What Should Girls Know About Their First Menstrual Period?

Currently, girls usually experience their first menstrual bleeding at around 12 or 13 years of age. For girls who are just starting junior high school, this can be a frightening experience due to lack of understanding. Therefore, it is crucial for mothers to promptly inform them of essential precautions. Menarche marks the gradual maturation of the uterus and ovaries, and female characteristics will gradually emerge. So, what should girls pay attention to during their first menstrual bleeding? Care should be taken in multiple aspects, including mindset, diet, lifestyle, and hygiene.

Here are some key points:

1. Proper Use of Sanitary Napkins - Families with girls should educate them on the use of sanitary napkins after menarche. It is important to wash hands before and after changing them as hands can carry bacteria. Direct contact with the sanitary napkin can increase the bacterial load, which may lead to harmful bacteria entering the body. Girls' bodies are particularly sensitive during this time, so extra care is needed.

2. Frequent Change of Sanitary Napkins - Girls should be reminded to change their sanitary napkins every two to three hours. Prolonged use can lead to oxidation of menstrual blood and bacterial growth due to contact with air. It is also important to store sanitary napkins in a clean, dry place, avoiding damp environments like bathrooms.

3. Cleanliness and Hygiene - Body hygiene is crucial during menstruation. Girls should be reminded to wash their bodies daily, especially during menstruation, to reduce bacterial growth and protect against gynecological issues. It is a common misconception that gynecological problems only occur in married women; unmarried girls can also experience them, so awareness is key.

4. Maintaining Warmth - Many women experience menstrual pain, often due to inadequate protection during menarche. Parents should advise girls to keep warm during menstruation, avoiding cold foods like ice cream and iced drinks. This helps reduce the entry of cold air, minimizing stimulation to the uterus and ovaries, and potentially reducing menstrual pain in the future.

5. Observing Menstrual Changes - Girls should be instructed to observe their menstrual cycles, noting the time of each month's arrival. A normal menstrual cycle is approximately 28 days, with menstruation lasting about 5 days. Menstrual blood should be similar to fresh blood in color, with a slightly darker tint. Menstruation serves as a barometer of overall health, and changes can indicate underlying issues. Girls should be taught to recognize these signs.

After menarche, girls' bodies undergo significant changes, and many may initially find it difficult to adapt. Parents should provide guidance on self-care, emphasizing the importance of avoiding activities and behaviors that could harm their health during menstruation.