HOW PUBESCENT CHANGES AFFECT GIRLS AND BOYS. MENARCHE AND THELARCHE
Menarche is occurring at younger and younger ages. In 1840, the average age for menarche was between 17 and 18. Today, the average age that girls have their first period is 12.5! It is no longer unusual for girls to enter menarche at the age of 10. Physiologists believe that earlier menarche is related to better nutrition, which leads to increased amounts of body fat in modern girls. The hormones responsible for the menstrual cycle are stored in body fat.
On the other hand, many young women today are very athletic and maintain a naturally lean body. Menarche may be much later for them. Even after menarche, their menstruation may be very irregular and light.
The range of years during which menarche may happen is very wide. It is difficult to predict when it will happen. Family members, educators, and clinicians may not anticipate it in time to counsel young women about the changes that are happening in their bodies. This is one of the reasons menarche may come as a complete surprise to many young women—especially if it is early.
Girls who have early menarche are likely to start having erotic dreams earlier than other girls. They are more likely to have sexual intercourse at younger ages. They need earlier counseling about sexuality, safer sex, and birth control.
Girls may experience anxiety about breast development. The beginning of breast development is called thelarche. For some, breast development seems to happen too soon and is embarrassing. Others are frustrated that it isn’t happening soon enough. Many worry that their breasts won’t be the size they want or expect. Many wonder when it is appropriate for them to wear a bra for the first time.
Menarche, thelarche, and other events during puberty are likely to be accompanied by many uncertainties. Girls have a lot to adjust to, whether puberty is early or late. Menstruation may occur very irregularly. Early periods may be quite uncomfortable or even painful. Often in puberty, girls have a white, sticky vaginal discharge called leukorrhea. It may upset girls who do not know it is normal.
It is also normal for one breast to develop faster than another. But the experience may be unsettling. Likewise, the onset of sexual desires and dreams may be very confusing for girls who don’t know what to expect. Some girls may become unnerved by the experience and may need counseling. Girls who have been prepared with helpful information may have a much more positive experience with menarche, thelarche, and the other events of puberty.
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