The first blood…
A girl’s first period is notably a celebration in some parts of India. The Indian tradition of celebrating the first period marks the girl’s transformation into a woman. However, the first period can anywhere start from 9 years to 15 years, which is considered a normal age to start. But, with the celebration, comes the fear to see blood for the first time. Apart from the fear, there are visible body changes seen in the girl. That’s where the word “Puberty” arises when the young body goes through many changes and kids are moved towards adults. During this phase of life, the body develops faster than at any other time in life. Many noticeable changes are visible in the body and every kid has gone through puberty. Every kid will experience different changes in their body. Kids may also see a quick growth like the sleeves are getting shorter and tighter, pants may fit tighter, unavailability of your clothes sizes etc. It’s the most difficult stage in any girl’s life.
Therefore, it is very important to educate young girls about Periods & Puberty from the very beginning, so that when the time arises, they are prepared for it to see and experience the bodily changes they are going through. Not just bodily but the face and skin also see major changes. Many kids suffer from pimples growth and oily skin problems. All of these are alarming signs of puberty and the sooner we educate our kids the sooner they will start accepting the reality during their growing years. Talk about it with your little one will help them ease their anxieties about puberty and periods, just by saying it's normal & educate them by teaching them what causes girls to bleed every month. Start helping them with preparing a period kit for her and keep it in her school bag so she feels safe even if her period starts uninvited. And lastly, show her how to use a sanitary napkin or a tampon or a menstrual cup.
