What Parents Need to Know
Recently, a lady and her daughter came to Bloom. The lady shared, “My daughter has attained puberty and she is just 9 years old.” She added that she herself had started menstruating when she was around 14 years of age. “Why is my daughter experiencing puberty at a much younger age? Should I be worried about her health?” she asked me.
As a mother myself, I understood the lady’s concern. However, as I told her, it is no cause for alarm. It is increasingly common to see girls attaining puberty at younger ages than before. Two generations (around 45 years) back, girls generally attained puberty at the age of 16. That age has come down to 8 to 10 years now.
What is the reason for this? Our altered lifestyles might hold the answer. We are eating more genetically modified foods (such as GM crops and poultry that has been fed with growth hormones). Also, with easier access to junk foods, aerated drinks and snacks, consumption of foods high in fat, sugar and artificial substances is on the rise. Add to this the fact that we are following more sedentary lifestyles, with little exercise at school and home. These lifestyle choices have impacted us on a physical level. One such consequence is that of girls attaining puberty at younger ages.
Whatever age it may be, puberty can be a confusing time for girls. It is important that parents support and guide their daughters through this period. Despite the plethora of information available, many parents seem under-equipped to have conversations about puberty with their daughters. As a doctor and a mother, I would say we need to talk to our daughters and give them the right information, so that they are not misled by wrong impressions shared by their peers. Here are some key points that girls should be educated on with regard to menarche.
Basics of menstruation: Parents could begin with simple topics. Talk about how many days a regular period cycle could last for. Touch on the gap between menstrual cycles (which may vary for different girls). You should also make them aware of possible period cramps and discomfort. Also, point out deviations such as very heavy or very light flow and irregular period cycles – and tell them to inform you if they experience any of it.
Hygiene: This is a crucial aspect, but is often not given sufficient attention. Show your daughter(s) how to use a pad properly, and tell them how often they should change it. Explain how they should maintain good physical hygiene. Gently insist that they come to you right away for help if they experience severe itching or discomfort in the vaginal area.
Sexual aspect: Many parents are aware of the need to talk about sexuality and ‘good touch’ and ‘bad touch’. This is especially important after girls attain menarche. It is also important to explain to girls about the changes their bodies are going through, and reassure them that it is perfectly natural.
If you need guidance on how to start, seek help from a medical counsellor or doctor. We are here to provide the support you need.
