How to Talk to my Daughter About Endometriosis?

If you have endometriosis, or if it runs in your family, you might worry that it may also affect your daughter in the future. However, it may not be easy to talk to a child or teenager about the disease. Yet, engaging them in conversations is one of the best ways to educate and prepare them for the potential of endometriosis. Here are some tips on how to talk to your daughter about endometriosis.

There is no right age to start the conversation

You need not wait for an appropriate age to begin talking about endometriosis with your daughter.

Endometriosis can affect girls as young as age 8. Therefore, early conversations with your daughter at a young age set the tone for more advanced discussions later in life.

The sooner you make your child aware of the disease, the better. However, make sure you convey your thoughts in a matter appropriate for her age for easy understanding.

Dysmenorrhea (pain associated with menstrual periods) is often the most common symptom of endometriosis in adolescents. Conversations with your daughter help her understand that period pain can be caused due to a variety of reasons. This will make her better equipped to seek immediate help if she ends up having the symptoms of the disease too.

Be open about your own condition

Your daughter may not be at an age to fully appreciate the intricacies of your disease. But she can very well sense that something is not quite right. She may notice you experiencing debilitating pain, not being able to give her your time, or just not being at your usual best.

Start by telling your daughter about the disease in a language she understands. But make sure that it is in a manner that is not intimidating. Depending on her age, all that she needs to know is that you are likely to feel low and that you need to take ample rest.

Be honest in answering questions

Children are ever-inquisitive, so be ready to answer their questions about your symptoms to the maximum possible extent.

Your daughter will soon grow up to understand that debilitating period pain is not normal. She will also know it is okay to talk about it and seek support from family and friends. This will also remove any inhibitions they may develop at a later stage should they also have the disease.

Talk to your sons about endometriosis too

Although endometriosis affects only women, it is important that sons and other members of the family and friends are aware of the disease and its symptoms. This can help them be more compassionate and raise awareness about the disease.

Do you have a young daughter and do you worry about the potential of her having endometriosis in the future? Did you find this article helpful? Please share your thoughts by leaving a comment on our post on Facebook or Instagram if you wish.