Period guide for dads

You were enjoying your dinner with your family and suddenly your daughter gets up mid-way making an excuse. Your wife follows her next. Now it's been a while since they haven't returned to the dining table and you get up to check in if it's all right. 

You hear your daughter saying in a tense tone—“There are no pads in my wardrobe.” All the stores nearby are shut, what to do?

As a dad, there are many situations where you may find yourself clueless about periods when your daughter or partner starts talking about it. Especially when it comes to knowing what to do when your partner or daughter is on their period. Don't worry you're not alone. It's a topic that can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you haven't had any prior knowledge or experience.

Here's a detailed guide to periods that can help you navigate this subject with ease.

Why do dads need to break the stigma?

Did you know 58% of women feel embarrassed just because they are on their periods? That's why it becomes paramount for dads to break the stigma around periods. There are various reasons why they need to do so. 

Firstly, periods are a normal biological process experienced by half of the world's population, and it's essential to promote open and honest discussions about menstruation to help reduce the shame and stigma that often surround it.

Secondly, many young people, including daughters, often feel embarrassed or ashamed to discuss their periods, even with their mothers. This discomfort can lead to misunderstandings, misinformation, and missed opportunities for education and support.

Thirdly, dads play a crucial role in their children's lives, including their daughters' menstrual health. By discussing periods openly and positively, dads can help to break down the barriers that prevent girls from feeling comfortable talking about their bodies and promote a more inclusive and supportive environment. Below are a few ways by which you can understand periods and make the conversation comfortable as a dad.

Understand what causes periods! 

A period is a part of the menstrual cycle in which a woman's body sheds the lining of the uterus. It's a natural process that occurs once a month and can last anywhere from 3 to 7 days. It's crucial to understand that periods are a normal part of life and not something to be ashamed of or embarrassed about.

Educate yourself

See, to advise about something you haven't experienced is tough. So it's best to educate yourself about periods by reading books or articles, watching educational videos, or attending parenting workshops. Understanding the facts about periods, such as how they occur and why they are necessary, can help you provide better support to your daughter.

Have an open conversation

Starting a conversation about periods can be daunting, but it's essential to create a comfortable environment where your daughter feels safe and can ask questions. Listen actively and avoid judgmental language or reactions. Answer her questions honestly and assure her that periods are a normal part of life.

Provide menstrual products

Always ensure that your daughter has access to menstrual products, such as pads or tampons. Ask her which products she prefers, and stock up on them. If your daughter prefers using tampons, show her how to insert them correctly and safely. Yes, dads can do that too!

Talk about hygiene

Good hygiene is crucial during periods. Teach your daughter how to maintain good hygiene by changing her pads or tampons frequently, washing her hands before and after changing them, and taking regular showers. After all, a good dad takes care of his daughter just like her mum! 

Be supportive

During her periods, your daughter may experience mood swings, cramps, and other physical and emotional changes. It's essential to provide support and understanding during this time. Help her manage any discomfort by offering pain medication, hot water bottles, or tea, and listening to her concerns.

Special tip: How about you ask her this? 

“Are you okay honey? Let me get you some pills!”

Normalize periods

Your daughter may already be feeling shy or at worst “ashamed” of her periods. It's crucial to normalize periods and remove any stigma or shame attached to them. Encourage your daughter to talk openly about her periods and remind her that it's a natural part of her body's reproductive system.

What a single dad must know about period products

If you are a single father, things get super messed up, especially if you don't know much about period products. Fret not, as below we share some period products that dads should know about:

Menstrual pads

Menstrual pads are the most common period product and are worn inside the underwear to absorb menstrual blood. They are available in different sizes, shapes, and absorbancies to suit different needs. While choosing one for your daughter, make sure to choose comfortable ones like Avni's super comfortable period essentials.

Tampons

Tampons are small, cylindrical-shaped products that are inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual blood. They are available in different sizes, absorbencies, and applicator types, including plastic applicators and digital applicators. 

Menstrual cups

Menstrual cups are reusable period product that is inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood. They are made of medical-grade silicone or latex and can last up to 10 years with proper care. If you want the best, organic ones for your daughter, check out Avni's Menstrual cups here. 

Period panties

Period panties are absorbent underwear designed to be worn during periods. They can absorb varying amounts of menstrual blood, depending on the brand and style.

Period discs

Period discs are a newer period product that is inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual blood. They are similar in shape to a menstrual cup but are flatter and are designed to be worn during sex.

Reusable cloth pads

Reusable cloth pads are eco-friendly alternatives to disposable menstrual pads. They are made of cloth and can be washed and reused for up to two years.

It's important to note that every person's body is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Encourage your daughter to try different period products to find the one that works best for her. As a father, you can support her by providing her with access to different products and helping her learn how to use them correctly and safely.

Gift your daughter Avni’s period products

As a dad, gifting your daughter period products will encourage transparency about menstruation and promote open conversation about it. You can help your daughter overcome the societal “period taboo” that she may have while also helping her traverse her tough days with ease. 

By doing this, you would make it easier for your daughter to talk to you about any menstruation issues like PCOD or PCOS. This will help grow a stronger father-daughter bond that every father yearns to have. 

If you are looking for the best period products to buy for your daughter, grab Avni’s period care range to help your daughter have a hassle-free period every month.