Puberty marks a major transition in a child’s life, bringing both physical and emotional changes. One of the most significant changes for a girl is the onset of menstruation. This biological milestone signals the onset of fertility.

The first period, or menarche, is a big moment in a girl’s life. While it’s a natural part of growing up, it can also be confusing or even scary, especially if they’re unprepared. As a parent, you play a key role in shaping how your child understands and feels about menstruation. Being prepared as a parent isn’t just about stocking up on sanitary products; it’s about creating a safe, supportive space where your child feels informed, empowered, and never ashamed of what their body is naturally experiencing.

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Age of Menarche or First Period

Dr. Preeti Prabhakar Shetty, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Apollo Hospitals, Bangalore, shares insights on the onset of puberty in girls in a YouTube video for Apollo Hospitals, she says, “the average age for a girl to get her first period is around 12 years, though it can occur anytime between 9 and 16 years. The timing of puberty is influenced by a combination of factors, including genetics, environment, geographical location, socio-economic background, and body weight.”

Dr. Shetty explains that early puberty may sometimes be linked to being overweight or certain genetic conditions, while delayed puberty can result from underlying physiological or chronic health issues. In some cases, intense physical activity or excessive exercise can also delay the onset of menstruation.

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Signs Your Child May Be Approaching Their First Period

According to Dr. Shetty, puberty in girls progresses through distinct phases known as the Tanner Stages. She outlines these stages:

• Tanner Stage 1 (around 8 years): This is the pre-pubertal phase, where there are no visible physical changes yet, but hormonal activity within the body has quietly begun.
   
• Tanner Stage 2 (ages 9 to 11): Early physical signs of puberty start to appear. Girls may notice the development of small breast buds, which can feel itchy or tender, and the initial growth of pubic hair.
   
• Tanner Stage 3 (around age 12): Changes become more pronounced. Breasts grow in size, pubic hair becomes thicker and darker, and body fat begins to accumulate around the hips and thighs. Underarm (axillary) hair also appears, and girls often experience a growth spurt and skin changes, such as acne.
   
• Tanner Stage 4 (around age 13): This stage typically marks the onset of menstruation (menarche), signalling that the reproductive system is becoming fully functional.

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How to Have A Conversation About These Changes

• Use simple, age-appropriate language: Begin with the basics before puberty hits. Kids as young as 8 can understand that periods are a normal part of growing up and not something to fear.
   
• Keep the tone positive and neutral: Avoid making it sound like something unpleasant or embarrassing. Treat it as you would any other part of health or hygiene.
   
• Normalise the experience: Mention that it happens to millions of people every day and that everyone’s timeline is different.
   
• Invite questions, don’t wait for them: Kids may not know what to ask, so gently bring up the topic. Use books, anatomy diagrams, or even everyday moments (like shopping for pads) as conversation starters.

Related story: 10 Ways to Beat Bloating

What to Expect: Physical and Emotional Changes

The first period often comes with a mix of new sensations, some physical and some emotional. These changes are a normal part of the body adjusting to hormonal shifts during puberty. While every child’s experience is unique, here are some common symptoms to be aware of:

• Cramps in the lower abdomen or back
• Bloating and tender breasts 
• Mood changes or irritability
• Headaches or fatigue
• Acne or skin changes

How to Support Your Child

Bloating is the most common symptom of menstruation, according to Dr. Priyanka Sinha, Senior Consultant, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Apollo Multi-speciality Hospital, Kolkata. She suggests consuming a high-protein diet, which includes food like tofu, fish, and chicken, to prevent period bloating. Along with this, a high-potassium diet consisting of bananas, asparagus, and tomatoes is effective in eliminating bloating. Here’s how you can support your child during their period:

• Acknowledge their discomfort without downplaying it.
• Avoid comparing their experience to siblings or friends.
• Share your own (or others') first-period experience to build a connection.
• Help them track their cycle with an app or calendar (this gives them a sense of control).
• Validate their feelings and have a “low-mood plan” such as comfort movies, a favourite snack, or a relaxing activity.
• Offer heating pads, warm baths, or over-the-counter pain relief (after consulting a doctor).
• Allow them to vent and ask as many questions as they want to.

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Keep Period Products Ready

It’s helpful to have a small variety of products on hand so your child can choose what feels most comfortable:

• Pads: Great for beginners, easy to use and change.
• Panty liners: Useful for light days or as backup protection.
• Period underwear: Reusable and comfortable, especially for nighttime.
• Tampons or menstrual cups: These can be introduced later if your child is curious and ready.

Teach Product Use and Disposal

• Show them how to unwrap and place a pad securely in their underwear.
• Talk about how often products need to be changed—every 3–6 hours.
• Emphasise wrapping used products in toilet paper and disposing of them in a bin, never flushing.
• Help them feel comfortable asking questions or getting help if something feels off.

Make a ‘Period Kit’ for School or Outings

Pack a small pouch with:

• 2–3 pads or liners
• A spare pair of underwear
• A resealable plastic bag (for soiled underwear)
• Wipes or tissues
• A mini hand sanitiser

Teach Good Hygiene Practices

• Teach your child that daily showers or baths are fine, and yes, even during a period.
• Teach them to change products regularly to avoid odour or infections.
• Always wash your hands before and after changing period products. This helps prevent the spread of bacteria and keeps the genital area clean and protected.
• Cotton underwear and breathable clothes can improve comfort.
• Avoid using scented products near the vaginal area. Scented soaps, sprays, or wipes can disrupt the natural pH balance and may cause irritation or infections.

Navigating your child’s first period may feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation and a calm, open approach, it can become a meaningful bonding experience. Your support now will help them grow into confident, body-positive individuals who are unafraid to talk about their health.

Need all your wellness solutions in one place? A whole new world awaits just a click away.

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