Your mother probably never spoke to you about it. So why should you be any different with your child? Only because she may genuinely need help. She could be shy to bring it up with you.

You're not comfortable doing this. It needs to be done all the same. Plan your talk. Prepare for it. It will flow easily when it is ready in your head. There is no need to hem and haw about it.

Always make sure the two of you have privacy. Don't do it with your husband, mother, or any other relative around. Your daughter may be uneasy about it.

Talk directly. Don't take a round about, confusing route. Tell her that there are a few things she needs to know.

Make sure you tell her all that she needs to know about her periods. This includes how to wear a pad. It could be terrifying if it happened to her when you are not around.

Ask her if she has understood. If she has questions or doubts, tell her you could help her out.

Listening is as important as talking. Patiently hear her out. Extinguish her fears. No matter how silly the questions seem to you, it is important to her.

Tell her your experiences or that of your sister's. Show her it is very natural to make a few mistakes.

Don't have a grave face. It isn't the end of the world you are talking about. If she has a tendency to giggle, join her. It will only strengthen the bonds between the two of you.

Before you finish, tell her you're available anytime she needs to have her doubts cleared.