How to Explain Menstruation to a Boy
Do you want your sons to be more respectful, compassionate, empathetic, kind, less sexist to understand bodies, not just their own and have respectful relationships in the future?
Well, it can start with the way that we express our values, attitudes and beliefs with our family, particularly to our sons about periods. In my ‘Amazing Me’ programs it wasn’t long ago that I separated boys and girls and I never talked much about periods at all with boys. Most of the time now it’s co-ed, thank goodness, and I also talk about periods at single sex boys schools too. (their reactions are quite hilarious to tell you the truth).
As a parent, you may be wondering how to explain a period to a boy. There are many ways to approach to explain menstruation with to your son and tips to make the conversation easier:
Use natural everyday conversations
The opportunities are everywhere, the way that you react and what you say about periods can determine if they think it’s shameful or that it’s okay to put women down.
Be proactive
When they are looking for something in a drawer, pick up a pad and say do you know what this is?
Don’t put yourself down
Don't say things like I’ve got my period, it’s gross and disgusting.
Start conversations early
The earlier you talk about periods the better so that your children grow up understanding that they are natural and normal.
Prepare them
Tell them what is happening in your cycle and what the physical and emotional symptoms are.
Get educated yourself
Find out the right information about the menstrual cycle and its purpose so you can explain it in an age-appropriate way.
Be honest
When you feel awkward or embarrassed tell them why (for example) it was never explained or talked about when you were growing up.
Give them ideas about how they can be respectful and kind
For example, being patient with their friends at school and sisters and not saying things like, “She must be on her period because she is so moody.’
Be accurate
Give the correct information about the menstrual cycle.
So when…
Your son walks in on you changing a pad
He asks what the bin is used for next to the toilet
Sees a pad or tampon ad on television
He finds your menstrual cup
He sees blood in the toilet
Ask him if he knows what a period is. You might be pleasantly surprised about how open, ongoing and positive your conversations are.
By talking about menstruation, I believe we can, as parents help the next generation of boys to be kind, understanding and respectful.
