Girls are menstruating earlier and earlier. From 1840 to the 1990s, the age of menarche (the onset of menstruation) in developed countries fell from 16.5 to 13 years of age. Better nutrition is one obvious (and positive) reason for earlier menarche; however, some other causes are pernicious. Below are 12 surprising reasons for early menarche.

Most of the underlying factors for early menarche are negative and related to stress, trauma, or imbalances in one's diet/environment. Furthermore, early menarche has psychological and physical ramifications for girls, including a greater risk of psychiatric disorders, higher sexual risk-taking, and a higher likelihood of physical illnesses such as cancer. Negative consequences are long-lasting and persist into adulthood.

Given these findings, underlying causes like plastics and overnutrition should be directly addressed. In addition, future research should identify ways to support girls and women who went through early menarche, for example, by providing them with mentors and resources such that they can receive social support, avoid risky behaviors, and minimize negative mental and physical health consequences.

QOSHE - 13 Surprising Reasons for Early Menarche - Karen Wu Ph.d
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13 Surprising Reasons for Early Menarche

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07.01.2024

Girls are menstruating earlier and earlier. From 1840 to the 1990s, the age of menarche (the onset of menstruation) in developed countries fell from 16.5 to 13 years of age. Better nutrition is one obvious (and positive) reason for earlier menarche; however, some other causes are........

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