Girls typically experience their first period between the ages of 8 and 17, with most occurring around 12 years of age. While there’s no specific age at which to discuss periods with children, they can start as early as 8 years old. It’s important to talk to girls from an early age to ensure they’re prepared.
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The Clinical Lead for Women’s Health and Bupa GP, Dr Samantha Wild suggests, “By age 7, most children can understand the basic concept of periods, so this could be a good time to talk with them about it.”
For any parent, approaching the topic of menstruation can be a daunting task – you might worry you are broaching the topic too young or have concerns about whether you’ve covered all the necessary topics. Here, the team at Evana present the need to knows on how to talk to your children about periods.
Focus on the experience, not just the science
Firstly, it’s important to build a fundamental knowledge of menstruation, where preparation for the experience of a period is made.
“Every person’s first period is unique. It is important to understand that by educating your child about the experience, you can prepare them for the symptoms they might experience and identify if something is not right.” says Anna Maxwell, founder and CEO of Maxwellia, Evana’s parent company.
Through educating children on the basics, you can prepare them for the symptoms that come from periods, such as cramping, acne breakouts, and bloating. When they are properly informed, girls who then have their first period are less likely to be distressed or alarmed and may feel more comfortable speaking to a trusted adult about receiving their first period.
A product rundown
The duration of a period and the preferred sanitary product are prescriptive to each person. It’s important to discuss an overview of products, how to manage symptoms and what to do if you feel that symptoms may need medical attention.
“Other topics you might want to discuss with your child include how long a period lasts and how often they occur, how period symptoms can be managed and what period products are available such as sanitary pads, tampons, menstrual cups and period underwear.” says Maxwell.
Educating boys
Educating boys about periods might also be something to think about. While they won’t experience menstruation themselves, normalising the topic helps foster empathy, understanding, and reduces stigma. By talking to boys early on—whether at home or in school settings—you help shape a more supportive environment for girls.
Explain what periods are, why they happen, and that they’re a sign of a healthy, functioning body. Encourage respectful language, challenge myths or teasing, and teach boys that being informed isn’t just ‘for girls’—it’s part of being a kind, respectful person.
Opening the door to these conversations, regardless of your child’s gender, ensures they grow up equipped with body literacy, compassion, and the confidence to ask questions without shame.
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