Early puberty in girls, also known as precocious puberty, is the onset of puberty before the age of 8. This means the body begins to develop secondary sexual characteristics, such as breast development and the start of menstruation, significantly earlier than the average age.
Signs and Symptoms
Several signs indicate early puberty in girls:
- Breast development before age 7 or 8: This is often the first noticeable sign.
- Menstruation (period) before age 10: The onset of menstruation is a key indicator.
- Rapid height growth (growth spurt) before age 7 or 8: A sudden increase in height can precede other signs.
- Pubic or underarm hair: The development of pubic and underarm hair is another common symptom.
While the average age for girls to start puberty is 11, it's considered early if these changes appear considerably earlier. Research suggests girls in the U.S. are experiencing their first menstrual period about 6 months earlier on average than in the 1950s and 60s. (Source: Why are girls hitting puberty early? : Shots - Health News : NPR)
Causes
Precocious puberty can stem from various factors, including:
- Brain signals: In most cases, especially in girls, the brain sends signals for puberty to start earlier than it should, without an identifiable underlying medical problem. (Source: Precocious Puberty (for Parents) | Nemours KidsHealth)
- Environmental factors: Certain chemicals found in fragrances and other products may trigger signaling pathways that contribute to early puberty. (Source: Certain chemicals may trigger early puberty in girls | National ...)
- Underlying medical conditions: In some instances, early puberty may be caused by an underlying medical condition.
It's crucial to note that the timing of puberty varies, and some girls naturally start puberty a little earlier than others. However, if you observe any of the above signs before age 8, it's vital to consult a doctor for proper evaluation and diagnosis. (Sources: Precocious puberty - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic, Precocious (Early) Puberty in Children | Nationwide Children's ..., Early Puberty in Girls: Causes and Symptoms)
