Houston OBGYN | Dealing With Your First Period

So many “firsts”  to look foward to in life…your first car, your first kiss, your first apartment.   I don’t know of anyone who looks foward to the first period.  Many “firsts” are choices we make but not this one.  This might be part of the reason it’s often feared.  Part of the anxiety is we’ve dealt with periods as long as we can remember and it can be hard to try to explain to your daughter what to do, what to expect and how not to freak out!  But go waaaaayyyy back in time and remember how terrified you were especially if you didn’t have the kind of mom that would explain everything for you.

If you are helping your daughter, niece or someone else you love with their first period, it’s helpful to keep a few things in mind tell this youngster:

1. Your symptoms may not be the same as your friend’s symptoms-everyone’s a little different
2. It may not be “regular” for several months
3. It hurts but it’s manageable – have a handy supply of ibuprofen
4. If you were a virgin before your first period, you’ll still be one even if you use a tampon (the things that will go through your mind!)

 If you are in the Houston area, contact Houston OBGYN  Dr. Lisa Otey at Greater Houston Gynecology for in-person help.