How Parents Can Normalize Period Talk for Teens


Talking about periods with your teen might feel awkward at first, but it’s one of the most important conversations you can have. Menstruation is a natural part of life, and creating an open and supportive dialogue helps teens feel confident and informed. Here’s how parents can normalize period talk and create a safe space for their child to ask questions.

1. Start Early & Keep It Casual

You don’t need to wait until your child gets their first period to start the conversation. Introduce the topic early in age-appropriate ways—whether it’s mentioning it when buying period products or answering their curiosity with honesty. The more casual and open the discussion, the less intimidating it will feel for them.

2. Use Correct Terms & Avoid Stigma

Avoid euphemisms like “Aunt Flo” or “that time of the month.” Using the correct terms—like menstruation, period, or cycle—helps normalize the experience. It also prevents shame or secrecy, allowing your teen to see their period as a natural and healthy part of life.

3. Encourage Questions Without Judgment

Teens may feel embarrassed to ask about periods, especially if they’ve only heard whispers or myths from friends. Let them know no question is off-limits. Create a safe space where they can ask about cramps, period flow, or different products without fear of judgment.

4. Teach Practical Period Care

Show them how to use different period products like pads, tampons, menstrual cups, and period underwear. Discuss how often to change them, how to track their cycle, and how to manage cramps. If possible, keep a stash of period supplies in the bathroom so they’re always prepared.

5. Include All Genders in the Conversation

If you have sons, they should be part of this conversation too. Educating boys about periods helps remove stigma and teaches them to be supportive and respectful of menstruating individuals. Periods shouldn’t be treated as a secret—everyone benefits from understanding them.

6. Lead by Example

If you menstruate, be open about your own experience. Saying things like, “I have cramps today” or “I need to grab some pads” in a neutral way helps show that periods are a normal part of life, not something to be hidden.

7. Reassure & Support

The first few periods can be unpredictable and emotional. Reassure your teen that it’s okay if their cycle isn’t regular at first, if they experience cramps, or if they feel moody. Let them know they can always come to you for help or even just a comforting hug.

Final Thoughts

Normalizing period talk at home helps teens feel empowered rather than embarrassed. By being open, honest, and supportive, you’re setting the foundation for a positive relationship with their body and health. Periods are nothing to be ashamed of—they’re just a part of life!

Here are some helpful resources and books for teens learning about periods:

Books:

📖 The Care and Keeping of You by Valorie Schaefer – A great guide for younger teens covering puberty, periods, and self-care.

📖 Celebrate Your Body (and Its Changes, Too!) by Sonya Renee Taylor – A body-positive book that discusses periods in a supportive way.

📖 Period Power: A Manifesto for the Menstrual Movement by Nadya Okamoto – Perfect for older teens, this book dives into period positivity and breaking the stigma.

📖 Go with the Flow by Karen Schneemann & Lily Williams – A graphic novel about four friends tackling period stigma together.

Websites & Resources:

🌍 Scarleteen – A great online resource for teens covering periods, puberty, and sexual health in an inclusive way.

🌍 Hello Clue – The Clue app and blog provide easy-to-understand articles about menstrual cycles and period tracking.

🌍 The Period Purse – A Canadian organization working to provide period education and free menstrual products.