Yes, your daughter will likely still grow, but her growth will slow down after starting her period at age 9.
Understanding Growth After Menarche
The onset of menstruation, also known as menarche, marks a significant stage in a girl's development. While it doesn't mean growth stops immediately, it does signal a slowdown in the rapid growth phase.
Growth After First Period
- Reference Information: Girls usually stop growing taller about 2 years after starting their menstrual period.
- Growth Spurt: Before menarche, girls typically experience a growth spurt, averaging about 3 inches (8 cm) per year.
- Post-Menarche Growth: After starting her period, growth usually continues for approximately two more years. The rate of growth will typically decrease during this time.
Factors Affecting Growth
While the reference states that girls usually stop growing about 2 years after their period, it's important to remember that individual timelines can vary:
- Genetics: Family history plays a crucial role in determining a girl's final height.
- Nutrition: Proper nutrition, especially during puberty, is essential for optimal growth.
- Overall Health: General health conditions can affect growth patterns.
- Early vs. Late Maturation: Girls who start their periods earlier may complete their growth sooner than those who start later.
What to Expect
Here's what you can expect for your daughter who has her period at 9:
- Continued Growth: She will likely continue to grow for around two more years, until approximately age 11.
- Slower Rate: The pace of her growth will probably be slower than during her pre-menstrual growth spurt.
- Monitoring: Regular check-ups with a pediatrician can help monitor her growth and development.
Conclusion
While her rapid growth spurt may be slowing down, it is normal for your daughter to still grow taller after her first period. Based on the provided reference, you can expect that she will likely grow for another two years, though the rate will be slower.
