Talking To A Teen About Her First Period

Every woman remembers the first time she experienced a period. For some it was expected, but many others had no clue what was about to hit them. For those in the latter category, much of their fear and confusion have been prevented by having the right information from a source they trusted. Whether you are a parent, guardian, or loved one trying to help a teen through these changing times, it can help to talk it out with them along with the help of an OBGYN in Trinity Florida. Try this approach when it comes time to speak with them about menstruation.

Start Before The First Period Happens

While it might seem easier to approach the topic after it has started, you are better off having the conversation before anything has happened. Preparation is far more helpful than coming to the topic while it is occuring. Set aside a time and place that is good for the both of you. If possible, make it an enjoyable day bookended by time with friends or having fun with their favorite activities like sports or video games.

Stay Calm

It serves to reason that teens are as perceptive as adults about what is going on. Don’t try to come into the conversation as a bundle of nerves, instead approach it with openness and calmness.After all, this is creating a memory that will last a lifetime, so fear, annoyance, or any other negative emotion should be left at the door. Instead, focus on the positives of this life-changing moment.

Visit A Gynecologist Sometime After The Talk

A gynecologist can help you answer the questions that only a medical provider in the field may delve into. If possible, set up an appointment with a gynecologist that will be for yourself and the teen. Make sure to discuss that this is a first visit for the teen and you want the doctor to go over what to expect during periods as well as exams. For the exam, a doctor may go over what occurs during a normal appointment for adults, including pap smears and digital inspections. These will not be used at this exam, only talked about. Some doctors show the tools of their trade as well as materials related to the subject. This also gives the teen time to speak with the doctor about questions you might not have the answer to.

Listen

When talking to a teen about her concerns or ideas about this change in her life it is important to listen to them, not just be there to lecture.It is crucial to know what they think about all of this as you lead up to and get into talks with them about the subject. If you don’t know the answer to a question, say so. Above all, show them you care by offering someone there to listen to everything as they try to come to terms with the situation. More than first menstruation, it also signals a change in life from childhood into teenage years and adulthood.

A period can signal a changing time for teens. When it happens, give her the best information and guidance you can with these talking tips. They can help turn this time into something normal instead of fright-filled or unnatural. It lays the groundwork for a healthy love of learning and understanding the female body.