As a mom of three energetic boys, I had to tackle the subject of PMS when they were quite young—specifically, ages 9, 7, and 6. On a particularly rough morning, I found myself battling severe PMS while stuck in the car with them for over an hour. It was a recipe for a meltdown, and I knew I had to address my short temper.
After a few apologies for my behavior, I decided it was important to explain PMS to them. I told my sons that for many women, PMS can bring on intense emotions, hunger, and irritability. To my surprise, they listened quietly, and I felt like I had nailed my mom duties that day.
However, our idyllic Saturday took a turn during lunch when my youngest, while misbehaving at the table, shouted, “You’re just mad at me because you have your period!” Suddenly, all eyes were on us, and I could feel my face heating up. I knew I needed to step away before my frustration boiled over.
Since that unforgettable moment, I’ve made it a point to teach my sons some important lessons about PMS:
1. PMS is a Real Experience.
My PMS is genuine, and many women endure its effects. While I strive not to use it as an excuse for my frustration, sometimes it happens. It’s not fair, but if your dad came home acting like a mix of a superhero and a cartoon character, I would definitely have a conversation about it. It’s fine to talk about my mood swings—just be sure to do it when I’m not around, like at least five miles away!
2. Approach the Topic with Care.
If PMS ever bothers you, tread lightly. Yelling it across a restaurant isn’t the solution. I want you to handle the subject with kindness and understanding. Educating yourselves about women’s health is essential; one day you may have a wife or daughter. Calmly express your thoughts instead of resorting to silly phrases like “on the rag.” Just don’t go there.
3. A Little TLC Goes a Long Way.
Just as I take care of you when you’re unwell, a bit of pampering during my tough days would be appreciated. It’s a challenge when my body is going through changes, so a small gesture—like a foot rub or some chocolate—could brighten my day.
4. Be Considerate.
Above all, the key takeaway is to avoid being insensitive. Whether you choose to discuss PMS or not, just remember to be respectful. It may seem unfair to deal with mood swings and cravings, but remember the journey women undergo. Imagine the discomfort of going through something like passing a grapefruit!
This lighthearted discussion about PMS not only helps my boys understand their mom better, but also prepares them for healthy relationships in the future. For more insights on pregnancy and related topics, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and visit Make a Mom for authoritative advice on home insemination.
Summary:
Teaching my sons about PMS has created an open dialogue in our family, helping them understand the challenges women face. By addressing PMS with sensitivity, compassion, and a touch of humor, I hope to foster a generation of considerate men.