microbiome signatures definitions

Did you know?

Menarche does not indicate that the body’s reproductive system is fully developed or perfectly regulated. Even though menarche marks the beginning of menstruation, girls may experience irregular periods for the first few years. It takes time for the body to adjust and for hormones to find their rhythm!

Menarche

Researched by:

  • Divine Aleru ID
    Divine Aleru

    User avatarI am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.

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August 15, 2025

Menarche marks the first occurrence of menstruation, signaling a pivotal moment in a young girl’s transition to womanhood. Understanding this process helps to shed light on the hormonal, physical, and emotional changes that accompany puberty. Explore the importance of menarche, factors that influence its timing, and how it shapes women’s health throughout their lives.

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Researched by:

  • Divine Aleru ID
    Divine Aleru

    User avatarI am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.

    Read More

Last Updated: 2025-08-15

Microbiome Signatures identifies and validates condition-specific microbiome shifts and interventions to accelerate clinical translation. Our multidisciplinary team supports clinicians, researchers, and innovators in turning microbiome science into actionable medicine.

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Divine Aleru

I am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.

Overview

Menarche is the term used to describe a female adolescent’s first menstrual period, marking a significant milestone in female puberty and reproductive health.[1] This event occurs when the female body reaches the appropriate stage of physical development, characterized by the onset of menstruation. Menarche is often seen as a key moment in a young woman’s transition from childhood to adolescence, and it is culturally and biologically significant as it signals fertility and reproductive maturity.[1] The timing of menarche is influenced by various genetic, environmental, and health factors.[2] In many cultures, menarche is also a rite of passage that signifies a shift in the roles and responsibilities of young women, impacting their identity and social standing.

Age of Onset

The average age for the onset of menarche is around 12 to 13 years, though this can vary widely depending on geographical, socio-economic, and cultural factors.[3] The age at which menarche occurs is influenced by genetics, nutrition, body composition, and environmental stressors.[4] In developed countries with better access to nutrition and healthcare, the average age of menarche has gradually decreased over the past century, with many girls experiencing their first period between the ages of 11 and 14. However, early or late onset of menarche may be indicative of underlying health issues and should be carefully monitored. In many African and Asian countries, the age of menarche tends to be slightly higher due to variations in nutrition, health conditions, and environmental influences.[4] An early onset of menarche, occurring before the age of 11, may be associated with a higher risk for certain health problems, including cardiovascular disease and breast cancer.[5][6] Late menarche, typically defined as the absence of menstruation by age 16, can indicate potential endocrine or nutritional issues and may require medical intervention.

Hormonal Changes and Pubertal Development

Menarche occurs as part of the broader process of puberty, during which the body undergoes significant hormonal and physical transformations. The hormonal changes responsible for menarche primarily involve the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which regulates the production of sex hormones such as estrogen and progesterone.[7] The initiation of menarche is typically triggered by the activation of the hypothalamus, which begins secreting gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) in pulses.[8] This, in turn, stimulates the pituitary gland to release follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which act on the ovaries to promote the maturation of eggs and the secretion of estrogen.[9]

The increase in estrogen levels is important for the development of secondary sexual characteristics, including the enlargement of the breasts, the growth of pubic and underarm hair, and the widening of the hips. These physical changes often precede menarche, with most girls experiencing breast development and pubic hair growth several months to years before their first period.[10] The onset of menarche marks the final stage in the reproductive maturation process, but it is still followed by other developmental milestones such as the regulation of menstrual cycles and the stabilization of ovulatory function. Menarche does not signify the immediate onset of regular and predictable menstrual cycles. Most girls will experience irregular periods for the first year or two after menarche as their hormonal cycles stabilize.[11] These early cycles may be anovulatory, meaning they do not involve the release of an egg, and can result in unpredictable and sometimes heavy bleeding. Over time, as the body matures, the menstrual cycle becomes more regular, with ovulation occurring roughly every 28 days in most women.[12]

The Menstrual Cycle

The menstrual cycle consists of four primary phases: the menstrual phase, follicular phase, ovulation, and luteal phase. These phases are regulated by fluctuating hormone levels that control the release of eggs from the ovaries, the preparation of the uterine lining for a potential pregnancy, and the shedding of that lining if pregnancy does not occur. These phases of the menstrual cycle are essential for reproductive health, but the irregularity of the early cycles post-menarche can often make this process challenging for young individuals.

