How do I explain menstruation to my daughter?

TL;DR: The first period is an important step for girls. Parents should address the topic of menstruation early and openly, allay fears and build trust. Tips for education, period products and practical help for everyday life make the transition easier and promote your daughter's self-confidence.

The first period, or "menarche," is a big step in every girl's life. It marks the beginning of puberty and the onset of sexual maturity. At the same time, it brings with it questions, uncertainties, and fears. As a parent, you can lovingly accompany this transition. Explain menstruation to your daughter in a natural and supportive way so that she feels safe and confident in this phase of life.

The female body is a miracle that you should celebrate together

When and how you should start educating your daughter

Don't wait until your daughter's first period to talk to her about it. The earlier the topic is gently introduced, the more naturally she will be able to handle it. You can casually mention what pads, tampons or other period products are, or use your own menstruation as a conversation starter. By sharing your experiences, you will make your daughter feel that periods are something completely normal. 

Trust is created through honest and sensitive conversations

You can have your first conversations with your daughter as early as 8-10 years old, as puberty often starts earlier these days. Many girls have already noticed the first physical changes by this time and are curious. It is important that you answer their questions in an age-appropriate manner and do not give too much information at once. Let your daughter set the pace. 

What you should explain exactly: Menstruation and the cycle

It is important to explain to your daughter in simple terms what happens in the body during menstruation. A simple formulation could be:

"The uterus is a part of the abdomen that prepares for a baby every month. The body builds a soft layer called mucous membrane in the uterus. This mucous membrane would protect the baby if a woman becomes pregnant.

But if no baby is born, the mucous membrane is no longer needed and falls off. This happens during menstruation. Blood and parts of the mucous membrane come out of the vagina. This is completely normal and shows that your body is healthy."

Later, it is also helpful to explain the female cycle as a whole. Make it clear that menstruation is part of a larger process. You can explain that hormones such as estrogen and progesterone not only affect menstruation, but also mood and energy levels.

For even more in-depth information, you can also recommend our blog to your daughter. We make sure that everything is explained in an easy-to-understand manner.

Period products: Which ones are there?

Nowadays there are a variety of period products. It is important to explain these choices to your daughter. In addition to the classic pads and tampons, there are also menstrual cups and period underwear. Show her that it is perfectly normal to try different products until she finds what she feels most comfortable with. Prepare her for this by having different products in the house so that she has the choice.

It's also helpful to explain to your daughter how and when to change different products, and what the benefits and drawbacks are. This will give her the confidence to decide for herself what works best for her. 

Practical tips for your daughter's everyday life

A small emergency bag with period products for school will also give your daughter peace of mind. This will make her feel prepared if her period starts unexpectedly. This bag could contain sanitary pads, tampons or period underwear as well as wet wipes and a spare pair of panties.

Also discuss possible questions: How often should I change my pad or tampon? What do I do if I get my period while I'm out and about? Such practical tips take away a lot of uncertainty. 

Emotional support and self-confidence

Menarche , the first period , can be emotionally overwhelming. It is important that your daughter feels that menstruation is not something to be ashamed of, but a natural part of becoming a woman. Encourage her to appreciate her body and be proud of it. Self-love and self-acceptance should be the focus here. #PeriodPride

By showing your daughter that you are open about the topic, you will boost her self-confidence. Girls who feel that they can ask their questions at any time tend to be more confident about their menstruation. 

Menstruation myths and prejudices

There are many myths surrounding menstruation that your daughter may have heard. A common myth is that you shouldn't exercise during your period - that's not true!

Many girls also fear that menstruation is "dirty". You can clear up such misunderstandings and show that menstruation is a completely natural process. Read our article about the 5 biggest menstruation myths .

Menstruation and School

Many girls worry about how to deal with menstruation at school. Prepare your daughter for what to do if her period starts unexpectedly. She should feel safe and know that it is OK to ask a teacher for help. A small bag with period products and a spare pair of panties will give your daughter peace of mind, even at school.

Every change brings new strengths  

Health and nutrition during menstruation

Explain to your daughter that a healthy diet can help her feel better during her period. Certain foods, such as chocolate or sugary snacks, can make menstrual cramps worse, while fresh fruits, vegetables and teas support the body. Exercise can also help relieve cramps.

Role of the father in educating the daughter

It is important that fathers are also involved in educating children about menstruation. They can show their support and help to remove the taboo surrounding the subject. Show your daughter that her father is just as open and understanding about the subject. This way she will feel supported and understood in her family.

Dealing with periods in different cultures

Also tell your daughter how menstruation is treated in different cultures. In some cultures there are even rituals that celebrate menarche, the first period. Such stories help to demystify the topic and present it as a normal experience. Discover curious facts about menstruation .

Cycle apps and tools for cycle tracking

Cycle apps like "FLO" or "Clue" are a good way to better understand and track your own cycle. Using one of these tools, your daughter can prepare for the different phases of the cycle and plan when her next period will come. This will help her to understand her body better. In the next section, discover our recommendation for a "magical menstrual calendar". 

The best books and tips to educate girls about menstruation

Here are some book recommendations and a menstrual calendar for your daughter. With these recommendations, your daughter can discover menstruation in a positive and easy-to-understand way:

"Courage to Blood: Everything You Need to Know About Periods" by Chella Quint

This modern educational book by Chella Quint deals with the topic of menstruation in a comprehensive and de-stigmatizing way. With a humorous and sensitive approach, it offers young readers everything they need to know about the female cycle, period products, cycle phases and their own well-being during menstruation. The inclusive perspective that the book offers is particularly valuable - it is informative and promotes self-love and a positive body image. Great for girls aged around 9-10!

"Peggy's Period Project - Paint it red" by Franziska Höllbacher  

In this book, Franziska Höllbacher explains the topic of menstruation in a relaxed and uninhibited way with humorous comic elements. She clears up embarrassing situations and explains the different period products and the cycle in an understandable way. The book is ideal for girls who want to discover their menstruation without shame and learn more about how to deal with their period. Suitable for girls aged around 11-15.

"From Girl to Woman: A Fairytale Book about Menstruation" by Nicole Schäufler  

The book accompanies young girls aged around 8-11 through puberty with a romantic picture story. Nicole Schäufler explains the cycle and menarche, i.e. the first period, in a fairytale-like and loving way. The book helps to understand menstruation as something natural and positive.

In addition, "As a rule, wonderful: a magical menstrual calendar" by Nicole Schäufler offers a fun way to track your own cycle. With the calendar, girls become aware of their menstruation and can document the different phases of their cycle.

These books and the calendar introduce girls to menstruation in an understandable, positive and playful way.

Conclusion: A positive view of menstruation  

A positive attitude towards menstruation is crucial. Show your daughter that periods are not a flaw, but a sign that her body is healthy. Through open discussions and practical support, you will strengthen her self-confidence and help her to deal with her menstruation in a relaxed manner.