Breaking the taboo: supporting teens through their first periods

Talking about puberty and menstruation with teenagers is more essential than ever. Between persistent myths, cultural embarrassment, and silence passed down through generations, many young people go through these major changes without the guidance they need. However, understanding what is happening in their bodies, being able to ask questions without shame, and receiving honest answers profoundly transforms how a teenager experiences this stage. When adults dare to open the conversation with kindness, realism, and respect, they create a safe space where the body becomes an ally rather than a source of worry. This article offers concrete ways to establish this dialogue, break taboos, and support young people toward a more serene, confident, and informed relationship with their reproductive health. 

Essential information about periods and puberty 

When addressing the onset of menstruation, explain that it is a natural and healthy function. Nearly 68.6% of women have their first menstruation between 11 and 13 years old¹. 

Changes related to puberty 

 Puberty is the body's preparation for adulthood, which includes breast development, pubic hair, and hip widening. Encourage teenagers to treat their bodies with gentleness and kindness throughout these stages. 

 The menstrual cycle 

 Explain that the cycle prepares the body for a possible pregnancy. It begins with menstruation, continues with ovulation (egg release), and ends with the premenstrual phase. The uterine lining (endometrium) is expelled through the vagina if no pregnancy occurs. A cycle usually lasts between 21 and 35 days, with bleeding lasting two to eight days. It is normal for periods to be irregular during the first few years. Explain that menstrual flow is not just bright red blood, but a mixture of tissue, blood, cervical mucus, and vaginal secretions. It can be reddish-brown, dark, or contain clots (which is normal). The total amount of fluid lost is usually small (about four to six tablespoons). 

Menstrual pain 

 Cramps occur because the uterine muscle contracts to shed the lining. Heat (hot water bottles, warm baths) and physical activity such as walking or stretching can be recommended to relieve pain. It will also be important to prioritize 7 to 8 hours of quality sleep, an essential element to help stabilize the hormones that regulate stress response and the menstrual cycle.  In cases of severe or debilitating cramps, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. Painful and distressing periods (dysmenorrhea) affect 50%-90% of menstruating adolescents and are the leading cause of recurrent school absenteeism in this group², with one-third of menstruating adolescents missing school or avoiding sports activities due to dysmenorrhea.³ 

Strategies for open communication 

Be honest and direct  

 Avoid euphemisms and acknowledge that puberty can be chaotic, but it is a natural, powerful, and empowering process. 

Start early and stay open 

 Address sexuality and bodily changes early to maintain open and non-judgmental communication. Conversations should evolve as the teenager matures. 

Model positive attitudes 

 Share information while conveying that the body is incredible and periods are a sign of good health. Be thoughtful when calmly discussing your own frustrations, if any, to show how difficulties can be resolved positively. 

Listen and validate emotions 

 Recognize that hormonal fluctuations cause mood and energy changes, making mood swings and irritability normal. 

Practical tips and self-care 

Here are concrete tips that help teenagers manage their periods with confidence: 

Cycle tracking 

 Use a calendar or app to track cycle length, flow, and symptoms to better anticipate menstruation. 

Menstrual products 

Present different options (pads, tampons, cups) and keep several choices accessible at home and in their bag. 

Hygiene 

 Emphasize the importance of washing hands before and after handling products, wiping from front to back, and avoiding scented products or vaginal douches. 

A time of renewal 

Encourage rest, nourishing food, and gentle activities to experience periods as a beneficial time of slowing down. 

Natural solutions 

Alternative and complementary therapies, recognized for their milder side effect profile, have been gaining increasing interest in recent years, especially for individuals under 18. These therapies may include acupuncture, nutritional therapies, and herbal products⁴.  

Among herbal solutions, sweet fennel is one of the most commonly recommended for painful menstruation⁵.