ensure you create a safe environment where young girls can openly consult their family members about any changes or problems they are facing. This may even help in identifying any issue and save them from further harm.

Step 3. Refer Videos or Books

Oftentimes, parents are unable to accurately describe the usage of hygiene products. To increase
sanitary napkin awareness, consider using informative books, pictures, presentations and even a visit to a gynecologist. This ensures that girls are presented with credible information to avoid confusion during this phase.

Step 4. Encourage a Balanced Diet

Parents must instill confidence in girls and teach them that they can do whatever they want to do, even during their cycles. Periods do not inhibit someone’s daily routine. Teach them to maintain a healthy diet comprised of iron-packed food to avoid any deficiencies that may lead to fatigue or lack of focus. Ask them if they would like to binge on some snacks and provide it to them to cope with mood swings.

Step 5. Communicate With the School

Many girls skip school as they feel embarrassed due to the stigma around periods. To overcome this issue, you can encourage their school to increase awareness among students about menstruation. Consider asking the school to donate feminine products and conduct seminars. Ensure that proper facilities such as adequate water and disposable bins are available to avoid health problems.

Join Us in Supporting Menstrual Health and Empowerment

The above information should be invaluable to any concerned parent hoping to keep their daughters well-informed and supported during this critical developmental stage of their life.

We are Nishka Utpat and Kaanchi Utpat, two sisters who founded the 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity called Utpat Foundation. Our mission is to raise menstrual hygiene awareness and support young girls by providing access to essential products and education. By addressing issues such as sanitary napkin awareness, we empower girls to live healthier, more confident lives. To sponsor our initiatives or get involved, get in touch with us today!