Growth and Development at the Age of Menarche: A Review

Menarche is a landmark pubertal event for most females. Puberty is a process of maturation of the sexual and secondary sexual characteristics, with menarche (onset of menstrual bleeding) as a step within that process. Menarche has occurred at a younger age during the last century. This may be due to improved nutrition in the population. The average age of menarche is 13 years, but it can be as early as 8 years and as late as 18 years and still be normal. The present article is critically reviewed based on growth, development and risk factors at the age of menarche. The first sign of puberty (i.e. either breast or pubic hair development) appeared between the ages of 8.5 years and 13 years in 95 % of girls. Objective: i) To identify actual growth and development status at the age of menarche. ii) To understand risk factors associated with the age at menarche. Methodology: A structured literature review was performed to identify the growth, development and risk factors at the age of menarche.