Puberty is a transitional period between childhood and adulthood during which sexual maturation occurs. Menarche, the first menstruation, is a milestone event of pubertal development in girls since it represents the onset of the female reproductive capacity. Menarche, a late event during puberty, usually occurs 2-2.5 years after pubertal onset and is characterized by breast enlargement and pubic hair development. Several studies have reported that the mean age at menarche decreased from 17 years in 1840 to approximately 12 years in 2000 in most developed countries. According to a recent review, the age at menarche has remained stable over the past few decades [1]. Age at menarche varies among countries, generations, and races. For most girls, this natural process begins during puberty and continues monthly until menopause. While it’s a normal part of growing up, it often arrives without the knowledge, support, or dignity every girl deserves.
Menarche (first menstrual bleeding) serves as a critical marker of puberty, and the associated physiological, behavioural and social changes which collectively symbolise sexual maturation, adulthood and fertility. From the adoption of adult behaviours and the beginning of sexual life to the shame and stigma which could lead to dropping out of school, the process and timing of puberty can have dramatic consequences in girls’ lives.1–4 Timing and determinants of the age at menarche are key to understanding the potential linkages with health outcomes later on in life and also important because of the repercussions on sexual initiation and age at marriage and consequently fertility. Age at menarche is such a fundamental determinant of women’s physiological development that it has been suggested in the literature that it should be used as a key global health indicator.5
The onset of menstruation—commonly known as menarche—varies significantly from one individual to another. While the average age ranges between 12 and 15, some girls may begin as early as age 10. This variation is shaped by a combination of biological and environmental factors, including:
- Genetic Influence – A family history of early or late menstruation often mirrors itself in the next generation.
- Nutritional Status – Adequate nutrition supports timely hormonal development, whereas chronic undernutrition may delay menarche.
- Level of Physical Activity – High-intensity sports and physical exertion, particularly in young athletes, can contribute to a delayed onset of periods.
- Body Composition – Higher body fat levels are associated with earlier menstruation, while low body fat can postpone it.
Research in low-income countries (LICs) shows that early menarche (before the age of 12 or 13) has been linked to an increased risk of a number of adverse reproductive health outcomes, including breast cancer,6 endometrial cancer7 and spontaneous abortion8 among others. Early puberty has also been associated with mental health problems in middle adolescence, with the longer-term impact unknown.9 Eating disorders and lack of self-esteem are often associated with an early age at menarche.
It is crucial to recognize the unique experiences of preteen girls as they begin menstruating and provide both emotional and practical support. This transitional phase—no longer a young child but not yet fully an adolescent—is marked by significant physical and emotional changes. For many, this is when they start their monthly periods. Like older teenagers, preteens can experience a wide range of emotions and mood swings. A nurturing and understanding environment helps them navigate these changes in a healthy and positive way. Families, schools, and the broader community can play a vital role in easing this transition. At Blooming World International, we understand that supporting girls during early menstruation is critical—not just for their physical health, but for their emotional resilience, academic continuity, and long-term confidence.
Here's how we’re making a difference:
Candid Conversations – We create safe spaces where girls can talk freely about menstruation without shame or fear. Open dialogue helps normalize periods and empower girls to seek help when needed. Breaking the stigma around menstruation is key to normalizing the experience for all. Creating supportive spaces for open discussions with both boys and girls helps reduce misinformation, anxiety, and fear related to periods, fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding. These conversations can take place in both formal and informal settings—through regular school curricula, workshops, or community forums. Providing accurate, age-appropriate menstrual education prepares girls physically and emotionally for menstruation, teaches proper menstrual hygiene management and available sanitary options, and helps dispel common myths and misconceptions surrounding menstruation.
Periods don’t just affect physical health—they impact emotional well-being, academic progress, and self-worth. The shame and stigma around menstruation teach girls to feel “dirty,” “weak,” or “less-than.” This isn’t just unfair. It’s a human rights issue.
At Blooming World International, we see menstrual health as a gateway to gender equity. When a girl can manage her period with dignity, she can walk into a classroom with confidence. When she understands her body, she’s better equipped to make informed decisions about her future. When her community normalizes the conversation, she is safer, stronger, and more empowered.
In Conclusion, Supporting girls during early menstruation is essential to their overall well-being and development. By fostering open conversations, providing accurate education, and creating a compassionate environment, families, schools, and communities can help preteen girls navigate this important transition with confidence and dignity. Together, we can break down stigma and empower young girls to embrace their changing bodies and health with understanding and support.