The Power of the Menstrual Cycle and How to Talk to Your Daughter About It
God didn’t give me daughters, He gave me three amazing sons. And even though they’re boys, I know that one day I’ll talk to them about the menstrual cycle too, in a way that makes sense for them, with respect, understanding, and truth. Because everyone benefits when we break the silence and speak openly about our bodies.
But today, this is for the girls and for the mothers, aunties, and big sisters raising them.
Even though I don’t have daughters of my own, I do have something I wish I’d had:
The knowledge I’ve gathered over the years about how powerful, wise, and meaningful our menstrual cycle really is. I wish someone had told me these things when I got my first period.
I was lucky to have my mother by my side that day, and I know she did her best. But honestly, she didn’t even know half of what I’m about to share, and I don’t blame her. Most of us were just told something like, “Congrats! You might have some cramps, but there are pills for that. Here are some pads or tampons, or maybe a menstrual cup if your mom was open-minded. And the most important thing; now you can get pregnant. Like that’s all our period was about.
No one taught us that this moment is a rite of passage, a monthly rhythm that can guide us, ground us, and connect us to ourselves in the most beautiful ways.
So I want to invite you: please, teach your daughter early. Teach her what her menstrual cycle really is. That it’s not just about bleeding or the ability to have babies, it’s about understanding her body, her emotions, her power.
Below, you’ll find a letter, one you can read to your daughter when she gets her first period… or even later, if the moment has passed but the conversation hasn’t happened yet. It’s never too late to tell her the truth about her body, her cycle, and her strength.
Please share this with anyone you think might need it.
With love,
Day
Dear Daughter
Your body is starting something really special, it’s called a menstrual cycle. That means every month, your body follows a natural rhythm, like a clock, that helps you grow, stay healthy, and feel in tune with yourself. Learning to understand and track this cycle is a powerful way to take care of your hormones. It can help you feel more balanced, not just now, but as you grow up and make choices about your life, school, career, relationships, and even becoming a mom someday, if you want to. It’s like learning your body’s secret language and it can guide you in amazing ways.
There are four parts to this cycle, kind of like seasons:
Menstrual Phase (Winter) – This is when you get your period, the first day of bleeding marks the beginning of your cycle. During this time, your body is resting and resetting. You might feel like being cozy, quiet, or simply taking it slow.
Follicular Phase (Spring) – After your period, your body starts to get new energy. This is a great time to try new things, be active, and have fun. You may feel more excited and curious.
Ovulation (Summer) – This is the middle of your cycle, when your body releases an egg. You might feel super social, confident, or like connecting more with people.
Luteal Phase (Fall) – Your hormones start to shift again, and you might feel more emotional or want some alone time. That’s totally normal. Some days you might feel a little moody, and that’s okay, it’s your body’s way of asking for rest and care.
The main hormones involved are:
Estrogen – gives you energy and confidence.
Progesterone – helps you feel calm and sleepy.
LH and FSH – they help your body release an egg and get the cycle started.
This is not just about getting a period. Your period is one part of a bigger cycle that affects your whole body — not just your uterus or ovaries. These hormones (they’re like little messengers in your body) are going to rise and fall each month, and they help guide how you feel, how much energy you have, how your brain works, and even your moods. Some women might say it's a burden, but it’s not. In fact, it’s the start of a super power. These hormonal fluctuations, which make up your monthly cycle and can be learned and tracked, can actually offer a powerful way to guide you through life. They can help you become more creative when needed, more intuitive, give you more energy when necessary, and remind you to rest when it's time. It’s like having your own secret map to help you navigate life.
So if some days you feel super happy and other days you feel like crying for no reason — you’re not broken! It’s just your hormones doing their job.
And the more you learn to listen to your body, the more you'll understand what it needs — whether that’s rest, movement, creativity, connection, or quiet. This cycle isn’t something to be ashamed of or hide — it’s something to be proud of. It means your body is wise, capable, and full of potential.
You’re entering a new chapter of life, and while it may feel a little strange or even confusing at first, just know: you’re not alone. Millions of women have walked this path before you — and here I am to help guide the way.
This is the beginning of something truly powerful.
With love,
[Mom or your name]
P.S. Always remember: your cycle isn’t just about your period — it’s about your power. 💛