PhaseDescription
Menstrual PhaseThe beginning of the menstrual cycle. The uterine lining (endometrium) is shed if fertilization has not occurred. Bleeding lasts between 3 to 7 days and marks the first day of the cycle.[13]
Follicular PhaseBegins after the menstrual phase. Characterized by the growth and maturation of follicles in the ovaries. The hormone FSH promotes follicle development, and only one becomes dominant, maturing into an egg.[14]
OvulationThe release of a mature egg from the dominant follicle into the fallopian tube. This is the most fertile phase of the menstrual cycle. LH surges just before ovulation, triggering the release of the egg.[15]
Luteal PhaseAfter ovulation, the ruptured follicle becomes the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone to maintain the uterine lining. If the egg isn’t fertilized, the corpus luteum disintegrates, leading to a drop in progesterone and the shedding of the uterine lining.[16]

Physical Changes Leading to Menarche

Before the onset of menarche, a series of physical transformations occur in a girl’s body, marking the transition from childhood to adolescence. These changes, driven primarily by the rise in estrogen levels, are essential components of the broader process of puberty.[17] Puberty is a time of significant physical, emotional, and hormonal changes that prepare the body for the possibility of reproduction. Menarche, the first menstrual period, signifies the culmination of these changes, although many of the physical transformations begin several years before menstruation occurs.

The most notable physical changes leading up to menarche include the development of secondary sexual characteristics such as breast development (thelarche), the growth of pubic and underarm hair (pubarche), and the increase in body fat, particularly in areas like the hips and thighs.[18] These changes reflect the body’s preparation for reproductive maturity and can vary in timing and intensity between individuals.

Pathophysiology of Early Menarche

Early menarche, defined as the onset of menstruation before the age of 11, has become more common in some regions due to various environmental, genetic, and lifestyle factors. This phenomenon is a significant concern because the timing of menarche can have long-term implications for a girl’s health, development, and well-being. The pathophysiology of early menarche involves complex hormonal interactions, primarily involving the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which regulates the release of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. Premature activation of this axis leads to the early onset of puberty, including breast development, pubic hair growth, and ultimately menarche. While this process typically begins around 8 to 13 years, any disruption or acceleration in the hormonal regulation can cause early menarche.

Factors Contributing to Early Menarche

Several factors can contribute to the early activation of the HPG axis and thus lead to early menarche. These factors include genetics, environmental influences, body composition, and psychosocial stressors. Below is a more detailed breakdown of these factors:

FactorDescription
Obesity and High Body FatHigh levels of body fat, particularly visceral fat, can increase estrogen production, as adipose tissue acts as an estrogen source. Increased estrogen accelerates puberty.[19]
Environmental Endocrine DisruptorsExposure to chemicals, such as phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), found in plastics, pesticides, and cosmetics, can interfere with endocrine function.[20]
Psychosocial StressHigh levels of stress, especially in childhood, can impact hormonal regulation, including increased cortisol levels, which influence the timing of puberty.[21]
Diet and NutritionDiets high in processed foods, sugar, and fat, and poor in essential nutrients, can contribute to earlier puberty. Proper nutrition, on the other hand, may delay puberty.[22]

Early menarche can lead to various health implications, including an increased risk of breast cancer, as women who experience it have higher lifetime exposure to estrogen, which may contribute to the development of breast cancer.[23][24] Girls who mature earlier than their peers may face psychological and social challenges, such as feelings of isolation, anxiety, or low self-esteem, with the psychological burden being particularly heavy during early adolescence.[25] Early menarche is associated with a higher risk of metabolic issues, including obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome in adulthood.[26]

Pathophysiology of Late Menarche

Late menarche, typically defined as the absence of menstruation by the age of 16, is much less common but may signal underlying medical conditions or disruptions in the normal development of puberty. The delay in menarche can be caused by various factors that interfere with the body’s ability to trigger puberty, including hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, and chronic illnesses.

Factors Contributing to Late Menarche

Late menarche is often the result of delayed activation of the HPG axis, which may be due to genetics, low body fat, chronic illnesses, or other factors that inhibit the normal progression of puberty.

FactorDescription
MalnutritionGirls with insufficient body fat or inadequate nutrition have low estrogen levels, which can delay puberty. Estrogen is necessary for triggering the menstrual cycle.[27]
Chronic IllnessesConditions such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, and chronic gastrointestinal disorders can disrupt normal pubertal development by altering hormone levels or nutrition.[28]
Intense Physical ActivityExcessive exercise or athletic training, especially in sports like gymnastics or ballet, can interfere with hormonal balance and delay puberty.[29]
Psychosocial FactorsStress and emotional factors, particularly in the absence of a stable support system, may affect hormonal regulation and delay the onset of menstruation.

