AS a mother of a 10-year-old girl, I've already spoken at length to her about menstruation and what to expect when her time comes.

Her school has also taken the initiative to educate female pupils about what menstruation entails and how to prepare for it.

While most girls get their first period around age 12 or 13, it is not uncommon today for a 10-year-old to experience it.

Most mums are aware that their daughters are getting their first periods at a younger age and in some cases, this leads to anxiety as young girls may be unprepared to face such changes in their lives.

Aurelius Hospital Nilai consultant paediatrician Dr Kama Azura Jamil says some girls may experience menstruation as early as 9. Therefore, parents must start educating their daughters about menstruation and get them prepared at an early age. But is this trend normal or a cause for concern?

Dr Kama says several studies have reported that the age of menarche, or first menstruation, has fallen compared with previous decades. It used to be 17 way back in 1840, and was 12 in 2000.

The decrease in menarche age can be explained by environmental factors, such as nutritional status and the prevalence of obesity.

The age of menarche also varies among countries, generations and ethnicity, she explains.

Recent reports have highlighted the fact that the average age for first menstruation among girls in the United States, for example, has dropped from 12 to 10, with some girls even getting their periods at age 6.

This has raised questions about why it's happening and its impact on the health of young girls.

"Studies have shown that girls who get their menarche earlier have a high risk of experiencing depression and becoming antisocial as they grow into adulthood.

"Here, parents must play their role in observing any behavioural change and identify their daughters' struggles as they go through this phase," says Dr Kama.

In terms of physical health, some studies have shown that girls who start their periods before age 12 have an increased risk of heart disease and stroke later in life, she adds. However, more studies are needed to prove the accuracy of this correlation.

Young girls are experiencing their first periods at an earlier age.
Young girls are experiencing their first periods at an earlier age.

THE DIET FACTOR

Much has also been written about the impact of the modern diet on early menstruation, especially hormones in food.

Dr Kama says children consuming a diet rich in processed food, meat and fast food may experience disruption to their overall development.

Unhealthy lifestyles and habits can lead to obesity and increase the risk of other health issues.

"No specific areas can determine whether girls will get their periods earlier, but it is crucial for parents to monitor their food intake and feed them a well-balanced diet to have an overall balanced growth."

Physical activity is also essential at this stage. Obesity is a common health issue in Malaysia, with half the adult population either overweight or obese.

Dr Kama says Malaysia also has a high percentage (11.5 per cent) of obese children (between 6 months and 12 years).

Young girls with obesity may experience irregular menstrual cycles as studies have found a correlation between an increase in menstrual cycle irregularity and overweight girls, she explains.

Strong evidence has also revealed that emotional stress in a family can jump-start puberty.

The belief is that children who grow up in stressful and potentially dangerous conditions have a better chance of passing down their genes if they reached sexual maturity earlier.

Dr Kama says in Malaysia, the average age of a girl getting her first period is still 12.

Parents must properly educate their daughters to accept this biological function and be prepared for menstruation.

"We need to break the taboo and start normalising the conversation around menstruation.

"Parents should educate their daughters about menstrual care and hygiene. Talking about this might be uncomfortable, but young girls need reliable and valuable information. It's best if it comes from parents."

With the correct information, they can take charge of the situation should they get their first period during school hours or while outdoors.

Dr Kama says young girls need reliable and valuable information about menstruation.
Dr Kama says young girls need reliable and valuable information about menstruation.

START TALKING

Here are some conversation starters to help parents talk about menstruation with their daughters.

• Start with the basics — take the time to explain what to expect. Provide a simple and clear explanation that their first few periods will be light and the colour might be red, brown or black, which is normal.

• Educate them on the different types of menstrual products and the purpose of each item.

• Stress the importance of menstrual hygiene and the right way to dispose of waste.

• Remind them that everyone has different physical experiences and levels of period pain, and provide them with tips on how to overcome these.

• Make it educational and fun. Create a period kit/pouch and stock it with sanitary pads and clean underwear. Keep the pouch in their school bag or for use when they are away from home.

Talk to your child and ensure she’s well prepared to face menstruation.
Talk to your child and ensure she’s well prepared to face menstruation.

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