Menstruation (the menstrual cycle) is a natural and healthy stage in a girl’s development and serves as an important indicator of the onset of puberty and physical maturity. The start of menstruation signals that the girl’s body is growing and developing normally, with vital organs—particularly the reproductive system—functioning as they should. Dr. Hanaa Mansour, a specialist in obstetrics and gynecology at Mediclinic Hospital in Sharjah, explains the importance of menstruation in a girl’s growth.
Understanding Menstruation
Although menstruation is a natural biological process experienced by all girls, many feel anxious, shy, or even fearful when facing it for the first time. This can be due to a lack of information, misconceptions, or negative societal attitudes. Dr. Hanaa explains:
"Understanding menstruation scientifically and simply helps remove the mystery surrounding it, boosts a girl’s confidence in her body, and breaks psychological barriers of embarrassment. It supports girls in managing their menstrual cycle comfortably, whether at home, school, or during daily activities. It is normal to notice light clear or white discharge before menstruation, which is a sign that the body is preparing for this stage. Mothers may worry about these changes, but they are a natural part of hormonal development as long as there are no abnormal symptoms like bad odor or itching."
What Happens During Menstruation
Menstruation is not painful for all girls. Some experience severe cramps, while others may have little to no pain, perhaps only mild fatigue or mood swings. Dr. Hanaa explains:
"Menstruation, also called the menstrual period, is part of a monthly cycle. Each month, the body prepares for a possible pregnancy by forming a soft lining in the uterus. If pregnancy does not occur, this lining breaks down and exits the body, usually accompanied by bleeding for several days. Menstruation is a natural sign that the reproductive system is working properly. However, it does not necessarily mean a girl is psychologically or socially ready—it simply indicates physical maturity."
Factors Affecting Menstruation
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Stress and weight changes: Chronic stress or significant changes in weight can affect the timing of menstruation, including its onset. High stress or weight disorders may delay or disrupt cycles, requiring early monitoring and awareness to avoid unnecessary worry.
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Irregular cycles in early years: It is common for the first year or two of menstruation to occur without ovulation, leading to irregular or lighter periods. This is normal and does not indicate a health problem.
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Early puberty signs: Puberty begins years before the first period, with hormonal changes like breast development, discharge, and new hair growth. Early education about menstruation is important to prepare girls physically and psychologically.
How to Support Your Daughter During Menstruation
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Hydration: Drink plenty of water.
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Rest and sleep: Ensure adequate rest and sleep.
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Healthy diet: Eat a balanced and nutritious diet.
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Physical activity: Engage in light exercise, such as walking.
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Warm compresses: Apply warm compresses to the lower abdomen to relieve cramps.
Understanding that menstruation is a natural part of growth, along with proper knowledge and preparation, helps girls navigate this new stage with confidence.
Personal Hygiene During Menstruation
Maintaining personal hygiene is essential for a girl’s comfort and health. Mothers should guide their daughters to:
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Change sanitary pads, menstrual cups, or underwear regularly (every 4–6 hours) to prevent bacterial buildup.
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Wash hands thoroughly before and after changing menstrual products to prevent infection.
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Clean the genital area with warm water and mild, fragrance-free soap, and dry gently to avoid irritation.
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Wear loose, breathable clothing, such as cotton, to reduce discomfort.
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Dispose of used menstrual products properly in trash, not in toilets.
Following these steps promotes hygiene, comfort, and confidence during menstruation.
Menstruation and Psychological Comfort
Menstruation should not be associated with shame or embarrassment. It is a natural process experienced by all women and a key marker of health and physical maturity. Open conversations with parents, teachers, or healthcare providers help girls feel informed, supported, and confident.
Educating girls about menstruation early—through family guidance or school programs—protects their physical and mental health and empowers them to manage this stage with awareness and dignity.
Menstruation is not a disease; it is a natural bodily rhythm deserving understanding and respect. Early education helps girls handle it calmly, confidently, and without fear or confusion.
Cravings During Menstruation
Dr. Hanaa explains why many girls crave sugar during certain times of the month and advises on how to manage it healthily:
"Most girls experience strong sugar cravings about a week before menstruation, though timing varies. This often subsides once the period starts. These cravings are usually due to hormonal changes. Progesterone decreases and estrogen rises before menstruation, sometimes causing low blood sugar. The brain signals the need for sugar to compensate. Serotonin levels (the 'happiness hormone') may also be low, especially in girls with premenstrual syndrome (PMS), leading to cravings for sugar and carbohydrates. Proper carbohydrate intake before menstruation helps the body produce enough insulin to transport serotonin from the gut to the brain."
To manage blood sugar, Dr. Hanaa recommends:
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Include protein-rich foods: Meat, fish, eggs, nuts, seeds, beans, and legumes.
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Include healthy fats: Essential for hormone production and satiety; examples include olive oil, avocado, coconut, nuts, and seeds.
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Micronutrients: Magnesium and B vitamins can help regulate blood sugar and reduce sugar cravings.
Balancing blood sugar is crucial for overall hormonal regulation and reducing PMS symptoms.
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