Historically, girls typically experienced their first period between 16 and 18 years old. However, today, the average age of menarche is between 8-12 years old. This change has implications on the health, education, and social development of the girl child.
According to a study published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health (2020), several factors have contributed to this shift. Improved nutrition has played a crucial role, with better access to nutritious food leading to enhanced overall health and earlier physical development. Additionally, changes in lifestyle—such as reduced physical activity, increased body mass index, and exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals—have also been linked to the earlier start of menstruation. These combined influences have contributed to the global decline in the average age at which girls experience their first period (Prentice, P. & Viner, R. M., 2020. Pubertal timing and adult health and well-being: A cross-national comparison. The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health, 4(4), pp.249–258).
As menstruation now begins earlier, it is critical that girls receive timely, age-appropriate education about their reproductive health, personal hygiene, and bodily changes. Equally important, schools and communities must create safe and supportive environments where menstruation is discussed openly and managed with dignity. By acknowledging the factors behind this shift and responding with informed policies and practices, we can better equip girls to navigate puberty with confidence, supporting their overall health, education, and long-term well-being.
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