Insights from Dr. Amal Abdelaziz
In the UAE, a noticeable trend is emerging: girls are starting their periods at increasingly younger ages. Contrary to assumptions of improved health, this shift is largely attributed to rising obesity and unhealthy lifestyle choices. Dr. Amal Abdelaziz, Consultant and Head of the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology at Thumbay University Hospital, outlines the key causes behind this phenomenon and offers effective management strategies for addressing it.
Several lifestyle choices contribute to this shift, including unhealthy eating practices, formula feeding in infancy, increased body fat, exposure to hormone-disrupting chemicals, and sugary drinks. These factors highlight the complex interplay between lifestyle and biology, urging us to address these influences to prevent early puberty in girls.
What’s the Average Age of Menarche Now?
The journey from childhood to adolescence in girls is marked by several key stages: thelarche (breast development), pubarche (development of pubic and axillary hair), and finally, menarche (the start of menstruation). Globally, the average age for these milestones varies between 8 and 14 years, influenced by ethnicity and environmental factors.
How Young Can It Get?
While normal early periods occur around age 10 to 12, precocious puberty, defined as puberty starting before age 8, is a pathological condition requiring medical attention. Early puberty or periods might hinder normal height attainment and pose risks for future health issues, including increased cancer risk.
Typical Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Younger girls starting menstruation usually have milder symptoms, but periods can be irregular, with heavier or prolonged bleeding. If symptoms significantly affect quality of life, medical intervention might be necessary. Conditions like intense menstrual pain, heavy bleeding, endometriosis, fibroids, and recurring infections necessitate thorough evaluation and tailored treatment, including medication, hormonal therapy, and sometimes surgery.
Ensuring Wellness in Young Girls
Managing wellness in young girls requires awareness of the factors influencing early puberty and addressing them through healthier lifestyle choices. Regular medical check-ups, balanced nutrition, and understanding the signs of abnormal menstrual health are essential steps towards ensuring the well-being of young girls as they navigate these significant life changes.