Menstrual Health for Parents: 5 Things to Teach Your Child About Menstruation

Menstruation isn't often included in health classes!
Health education does not usually include information about menstruation and the menstrual cycle. Learn how the menstrual cycle works, talk with your young people about the different phases and how to take care of themselves, whether they will menstruate or not. Talking to boys about periods too also helps them understand what their peers are going through and how they can create more safe and supportive environments for menstruation at school or in other peer spaces.
1. Here is a great video for parents to start their own education: The science of menstruation in 10 minutes.
2. This animated video, 'Flowing with Confidence', is great for kids!
3. Check out the Minnesota Menstrual Products in Schools Parent Guide for menstrual cycle information or some of these other video resources!
4. If you want an overall guide with everything you need to know, look here: Introduction to Menstruation Curriculum Slides!

Irregular cycles are common!
Young students often have irregular cycles in the early years post menarche (the start of having a period). As such young students in elementary and middle school may not know when to expect their period and should be prepared with menstrual product kits in their backpacks or other safe places. Not having a regular cycle can be frustrating especially while moving through puberty but is totally normal!

Products matter!
Emphasize product options and specific care practices (such as how often to change pads) to teach product safety and promote healthy habits. Menstruation is a normal healthy process, but it is important to change menstrual products often to avoid health issues.
Need a refresher yourself?
1. Tampon: Change every 4-8 Hours
2. Pad: Change every 4-8 Hours
3. Menstrual Cups: Change every 4-12 Hours
4. Wear time for other reusable products like Period Underwear, Menstrual Discs, and other products vary, so check your specific product's instructions.

Menstrual pain is very common but often comes with stigma!
Rather than telling students to “just deal with it,” validate and try to understand their symptoms. Common symptoms before or during the menstrual period include headaches, back pain, cramping, changes in mood, breast tenderness, or feeling extra tired. If students' symptoms are interfering with their ability to go to school and participate in regular activities this should be addressed with a medical professional to discuss treatment options and screening for common menstrual health conditions.

Cultural differences affect menstruation practices!
We know that different families and cultures have different ways they talk about periods and use products related to menstruation. Take this opportunity to talk about what you want your young people to know! Menstruation is an important step in adolescence and building a safe and supportive environment to have conversations about menstruation can set up young people for comfort in other conversations about their bodies, health needs, and relationships in the future.

I encourage parents, teachers, and students to learn more about the Minnesota Menstrual Products in Schools Toolkit & more through Honest Sex Ed Minnesota’s Free Resources Page!