Menstruation is a natural process that is a part of every woman’s life. The age of onset of menstruation varies from one individual to another.

However, an increasing number of girls are experiencing early puberty these days, which is becoming a cause for concern. Menstruation that starts before the age of 11 is known as early menstruation or precocious puberty. Early menstruation not only affects girls mentally but is also linked to several health risks.

What is early menstruation?

Girls usually start menstruating between the ages of 11 and 14 years old. Early menstruation is when a girl’s periods begin before the age of 11.

Early menstruation may occur due to various factors such as obesity, exposure to chemicals, stress, and genetics. Studies suggest that early menstruation may increase the risk of developing several health problems.

What are the serious health risks linked to early menstruation?

1. Breast cancer

Studies have shown that women who start menstruating early have a higher risk of developing breast cancer.

This is because early menstruation means that girls are exposed to higher levels of estrogen at a young age, which can cause the breast tissue to develop abnormally, increasing the risk of breast cancer in later life.

2. Heart disease

Early menstruation is also linked to an increased risk of heart disease.

Women who start menstruation early tend to have higher levels of “bad” cholesterol, which can cause plaque build-up in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease.

3. PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)

PCOS is a common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age. Women who start menstruating early are at a higher risk of developing PCOS. PCOS can cause irregular periods, weight gain, and infertility.

Women with PCOS are also at risk of developing diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

4. Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a painful condition in which the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside of it, causing pain and discomfort. Women who start menstruating early are at a higher risk of developing endometriosis.

5. Ovarian cancer

Early menstruation is also associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer. This is because women who start menstruation early have a longer exposure to estrogen, which can lead to the growth of cancerous cells in the ovaries.

6. Mental health problems

Early menstruation can also affect a girl’s mental health. Girls who start menstruation early are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems.

7. Shorter height

Early menstruation is also associated with shorter height in adulthood. This is because early menstruation signals the end of growth spurts, which can result in shorter height in adulthood.

8. Early menopause

Women who start menstruating early are also more likely to experience early menopause. Early menopause can lead to an increased risk of osteoporosis, heart disease, and other health problems.

Conclusion

Early menstruation is becoming more common nowadays and is a cause for concern. It is essential to take steps to prevent early menstruation and to detect and treat any underlying health conditions associated with early menstruation.

If you or your child experience early menstruation, it is crucial to speak to a healthcare provider to discuss any potential risks and to receive appropriate medical care.