Daughter Going Through Puberty

Hi J.,
When I was your daughter's age I had the same problem. I also had really bad craps that kept me home 1-2 days a month. Not fun. The best way my mother found to help me with my moodiness was to have me take an extra suppliment of B-Complex. B-Complex is a natural vitamin, it's in all you multi-vitamins. And it helps with all the things that cause stress and bad mood. It kind of naturally evens you out without having to get a prescription. It you have any questions talk to your doc or your local pharmacist. Good luck.

My daughter is 12 and is going through the same thing, I also work with a lady who's 12 year old is going through it too, it is very common I guess. We just try to roll with the punches & I try and be extra understanding and patient with her during that time,,it's hard they're nasty & you just want to lock them away somewhere :) LOL! I figure maybe she gets it from me b/c a week before I start I'm miserable too. Maybe you could try Midol. Good luck to us!

Hi J.,

My first suggestion would be to take her to see an GYNE. When I went through puberty and starting getting my period, I was a monster, but my mom took me to see a GYNE, he put me on the pill and I mellowed out a bit and my periods became less intense.

She may also be suffering from a pre-menstrual syndrome. There are a variety of those that the medical community is beginning to understand and recognize and also know how to treat.

I also recommend giving her some space to deal with this new experience. This can be rather traumatic for young girls, especially if they already have hang ups about their bodies, which most girls in America do. Try talking to her to find out what the actual problem is, and maybe seek professional advice.

Good luck, be patient, and keep a steady supply of tissues and chocolate in the house.

My daughter is 14.What a trying time. You may try some over the counter stuff like Premasyn. Fish oil can help, and so can St Johns Wart, but watch out because it can cause sleep problems and it takes a few weeks to start working. If these don't work, The Pill can ease PMS and regulate the cycle. From there, if its still a big problem, antidepressants can be used for just one week to regulate PMS. If its just moodiness at home, I wouldn't pursue medical treatment, but if she's fighting with friends and having disruptions at school you want to treat her.

My daughter is 15 so I can relate all too well what you are going through. I don't remember being that bad either (my mom remembers differently) but isn't it funny how quickly we forget and that we think we know everything at that age? HAHA! My daughter has mood swings and can be very defensive and moody which, of course, goes with menstruation but it's also attributed to the age.

Have your daughter take Midol/Motrin (or whatever you choose) a few days before her period is due. This will help to eleviate cramps and/or other symptons earlier. Also, keep her caffeine intake to a minimum during her period (chocolate, soda, etc.) because caffeine adds to the symptons. I know...easier said than done but it DOES help. Water is great to drink during this time too.

I wish I had more advice but I don't. I can say that as she gets older, she will start to appreciate you more and not be SO moody all the time. Good luck!

The only thing I would suggest would be talk to your pediatrician or possibly a gynecologist. I am not sure if they would prescribe anything for a child her age. You might be able to find something at a health food store, suitable for a child her age.

J.,
You have gotten so great advice so far. I'd like to add to it. Mood swings are a sure fire indicator that something is lacking in her diet. Water is key, as is ample amounts of Calcium from both food and supplement sources (in equal amounts) and Cod Liver Oil or Neptune Krill Oil. The Omega 3,6,9 fatty acids are a must especially for women of childbearing age. Scary to think our baby girls are/will be that age, but unfortunately it happens. LOL!!

Dietary Calcium is NOT an invitation to over emphasize processed/pasteurized dairy, but if she will eat yogurt that is a great way to get it since it will also keep her good flora in balance. Dark leafy greens are best and there are many more calcium rich foods she can choose. I have a great list of Calcium rich foods posted here on Mamasource <http://www.mamasource.com/request/9775124856034033665&gt;

Wishing you the best during this time of great change and self discovery for both you and your daughter.

Blessings,
Rolinda
Wife, Mother, Friend