Ask what she knows about menstruation before she gets her first period. Be gentle and use humor to diffuse any awkwardness. “You’re getting older now and pretty soon your body’s going to start changing. Have you ever heard of something called your period?” “Have any of your friends ever mentioned a period, or menstruation?” “I know, I know, you’re thinking, ‘Mom, this is soooo awkward!’ We’ve gotta talk about it, though!” Clarify any wrong information. “Actually, it isn’t blood that’s coming out, it’s the lining from your uterus. I can explain what that is for you in a bit.” “You can’t tell when anyone’s going to get their first period, actually. It happens at a different time for everyone, and it’s usually about 2 years after your breasts start to develop, but that’s not exact.” Explain the basics of what happens biologically. “When you start your period, or start to menstruate, it means that your body is physically able to get pregnant.” “Basically, every woman has a cycle, which is about a month long. In the first part of the cycle, your uterus grows a thick lining that’s meant to nourish an egg if you get pregnant. If you don’t get pregnant, though, your body needs to get rid of that lining, so it flushes it out.” “What comes out is a mixture of blood and fluid. It’ll mostly look red, like blood but it could also look kind of brown.” Focus the conversation on practical advice and tips. “Your first couple of periods will probably be pretty light. You might get just a few drops of blood.” “Your period can last anywhere from 2-7 days, but most people’s are around 3-5.” “You might’ve heard of period cramps, which are a pretty common symptom. It just means that you feel achy in your lower abdomen. Some other things you might feel are headaches, dizziness, and tenderness in your breasts.” Explain what she’ll do when she gets her period. “When you get your period, you can use pads, tampons, or menstrual cups so you don’t stain your underwear or clothes. I’ll buy you some and show you how to use them, and you can store a couple in your backpack or locker in case you get your period at school.” “We can try out a few different kinds of products and go with whichever one you like the best.” Reassure her if she has any concerns. “Everyone starts their period at a different time. It’s OK if your friends get it first, or if you get it before them.” “Your cycle will probably be pretty irregular when you first get your period, and that’s normal. If it’s really bothering you, or you’re getting bad cramps or anything like that, just come talk to me.” Let her know she can ask you any questions about it. “You can always come talk to me if you’re worried about anything, or just have any questions.” “I know this is a lot of information and you’re probably feeling overwhelmed or confused. Do you have anything you want to ask me?”