Dads & Daughters
How to Show Up With Love When She Gets Her Period
For many fathers, the thought of their daughter getting her first period can feel awkward, even intimidating. You might feel unprepared, unsure what to say, or worry about saying the wrong thing.
But here’s the truth: your presence, care, and attitude during this time can make a world of difference. When you respond with love, understanding, and confidence, you show her that periods are nothing to be ashamed of, and that she can always come to you for support.
Here’s how you can navigate this milestone with grace and help your daughter feel seen, safe, and celebrated.
1. Start By Educating Yourself
If you’re not totally sure how periods work, take a little time to learn. At its simplest, a period is a natural part of her reproductive cycle, her body shedding the uterine lining because there’s no pregnancy that month.
It can come with bleeding, cramps, fatigue, mood swings, and more, and it’s completely normal.
When you understand the basics, you can talk about it calmly and answer her questions (or at least know where to find the answers together).
2. Be Calm and Normalize It
When your daughter tells you she’s gotten her period, or if you notice it before she brings it up, don’t make it a big, embarrassing event.
Smile and say something simple and kind, like:
“That’s great, it means your body is healthy and growing. Do you have what you need?”
Your reaction sets the tone. If you’re uncomfortable, she might feel ashamed. But if you treat it like the natural, positive step it is, she’ll feel proud and supported.
3. Offer Practical Support
Make sure your home has the supplies she needs, pads, period cups (if she’s old enough and wants to try one), tampons, heating pads, pain relievers, and maybe some treats to ease the discomfort.
If she’s too shy to ask, offer gently:
“I picked up some supplies for you, but if you want something else, just let me know.”
Being proactive shows her she doesn’t need to hide or handle it all on her own.
4. Check In, But Respect Her Space
Every girl is different. Some want to talk about it; others prefer privacy. Let her lead, but let her know you’re there:
“If you ever want to talk about it or need anything, I’m here. No pressure.”
And remember, she might feel emotional, tired, or irritable at times. Be patient and understanding.
5. Celebrate Her Growing Up
Her first period is a big moment in her life, a sign she’s becoming a young woman. You don’t need to throw a party (unless she wants one!) but you can acknowledge it in a way that feels positive.
You could write her a small note, give her a hug, or take her out for her favorite meal to let her know you’re proud of her.
You got this Dad!
Being a dad during your daughter’s first period, and throughout her adolescence, is about more than just being present. It’s about modeling respect for her body, showing her she’s never alone, and making sure she knows her period is nothing to be ashamed of.
You don’t have to have all the answers. You just have to show up with love, with patience, and with an open heart.
Because someday, when she looks back, she won’t just remember the cramps or the pads, she’ll remember how supported and loved she felt by her dad.
