Period Questions Your Daughter Might Ask

For girls, the mystery of puberty brings with it a host of questions. It's difficult for tween girls to fully understand how their bodies will change when they go through puberty, and sex education class may not answer all the questions your daughter has.

Below are typical period questions girls ask when discussing menstruation. Review them so you can better prepare and answer all the questions she might have.

Puberty Questions Your Tween Daughter Might Ask

• When Will My Period Begin? No two girls are alike, and that means that your daughter will begin her period when her body is ready. There are certain signs that a girl is preparing for puberty, and may soon begin menstruating, such as pubic and axillary hair growth, breast development, growth spurts, mood swings, and changes in her body shape. Most girls begin menstruating between the ages of 12 and 13, but it's possible that a girl may not begin her period earlier or later. When a girl begins menstruating earlier or later than her peers, she may feel left out or awkward. If your daughter is self-conscious about when her cycle begins, be sure she understands that puberty is different for everyone. If you're worried that your daughter's development is off track, be sure to discuss the issue with your child's physician. Lack of menstruation by age 16 should prompt a visit.
• Will It Hurt When I Get My Period?: Many girls are afraid of menstruation because they've heard horror stories about cramps, headaches, and other issues. The truth is, your daughter may experience a few physical problems, such as cramps, soreness, headaches or backaches, but it's important for her to understand that the pain is usually minimal and probably won't last long. Even when it's not, there are many over-the-counter medications that can help relieve menstrual cramps. Also, reassure your daughter that heating pads and even exercise can help minimize menstrual problems. If your daughter develops severe cramps, it would be wise to consult her pediatrician for advice and treatment.
• Will People Know I'm Menstruating? Girls who are very shy or private may fear that others will know when they are menstruating. But if your daughter doesn't want anyone to know, then they probably won't, unless she tells them. Menstrual pads are thin, and can't be seen through clothing. You might also consider giving her a few stock responses she can use to reply when nosy classmates inquire about her personal experiences.
• What Will I do If My Period Starts All of a Sudden? Every girl worries that her period might arrive unexpectedly when she's at school, camp, or at a sleepover. Unfortunately, it's not always easy to determine when menstruation will begin. Help your daughter track her periods so she has an idea as to when they might begin. It's always a good idea for a girl to keep an emergency period kit on hand in case she's caught off guard. Be sure she has a kit at school, as well as one in her purse or backpack at all times. Menstrual underwear also has been a lifesaver for tweens worried about menstrual surprises. Plus, your daughter should be reminded that the school nurse will likely have hygiene supplies if her period begins unexpectedly at school.
• Can I Still Play Sports When I'm Menstruating?: Girls worry that menstruation might interfere with their everyday activities, but there's no reason your child can't participate in sports or other extracurricular activities just because she's menstruating. If your daughter can use tampons, she can even participate in swimming or water activities. However, if your child isn't comfortable using tampons, she will have to refrain from swimming until her period is over.​

Remind your daughter that she may need to change her pads more frequently when she's engaged in sports or physical activities.