Menstruation refers to the periodic shedding and bleeding of the endometrium that occurs with the cyclic changes of the ovaries. The appearance of regular menstruation is a sign of reproductive maturation and also signifies the establishment of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.
It is known that females will go through puberty in their development process. After puberty arrives, the first occurrence of menstruation is called menarche. When menarche approaches, the body will send signals.
It is well-known that after girls have their first period, their height is likely not to increase anymore. So, at what age is it best for girls to have their first period? Let’s take a look together.
5 symptoms of menarche:
1. Abdominal pain
Most females may experience occasional abdominal pain before menarche, which is generally bearable.
Usually, if there are no other discomforts accompanying mild abdominal pain in appropriate-aged females, it may indicate the onset of menarche.
2. Acne breakouts
Acne is a common symptom before menstruation for females, and it is something many females worry about. The main cause of acne breakouts is excessive sebum secretion, resulting in the slow emergence of waste and debris through the acne.
During menstruation, sebum secretion increases, making acne breakouts more likely.
3. Abnormal vaginal discharge
By observing vaginal discharge, we can analyze changes in girls’ bodies. Gradual maturation of the female reproductive system produces a fluid similar to egg white, known as vaginal discharge, which is a normal physiological phenomenon.
If the color of vaginal discharge turns red or brown, it may indicate the onset of menarche. Girls need to pay attention to this and be prepared with panty liners just in case.
4. Breast changes
If a female’s breasts start developing slowly and there is swelling with the appearance of a lump when touched, it indicates the gradual development of the breasts. In situations where menarche occurs within two years, female friends must be cautious and fully prepared!
5. Irritability
During menstruation, females tend to be irritable, and they may get angry at minor inconveniences. Under the influence of these emotions, acne breakouts are more likely to occur. What is the best age for girls to have their first period? For the sake of children, parents may want to understand this.
Under normal circumstances, the best age for girls to have their first period is between 12 and 16 years old. Having a period before the age of 10 is considered precocious, while not having a period by the age of 16 is considered delayed development.
Girls reaching menarche earlier or later is influenced by multiple factors. In most parts of our country, the age at which girls have their first period is similar.
Some girls have particularly good living conditions and abundant diets, making them physically stronger and experiencing menarche earlier. However, girls facing malnutrition issues tend to have delayed menarche.
What factors influence the onset of menarche in girls?
1: Climate and geographic location
Girls living in warm regions tend to have menarche earlier due to comfortable living conditions. In contrast, girls living in colder areas may start menstruating in their twenties; for example, Tibetan girls generally experience menarche at around 17 years old.
Geographic location has the most significant impact on the timing of menarche in girls.
2: Influence of obesity
Research shows that menarche occurs when a female’s body fat reaches 17%, and delays may occur below 15% or not occur at all.
When body fat exceeds 30%, hormonal imbalances may lead to absent or excessive menstruation and prolonged menstrual periods.
3: Influence of nutritional factors
Generally, well-developed and healthy girls experience menarche earlier. Research indicates that girls who were thin and malnourished around the age of five will, on average, reach menarche at 15 years old, while well-nourished girls at that age will reach menarche around 13 years old.
4: Pineal gland
Studies show that menarche is related to the pineal gland in the brain, specifically its secretion of melatonin, which is closely tied to light exposure and temperature.
The pineal gland secretes more melatonin in darkness, which inhibits the pituitary gland more, while less melatonin is secreted in light, resulting in weaker inhibition of the pituitary gland.
Advancements in indoor heating technologies and the widespread use of television and electric lighting have contributed to the earlier onset of menarche in females.
5 things to note for the first menstruation:
1. Stay warm
Regardless of the season, it is important to keep warm during menstruation, especially the abdominal area, to prevent abdominal pain or blood clots due to cold exposure.
Avoid using cold water during menstruation, refrain from walking barefoot on floors or sleeping on the floor, and ensure hair is dried promptly after washing to prevent colds.
2. Ensure an adequate amount of sleep
The arrival of menstruation signifies the transition to womanhood for girls, and hormone secretion gradually stabilizes. Therefore, maintaining sufficient sleep and avoiding staying up late is crucial.
Sleep quality can affect hormone balance, and currently, many girls often lack sleep due to busy academic schedules, leading to inadequate sleep and excessive stress. These factors can disrupt hormonal balance, causing menstrual irregularities and related issues.
3. Maintain a balanced diet
During menstruation, it is advisable to avoid consuming raw, cold, or stimulating foods and focus on nutritional foods. A nutritious diet helps facilitate smooth menstrual blood flow. There are various considerations during the menstrual period that need attention, including correcting unhealthy dietary habits. It is advisable to avoid carbonated beverages, especially in summer, and refrain from consuming cold beverages.
4. Choose safe and comfortable sanitary pads
There are numerous sanitary pad brands in the market, some containing medicinal ingredients that can alleviate menstrual cramps. However, it is essential to avoid pads with medicinal properties for the first menstruation to prevent allergies or dependency. Additionally, choose sanitary pads that are safe and of high quality.
5. Provide reassurance to the child
Girls may feel anxious and fearful during their first menstruation. As a mother, it is important to gently reassure them that this is a normal phenomenon and alleviate their fears. Do not dismiss this as a common occurrence, as neglecting a child’s mental health during this period can lead to lasting effects.
