As a mom of three boys, I found myself facing a challenge early on when it came to discussing PMS with them. It all started during a particularly tough day when I was experiencing intense symptoms. My sons were just 9, 7, and 6 at the time, and we were on a long car ride. To avoid a meltdown, I decided to explain PMS to them in a way they could understand. I shared that sometimes, women can feel irritable, sad, or overly emotional due to hormonal changes.
To my surprise, they listened quietly and accepted my apology. I thought we had turned a corner, but our lunch outing later that day quickly proved otherwise. As we sat at the table, my youngest son decided to test his boundaries, and when I reprimanded him for his behavior, he shouted, “You’re just mad because you have your period!” The restaurant fell silent, and I felt my frustration boil over.
From that moment on, I knew I had to impart some vital lessons about PMS to my boys:
1. Understanding PMS is Important.
PMS is a real experience for many women. While I strive not to use it as an excuse for my behavior, there are times when it affects my mood. Just like I wouldn’t tolerate a grumpy dad walking through the door after work, my mood changes deserve a bit of understanding too. If you feel the need to discuss it, do so respectfully and when I’m not around—let’s say at least five miles away.
2. Approach with Caution.
If you ever feel compelled to mention how my moods affect you, do so gently and thoughtfully. Treat it as you would any sensitive topic. It’s essential to be informed about women’s health issues since one day you might have a wife or daughter. Remember, it’s never okay to use derogatory phrases like “on the rag” or “bitch week.” Just don’t go there.
3. A Little Pampering Goes a Long Way.
Remember how I care for you when you’re feeling unwell? Well, the same goes for me during those tough days. A little kindness, like bringing home some chocolate or offering a foot rub, can make a big difference. It’s not too much to ask for a bit of pampering when I’m dealing with cramps and fatigue.
4. Don’t Be a Jerk About It.
Above all, play it smart. You can choose to engage in conversation about PMS or not, but always avoid being dismissive or rude. Life may seem unfair when you see mood swings and cravings, but remember, I brought you into this world. If you can imagine the discomfort of passing a grapefruit through a tiny hole, maybe then you’ll grasp the struggle.
In summary, discussing PMS with my sons was an unexpected journey that taught me about communication and empathy. It’s crucial for them to understand the realities of PMS and approach it with kindness and respect. For more insights into family dynamics and health topics, check out this helpful post on women’s reproductive health at Cervical Insemination.
For those interested in at-home insemination, consider checking out Cryobaby’s at-home insemination kits, a reliable retailer for such products. Additionally, for more information on pregnancy and home insemination, visit NHS’s IVF resource.
Leave a Reply