Talking to Teens about Period Pain

Why Early Conversations Matter

For generations, period pain has been dismissed as something “normal” that every girl must simply learn to endure. But when cramps are so painful that they cause missed school days, nausea, fainting, or exhaustion, it’s time to stop calling it normal — and start calling it what it could be: a sign of Endometriosis.

Talking to young people early can make a life-changing difference. Many adults with Endometriosis remember their teenage years filled with confusion, shame, and trips to the nurse’s office that ended with, “It’s just part of being a woman.” We now know that the earlier the signs are recognized, the sooner effective care and understanding can begin.

How to Start the Conversation

Parents and guardians don’t need medical degrees to make a difference — just open dialogue and empathy. Here are a few ways to begin:

1. Ask, don’t assume. Instead of saying, “That’s just a bad period,” try “How does your pain feel?” or “Does it stop you from doing things you enjoy?”

   
   

2. Normalize, but don’t minimize. Periods are normal — severe pain is not.

   
   

3. Share stories. If you or someone you know has struggled with painful periods, sharing that experience can help them feel less alone.

   
   

4. Track symptoms together. Encourage journaling or using a period tracking app to log pain levels, fatigue, bloating, and mood changes.

   
   

5. Advocate for care. If symptoms persist, support them in seeing a healthcare provider who listens and investigates beyond “it’s just cramps.”

The “Our Daughters Matter” Campaign

Endometriosis Canada’s Our Daughters Matter campaign is working to make sure no young person is ignored when they speak up about pain. We’re distributing educational kits to schools, pediatric clinics, and youth centres across the country — complete with posters, pamphlets, and lesson plans for teachers.

These resources teach early recognition of Endometriosis, how to describe pain to healthcare providers, and how parents can advocate within the healthcare system. Because every daughter, niece, student, and friend deserves to be believed.

Signs That Shouldn’t Be Ignored

If your teen experiences any of the following, it’s worth asking for medical advice:

• Periods that cause vomiting, fainting, or missing school/work

  
  

• Pain between cycles or during urination/bowel movements

  
  

• Chronic fatigue, nausea, or pain during physical activity

  
  

• Family history of Endometriosis or severe menstrual issues

  
  

A Message to Young People

You are not “too young” to have Endometriosis. You are not dramatic. Your pain is valid, and your voice matters. Speaking up early can help you take control of your health and your future, and that’s what Our Daughters Matter is all about.

Join the Movement

If you’re a parent, teacher, or healthcare provider who wants to receive our Our Daughters Matter education kit, or if your school would like to participate, email admin@endometriosiscanada.org to get involved.

Together, we can make early recognition the rule — not the exception.