Menstruation is a natural biological process experienced by nearly half the global population. Yet, for many girls, the first period arrives as a surprise—often misunderstood, feared, or even stigmatised. In many societies, including Nigeria, menstruation is still considered a taboo topic.
The silence around it leaves many adolescent girls unprepared for one of the most important transitions of their lives: puberty.
Without accurate and timely information, the first menstrual experience can be confusing and traumatic. Some girls may believe they are ill or have done something wrong. Others may face ridicule, miss school, or suffer in silence due to a lack of access to proper menstrual hygiene products or support systems.
Educating girls before their first period is critical—not only to help them manage it with confidence but also to protect their health, dignity, and educational opportunities.
At a recent two-day capacity-building workshop organised by Population Services International (PSI) Nigeria in Lagos, the need for improved menstrual health education took centre stage.
The workshop brought together media professionals and social media influencers to bridge the gap between science, storytelling, and social change.
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Dr. Abdul-Hameed Adediran, Senior Programme Manager and Team Lead of Menstrual Health Initiatives at PSI Nigeria, emphasised the importance of dismantling cultural taboos and empowering girls with knowledge.
“We cannot talk about adolescent health, dignity, and gender equality without addressing the issue of menstrual education,” he said. “Menstruation should not be a barrier—it should be a bridge to knowledge, care, and self-respect.”
Understanding the first period
A girl’s first period, also known as menarche, typically occurs between the ages of 9 and 16. It marks the onset of puberty and signals that the body is capable of reproduction. However, this physiological change does not mean a girl is ready for motherhood—it’s simply a natural step in growing up.
For many girls, the first period can be confusing, especially if they are not informed about what to expect. Menstruation is the monthly shedding of the uterine lining when pregnancy does not occur. It usually presents as blood flow from the vagina and lasts between 3 to 7 days.
Dr. Adediran highlighted, “Girls need to know that this is not an illness or a curse. It’s part of a healthy reproductive system. Preparing them ahead of time is crucial to reducing fear, embarrassment, or trauma.”
What to expect
1. Cycle length
The menstrual cycle is the time from the first day of one period to the first day of the next. While the average cycle length is 28 days, it can vary widely, between 21 and 35 days for adolescents. Irregular periods are common in the first one to two years after menarche as the body adjusts to hormonal changes.
2. Flow and colour
Menstrual flow can range from light to heavy and may include dark brown, bright red, or pinkish blood. It may be heavier on the first two days and lighter toward the end. Clots can occasionally appear, and this is typically normal.
3. Cramps and physical discomfort
Many girls experience abdominal cramps, backaches, headaches, mood swings, or fatigue during their period. These symptoms, collectively called premenstrual syndrome (PMS), are due to hormonal fluctuations. Simple remedies like warm compresses, hydration, mild exercise, or over-the-counter pain relief can help manage the discomfort.
4. Emotions and mental health
Hormonal changes can affect emotions. Feeling irritable, sad, or unusually sensitive before or during menstruation is not uncommon. Supportive conversations and reassurance from parents or guardians can go a long way in helping girls feel grounded.
Menstrual hygiene products
Girls should also know that they have options when it comes to managing menstrual flow. The most commonly used menstrual hygiene products include:
Sanitary Pads – These are easy to use and widely available in supermarkets and pharmacies. They should be changed every 4–6 hours to prevent leaks and infections.
Tampons – Inserted into the vagina, tampons are discreet and effective, but not widely used in Nigeria due to cultural perceptions.
Menstrual Cups – A reusable option made of medical-grade silicone. While environmentally friendly and cost-effective over time, they require proper cleaning and insertion techniques.
Reusable Pads – Washable and sustainable, reusable pads are ideal for long-term use but require access to clean water and soap.
Period Panties – Special underwear with built-in absorbent layers. These are still relatively new in Nigeria but are gaining popularity.
Dr. Adediran noted that “Access to safe and affordable menstrual products is a right, not a luxury. No girl should miss school or feel ashamed because she cannot manage her period properly.”
Talking openly: Breaking the culture of silence
The PSI workshop provided a critical platform for challenging the cultural taboos surrounding menstruation. The experts stressed that the media must lead in changing the narrative.
“Storytelling is a powerful tool for social change,” Dr. Adediran explained. “By normalising conversations about menstruation, media practitioners and influencers can help adolescents make informed decisions about their bodies.”
Parents, teachers, religious leaders, and traditional authorities must also be brought into this dialogue. “We need to build an ecosystem of support,” he added, “where girls can learn about menstrual health in school, ask questions at home, and find accurate information in the media.”
Hygiene and self-care tips
Girls must be taught the importance of menstrual hygiene to prevent infections and boost self-esteem. Here are essential tips:
Change sanitary products regularly – Every 4–6 hours for pads and tampons.
Clean with water and mild soap – Avoid using harsh or scented soaps that can disrupt vaginal pH.
Dispose of used products properly – Wrap pads in tissue or bags and throw them in a bin. Do not flush them.
Wear comfortable, breathable underwear – Preferably cotton- to avoid irritation.
Track your cycle – Using apps or a calendar helps girls prepare and detect irregularities.
When to seek medical help
While irregular periods are normal initially, certain signs require medical attention:
Extremely heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad every hour for several hours)
Severe cramps that limit daily activities
In such cases, girls should be encouraged to see a healthcare provider.
Conclusion: Periods don’t stop her progress
Every girl’s first period should be a moment of pride, not fear. It should be welcomed with understanding, support, and education. As Dr. Abdul-Hameed Adediran aptly put it during the PSI Nigeria workshop, “Menstruation is a sign of life and continuity. Girls should be celebrated, not sidelined, when their periods begin.”
By equipping girls with the knowledge of what to expect—cycle length, flow, cramps, and hygiene options—we prepare them not just for menstruation, but for life.
It’s time we told our daughters the truth, taught them with love, and showed them that their periods don’t stop their potential. Instead, they mark the beginning of a new chapter—one filled with growth, resilience, and womanhood.