Late menarche may not immediately pose significant health risks, it can indicate underlying issues that require attention. It may be associated with chronic health conditions such as hormonal imbalances or metabolic disorders, which could necessitate medical intervention.[30] Some girls with late menarche may experience irregular menstrual cycles, potentially affecting their fertility in the future, making it essential for healthcare providers to monitor these cases closely.[31][32]

Emotional and Psychological Experiences

In addition to the physical changes, the lead-up to menarche is often accompanied by emotional and psychological shifts. Adolescents may experience mood swings, heightened emotional sensitivity, and increased anxiety or stress as they adjust to the hormonal changes occurring within their bodies.[33] These emotional changes are influenced by the surge in estrogen and progesterone, which can impact neurotransmitter function in the brain, leading to fluctuations in mood and behavior. Some girls may feel excitement, pride, or curiosity about the onset of menarche, while others may feel apprehension or embarrassment.[34] The social and cultural context in which menarche occurs can significantly impact how it is experienced emotionally. In cultures where menstruation is stigmatized or seen as a taboo subject, the onset of menarche may lead to feelings of shame or discomfort.[35] Parents, educators, and healthcare professionals must provide emotional support and reassurance during this time to help ease any anxieties surrounding menarche.

Research Feed

Factors associated with age at menarche, menstrual knowledge, and hygiene practices among schoolgirls in Sharjah, UAE
June 14, 2024
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Alias iure reprehenderit aut accusantium. Molestiae dolore suscipit. Necessitatibus eum quaerat. Repudiandae suscipit quo necessitatibus. Voluptatibus ullam nulla temporibus nobis. Atque eaque sed totam est assumenda. Porro modi soluta consequuntur veritatis excepturi minus delectus reprehenderit est. Eveniet labore ut quas minima aliquid quibusdam. Vitae possimus fuga praesentium eveniet debitis exercitationem deleniti.

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Putting menarche and girls into the global population health agenda
March 26, 2015
/

Alias iure reprehenderit aut accusantium. Molestiae dolore suscipit. Necessitatibus eum quaerat. Repudiandae suscipit quo necessitatibus. Voluptatibus ullam nulla temporibus nobis. Atque eaque sed totam est assumenda. Porro modi soluta consequuntur veritatis excepturi minus delectus reprehenderit est. Eveniet labore ut quas minima aliquid quibusdam. Vitae possimus fuga praesentium eveniet debitis exercitationem deleniti.

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Variations in the age of onset of menarche among inhabitants of rural and urban areas in Delta State, South-South Nigeria
April 18, 2023
/
Menarche
Menarche

Did you know?

Menarche does not indicate that the body’s reproductive system is fully developed or perfectly regulated. Even though menarche marks the beginning of menstruation, girls may experience irregular periods for the first few years. It takes time for the body to adjust and for hormones to find their rhythm!

Alias iure reprehenderit aut accusantium. Molestiae dolore suscipit. Necessitatibus eum quaerat. Repudiandae suscipit quo necessitatibus. Voluptatibus ullam nulla temporibus nobis. Atque eaque sed totam est assumenda. Porro modi soluta consequuntur veritatis excepturi minus delectus reprehenderit est. Eveniet labore ut quas minima aliquid quibusdam. Vitae possimus fuga praesentium eveniet debitis exercitationem deleniti.

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Interpretation of reproductive hormones before, during and after the pubertal transition—identifying health and disordered puberty
August 8, 2021
/
Menarche
Menarche

Did you know?

Menarche does not indicate that the body’s reproductive system is fully developed or perfectly regulated. Even though menarche marks the beginning of menstruation, girls may experience irregular periods for the first few years. It takes time for the body to adjust and for hormones to find their rhythm!

Alias iure reprehenderit aut accusantium. Molestiae dolore suscipit. Necessitatibus eum quaerat. Repudiandae suscipit quo necessitatibus. Voluptatibus ullam nulla temporibus nobis. Atque eaque sed totam est assumenda. Porro modi soluta consequuntur veritatis excepturi minus delectus reprehenderit est. Eveniet labore ut quas minima aliquid quibusdam. Vitae possimus fuga praesentium eveniet debitis exercitationem deleniti.

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Microbiome Insiders can read two study summaries for any topic on Microbiome.

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Physiology of pubertal development in females
August 22, 2019
/
Menarche
Menarche

Did you know?

