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This article was co-authored by Cindy Basinski, MD. Dr. Cindy Basinski is a Board-Certified Urogynecologist based in Newburgh, Indiana. She has been practicing both general and Urogynecologic surgery for over 24 years and specializes in minimally invasive surgical procedures. She is a Board Certified Subspecialist in Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery from the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG). She received her medical degree from the Indiana University School of Medicine.
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The average age for a child to start their period is 9-16 years old. If your child has already started their period, or you think they're ready to learn about menstruation, the following suggestions may help.
Steps
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![Step 1 Relax.]()
Relax. Approach the subject in a casual and informal manner. Avoid treating it like a scary or embarrassing topic, even if it is so for you. You want to set a good example for your child and help them not feel ashamed of menstruating. -
![Step 2 Sit down with them at the kitchen table, or wherever you both feel comfortable.]()
Sit down with them at the kitchen table, or wherever you both feel comfortable. Ensure there is privacy before approaching the subject. Don't bring it up when you have guests over; that could be awkward for everyone.Advertisement -
![Step 3 Tell your kid what you're going to talk about.]()
Tell your kid what you're going to talk about. Let them know what the discussion is about, and why it happens. -
![Step 4 Tell them about vaginal discharge, too.]()
Tell them about vaginal discharge, too. Explain what it will look like when they get it. Tell them what's normal, and what's not. -
![Step 5 Tell them about pads and tampons.]()
Tell them about pads and tampons. Talk about when to use them and what you should use for discharge, too. -
![Step 6 Explain what Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is and how to avoid it.]()
Explain what Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is and how to avoid it. -
![Step 7 Do something fun once the chat is done.]()
Do something fun once the chat is done. You both can go out and have ice cream, or go out to eat.
Prepare Your Daughter for Puberty with this Expert Series
Community Q&A
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QuestionI'm 15 and I haven't started my period yet. Can you explain the link between menstruation and pregnancy? I'm too embarrassed to ask my mom.
Community AnswerOnce every month your body releases an egg and if it DOESN'T get fertilized (you don't have sex), your body gets rid of the egg, along with some lining from your uterus. That's the blood. If the egg DOES get fertilized (you have sex), you become pregnant. The egg is actually released 1-2 weeks before your period starts, and if you have sex during this time (called ovulation), you are much more likely to get pregnant. -
QuestionCan I get pregnant if my period hasn't started?
Community AnswerEven though you may not have experienced menstrual flow, it is possible to have ovulated or released an egg. Ovulation occurs approximately 2 weeks before typical menstrual bleeding. If this is a first period, a girl is still fertile or able to conceive/get pregnant around the time the egg is released.
Tips
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If you feel awkward during the talk, try to crack some jokes and smile to ease the tension.Thanks
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Give them a big hug before you start and after you're done.Thanks
Expert Interview
Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about menstruation, check out our in-depth interview with Cindy Basinski, MD.
About This Article
Medical Disclaimer
The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.
