Fathers with Teen Daughters and PMS

Few fathers, all of those years ago, stood with their baby girl in their arms thought about they day they would have to handle the question of PMS...with their teenage daughter! Yet, it is as sure to happen as dating, trips to the mall, and make-up.

Most fathers dutiful shuffle the discussions of PMS off to the mother / daughter “no mans” land where men may not trespass. This does not need to be the case. Discussion of such vital topics as PMS with your teenage daughter gives her two very vital clues to the relationship between men and women that she will use later in life: 1—Talking about important subjects is good for growth and understanding; 2—You are there for her when she needs you.

As much as a father might want to help his daughter during this difficult time of transition, he might be as confused as she is how to be of any help. Here are a few tips for fathers of teenage girls with PMS:

•Female Life Lines: Find a female (your wife, sister, teacher, or school counselor) for your daughter to talk to. Encourage her to be open with you and feel free to come to you with all issues, but realize that your gender might make it difficult for both of you. You might also speak with female role models in your daughter’s life about ways to help her through PMS.

•Snacks Attacks: Keep PMS friendly snacks like fruits, veggies, and ginger cookies around for cravings. Establishing these habits early will help her deal with PMS for many years to come. Bottled water is always a great source of cleansing the system.

•Stock Up: Make sure she always has female products and pain relievers on hand to help her with PMS. This does not mean you actually have to check or ask her to check. But a slight raise in allowance or a discrete shopping trip where you give her a few extra dollars to meet her needs would be a great way to help her get into the habit of planning for PMS.

•Information: With a resource like PMS Central (www.pmscentral.com) for free email reminders, articles, expert advice, and female forums, she can feel at home finding the information she needs to help her through PMS. Helping her find the information that she can read on her own will say you are interested and understand her pain—even if she does say “Aw Dad!”

•Workout: Offer to exercise with her during PMS times. A simple walk with the family dog will aid with cramps, mood swings, and depression. Light exercise will keep you both in shape and help her bond with you.

No matter what steps you take to help your teenage daughter through PMS, remember it can be a strong experience for both of you that set her interaction with PMS for many years to come.