Questions and Answers

Should my daughter "slow down" during menstruation?

You may want to reassure your daughter that there's no reason to curtail her activities when she has her period. In fact, regular exercise has been found to relieve cramps and minimize the bloating from water weight that some women experience at this time. Studies that compared women athletes and those who were not athletic found that the former experienced less menstrual discomfort. If you encourage your daughter to remain physically active and not to let her period interrupt her daily activities, she will have a better chance of remaining healthy throughout her life. If she does experience menstrual symptoms, they can be treated, but it's best not to teach her to expect them.


Can a diet or weight change affect my daughter's menstrual cycle?

When it comes to your daughter's weight, gradual losses or gains do not usually affect the menstrual cycle. However, crash dieting and poor nutrition can affect the cycle. It's important to stress the importance of good nutrition with your daughter; it will be important to her growth and development at this time and throughout her life. Additionally, most girls will not menstruate until they weigh 90 pounds.


The following represent some questions and concerns that your daughter might have about menstruation.

Will it hurt when I get my period?

You can let your daughter know that the experience varies among women, so it's difficult to describe to her exactly how it will feel. Some women experience cramps or discomfort, and others have no problem at all. Sometimes exercise can help to relieve cramps if they do occur. If your daughter does have a problem with cramps, a nonprescription pain reliever might help.


When will I get my period?

Menstrual periods usually begin between the ages of 9 and 16. The first period is called menarche. For the first year or two, periods are often irregular because ovulation occurs erratically and irregularly. In most cases, periods will become regular by the time a girl is eighteen.



What do I do if I get my period at school and the nurse isn't in?

Adolescent girls are often very concerned about menstruating for the first time when they are not at home. You'll want to give her some common sense tips about being prepared at school, at camp, or anywhere she might be at this time. Tell her she can keep a pad in her purse or in her locker. The school nurse has pads in her office. And tell her there are vending machines in many public restrooms.


Is it true that you can't take a bath when you have your period?

You may want to stress the importance of good personal hygiene at this time. You'll want to point out to her that it's more important than ever to take a daily bath or shower when she has her period. If she hasn't started using underarm deodorant, she'll want to do it now. Because her skin will become more oily, you may also want to introduce her to some other health and beauty tips and products at this time.


Will anyone know that I have my period?

As a parent, you already know how self-conscious girls can be at this age. When they begin menstruating, they are very concerned about accidents, and they're often nervous that menstrual pads will show through their clothes. You can assure her that no one needs to know that she is having her period because there are discrete products that she can carry in her purse or backpack. Again, you'll want to provide them with as much information as you can so that they are as comfortable as possible.

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The contents of this Web site are for informational purposes only and are not intended to be used for medical advice. You should consult your physician or health care provider on a regular basis. You should consult your physician immediately with any problem about which you are concerned.