A first period, or menarche, is a physical, emotional, cultural and spiritual event
Giving your tween a healthy, positive start with their menstrual cycle is beneficial in so many ways. Here are eight reasons why first periods matter:
Before you read the rest of these reasons, consider: why is this important to you? Whatever your answer, it’s at the top of this list.
Tweens and teens need to understand menstrual cycles like any other aspect of their health. Menstrual cycles are recognized as our 5th vital sign meaning they give valuable information about our reproductive and overall health. Also, an incomplete understanding of their menstrual cycle may place girls at risk for STIs and unintended pregnancy.
Tweens and teens need to learn what their normal cycle looks and feels like so they can recognize when something changes and communicate effectively with you and their healthcare providers like they would about changes or discomfort with their knee, digestion or mental health.
A first period is a memorable moment. The story we tell ourselves and others about this experience is incredibly meaningful and can shape a lifetime of experience with our menstrual cycle.
Negative feelings about menstruation are powerful. They can contribute to self-objectification, body shame, and a lack of agency in sexual decision-making.
First periods come at an influential developmental moment when reinforcement of social norms is particularly poignant. While growing up creates beautiful new opportunities for tweens to explore, the behaviors they adopt and the cultural context in which they live can set longterm trajectories for their health and well-being as adults. Unfortunately, shame, stigma and cultural taboos persist and our tweens and teens experience it.
Being connected to our menstrual cycle helps us live cyclically, in tune with nature, like all other living things on earth.
Menarche is a right of passage that shapes our experience of womanhood, especially impacting how we experience future rights of passage including first sexual experiences, childbirth, and menopause.
Moms are the most influential person in a tween’s life when it comes to learning about, experiencing and celebrating menstruation. You are in a powerful position to lead the way toward a less shamey and more open and meaningful experience.
You can give your tween a better first period than you had, an empowered relationship with her body, a meaningful growing up experience. You know yourself and your tween best. I come alongside with everything you need to get ready for your tween’s first periods — essential information, trusted resources, personalized support, opportunities for reflection, intentional action steps, and a community of like-minded moms. Let’s work together so you’re prepared, confident and ready to be your best self with your tween.
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