Anonymous wrote:I'm sure this is something that OP would be too uncomfortable to mention but in families that really practice "open and no shame" conversations about all sorts of topics, a mom might inform her daughter that self/solo pleasure is a wonderful way to deal with cramps, especially in the bath or shower. I've also read of moms going so far as to install a nice hand held massage showerhead in their daughter's bathroom.

I don’t think OP should tell his daughter that. Nor will I (a woman) tell my daughter that!

OP, fellow dad with daughters here. While I commend you for taking the lead on this, you should get another woman (grandmother, aunt, etc) to talk with your daughter. There *will* be accidents. Everything that these ladies are sharing is spot on...period underwear, old PJ's, stains to be rinsed out, a period towel for the bed, etc. I say this respectfully but you (and me) have no idea what girls go through mentally, emotionally, and also physically. You are preparing for just the physical portion, which is important and more involved than you think, but also prepare for the mental and emotional. Another woman will be able to guide not only your daughter but you too. Good luck!

If OP's DD has a smartphone, a period tracking app is also a great suggestion.

Does OP know what PMS stands for?

Highly recommend the 28ish Days Later podcast from the BBC, which focuses on what happens in a woman's body over the course of her menstrual cycle - period is only one part of it. Also touches on toxic shock syndrome, which you and your daughter should be aware of if she decides to use tampons.

Anonymous wrote:I'm sure this is something that OP would be too uncomfortable to mention but in families that really practice "open and no shame" conversations about all sorts of topics, a mom might inform her daughter that self/solo pleasure is a wonderful way to deal with cramps, especially in the bath or shower. I've also read of moms going so far as to install a nice hand held massage showerhead in their daughter's bathroom.

Um, I am a 47 yo women open to talking about anything and have not heard any of this before. Dad, do not bring any of this up with your daughter. If it’s all true she can find out from friends.

+1 on the Always pads. They come in sizes and DD was really tiny when she first got hers. She started with size 1 and then went to size 2. As an 8th grader she can wear anything now and still likes Always. I keep a couple types of tampons on the closest if she ever wants to try them.

There are period underwear and swim wear. Some girls like them very much as back ups, others don’t. Thinx and Ruby Love are popular brands.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Yikes.. as a woman I have not experienced this 'self pleasure' during cramps. I would have been motified if any adult suggested it.

You're missing out on one of the sisterhoodsl's best (not kept) secrets! Showerheads and tub faucets can be magical on any day but especially on *those* days of the month.

Like in the porn movies! Thx PP, you go do you.