Dealing with menstrual blues in a girl child with special needs

When reproductive hormones go out of sync, the body faces intense fluctuations in moods. This phase of menstruation is termed menstrual stress. All women undergo menstrual stress that can occur at varying degrees. Medication may be the way to go in very extreme cases. But one must certainly not use it each month in situations that are manageable. 

This article is based on a presentation that highlights simple pointers that will help you meet the emotional needs of your girl child at the start of her menstrual cycle each month. 

This will help you be more prepared in understanding menstruation for women with special needs and the changes that are undergoing with your child. Being equipped with knowledge will help them in being better prepared for Pre-Menstrual Stress (PMS) and their menstrual cycles every month.

What is PMS?

Pre Menstrual Syndrome (PMS) are hormonal changes that happen in our bodies, 7-14 days before the onset of every menstrual cycle. It may lead to:

• Fatigue
• Mood swings
• Headache and backache
• Abdominal cramps
• Bloating

The symptoms of PMS differ from person to person, so does the severity of the symptoms.

Expressing and communicating about the pain and discomfort may be difficult for children with spectrum owing to concerns in communication. This may be even more challenging in children who are non-speaking, as they may find it difficult to communicate and ask for help.

What causes it?

Primarily caused due to hormonal changes in the body, the signs and symptoms of PMS are a result of changes in the hormonal patterns of estrogen and progesterone.

Sometimes, it can be associated with severe bouts of depression and extreme mood swings. 

What makes PMS easier?

Diet: A healthy diet comprising the following will help address some of the difficulties experienced during PMS

• Avoid salty/sugary or spicy food.
• Stay hydrated, avoid caffeine.
• Consume iron rich foods like jaggery, dates and dry fruits. This will help replenish the iron being lost during this time.
• Food rich in minerals such as magnesium and calcium.
• Continue taking supplements such as Vitamin D, B12, omega-3 etc.

Exercise:

• Regular exercise will prevent muscle pain and fatigue. It is important to build a healthy habit such as yoga, aerobics etc. 
• Exercise during the days of PMS will also help improve mood and sleep
• Focusing on exercises that strengthen the back and abdomen will help reduce pain during PMS

Sleep:

• Sufficient sleep is important for good health.
• It is therefore important to ensure the child gets enough sleep and is not overstretched.
• Teach your child to ask for breaks and relaxation on hectic days

 Compassion:

• All children neurodiverse and their neurotypical peers also go through adolescence, hormonal changes and associated changes during menstruation.
• Lack of proper communication may make it more difficult for the child to express their discomfort
• In such scenarios, it is the parents’ love and understanding that goes a long way in comforting the child
• As a caregiver it is our duty to understand and offer the moral and emotional support that the child needs 

Relaxation:

• Activities that involve active planning and execution may help distract the child from the discomfort, while engaging them meaningfully. Baking, cooking are a few examples of such activities.
• Leisure activities including art and craft and other creative activities may help divert their attention. Task completion and a sense of accomplishment helps improve mood.
• A suitable and relaxing music may also have a calming effect on the child.
• Look for activities and situations that helps your child relax

Extreme Moods:

• Occasionally, some children may experience severe mood swings that are beyond their control.
• PMS accompanied by such severe mood fluctuations, depression is termed as Pre Menstrual Dysphoric Disorder
• Consult your doctor for further guidance.. They may prescribe medication, however, be cautious of the possible side effects of the medications.
• It is important to not abuse these medications and follow the prescribed dosages only.

Concerns in planning and communication coupled with increased anxiety and emotional disbalance may make managing periods difficult in children with additional needs.

Following the mentioned tips may help you support your child during menstruation and PMS. 

You might also want to read Occupational therapy hacks for Menstruation in children with special needs to get some tips on managing challenges faced during menstruation among children with special needs. Additionally also check the article on, How to teach your child about good menstrual hygiene practices?

If you have questions about Autism, Down Syndrome, ADHD, or other intellectual disabilities, or have concerns about developmental delays in a child, the Nayi Disha team is here to help. For any questions or queries, please contact our FREE Helpline at 844-844-8996. You can either Call or send us a message over WhatsApp. Our counsellors speak different languages including English, Hindi, Malayalam, Gujarati, Marathi, Telugu, and Bengali.

DISCLAIMER: Please note that this guide on menstruation for women with special needs is for information purposes only. Please consult a qualified health practitioner for more information on menstruation and hygiene practices.