To Niece the middling on the occasion of her first period
Congratulations Honey.
Your mum asked me to write abut periods. I thought I would tell you the things that people told me and what I’ve learned about periods in the 25 years I’ve had a period.
- Don’t talk about it in front of “mixed company.” This was my mum and she was wrong. Having a period is like eating or going to the bathroom. Normal, natural and not something to be ashamed of. Tell or don’t tell, it’s up to you.
- There’s no such thing as PMS. This was my grade 6 teacher in health class. I have no idea why I believed a man with no uterus, but I did. As a result I suffered with terrible cramps for a long time. Be smarter than me. If you are worried, go to a qualified medical professional. Not your friend’s best friend’s sister’s neighbour who kinda had this problem. Not google. A doctor. A nurse.
- You will hate getting your period. It’s a curse. My best friend Melanie. Some months it has been a relief – when I was really worried I might be pregnant (birthcontrol!). Some months I was sad because I wanted to be pregnant. It has been inconvenient. I get the odd month with cramps. Most months it just comes and goes. It’s not a big deal. Time and periods both pass and I kind of like the marker.
This is wonderful. Special. I’m glad you are at this time in your life. I love you at every time in your life.
Aunty Cheryl.
This is awesome. Keeping it for when bear is of the period age.