Girls are getting their first periods at an earlier age than they did in the past. The average age of menarche, the first menstrual period, has decreased from 12.5 years in the 1950s and '60s to 11.9 years in the 2000s. While the exact cause is unknown, researchers point to several factors contributing to this trend.
- Childhood obesity: Recent studies suggest that girls who are overweight or obese tend to start their periods earlier. The correlation between early puberty and obesity is significant, suggesting that childhood obesity might be a contributing factor to earlier menarche.
- Environmental pollutants: Researchers are investigating the potential role of environmental pollutants in early puberty, as exposure to certain chemicals has been linked to endocrine disruption, which could affect hormone levels and trigger puberty earlier.
- Dietary patterns: Some studies suggest that dietary patterns, such as the consumption of processed foods and high-sugar diets, might influence the timing of puberty.
- Psychological stress: Stress and adverse childhood experiences are also being investigated as possible factors, as chronic stress can have hormonal effects that may influence puberty onset.
It is important to note that the exact cause of earlier periods is not fully understood and likely a combination of factors. More research is needed to understand the interplay of these factors and develop strategies to address the concerns associated with early puberty.