Menarche does not indicate that the body’s reproductive system is fully developed or perfectly regulated. Even though menarche marks the beginning of menstruation, girls may experience irregular periods for the first few years. It takes time for the body to adjust and for hormones to find their rhythm!

Alias iure reprehenderit aut accusantium. Molestiae dolore suscipit. Necessitatibus eum quaerat. Repudiandae suscipit quo necessitatibus. Voluptatibus ullam nulla temporibus nobis. Atque eaque sed totam est assumenda. Porro modi soluta consequuntur veritatis excepturi minus delectus reprehenderit est. Eveniet labore ut quas minima aliquid quibusdam. Vitae possimus fuga praesentium eveniet debitis exercitationem deleniti.

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Microbiome Insiders can read two study summaries for any topic on Microbiome.

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Gut microbiome associations with breast cancer risk factors and tumor characteristics: a pilot study
May 28, 2020
/
Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer

Did You Know?

The Left Breast Is Slightly More Susceptible. Breast cancer is about 5–10% more common in the left breast than the right. Researchers are still exploring why this asymmetry exists.

Alias iure reprehenderit aut accusantium. Molestiae dolore suscipit. Necessitatibus eum quaerat. Repudiandae suscipit quo necessitatibus. Voluptatibus ullam nulla temporibus nobis. Atque eaque sed totam est assumenda. Porro modi soluta consequuntur veritatis excepturi minus delectus reprehenderit est. Eveniet labore ut quas minima aliquid quibusdam. Vitae possimus fuga praesentium eveniet debitis exercitationem deleniti.

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Onset of natural menopause in African American women
October 10, 2011
/
Menopause
Menopause

Did You Know?

Osteoporosis affects one in three women over 50. Estrogen decline during menopause accelerates bone loss, making weight-bearing exercises, calcium, and vitamin D essential for maintaining bone health. Early intervention can reduce fracture risk, and the gut microbiome may play a role in improving bone density.

Alias iure reprehenderit aut accusantium. Molestiae dolore suscipit. Necessitatibus eum quaerat. Repudiandae suscipit quo necessitatibus. Voluptatibus ullam nulla temporibus nobis. Atque eaque sed totam est assumenda. Porro modi soluta consequuntur veritatis excepturi minus delectus reprehenderit est. Eveniet labore ut quas minima aliquid quibusdam. Vitae possimus fuga praesentium eveniet debitis exercitationem deleniti.

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Update History

2025-08-14 14:27:43

Menarche major

published

Breast Cancer

Traditionally linked to genetic predispositions and environmental exposures, emerging evidence highlights the microbiome as a critical and underappreciated factor influencing breast cancer progression, immune response, and treatment outcomes.

Women’s Health

Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.

Women’s Health

Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.

Women’s Health

Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.

Menarche

Menarche marks the first occurrence of menstruation, signaling a pivotal moment in a young girl's transition to womanhood. Understanding this process helps to shed light on the hormonal, physical, and emotional changes that accompany puberty. Explore the importance of menarche, factors that influence its timing, and how it shapes women's health throughout their lives.

Women’s Health

Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.

Menarche

Menarche marks the first occurrence of menstruation, signaling a pivotal moment in a young girl's transition to womanhood. Understanding this process helps to shed light on the hormonal, physical, and emotional changes that accompany puberty. Explore the importance of menarche, factors that influence its timing, and how it shapes women's health throughout their lives.

Women’s Health

Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.

Menarche

Menarche marks the first occurrence of menstruation, signaling a pivotal moment in a young girl's transition to womanhood. Understanding this process helps to shed light on the hormonal, physical, and emotional changes that accompany puberty. Explore the importance of menarche, factors that influence its timing, and how it shapes women's health throughout their lives.

Women’s Health

Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.

Breast Cancer

Traditionally linked to genetic predispositions and environmental exposures, emerging evidence highlights the microbiome as a critical and underappreciated factor influencing breast cancer progression, immune response, and treatment outcomes.

Women’s Health

Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.

Menopause

Menopause impacts many aspects of health, including the gut microbiome, weight management, and hormone balance. Diet, probiotics, intermittent fasting, and HRT offer effective management strategies.

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Forman MR, Mangini LD, Thelus-Jean R, Hayward MD.

Life-course origins of the ages at menarche and menopause.

Adolesc Health Med Ther. 2013 Jan 18;4:1-21

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Forman MR, Mangini LD, Thelus-Jean R, Hayward MD.

Life-course origins of the ages at menarche and menopause.

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