Hi there! I'm Dr. Emily Carter, a board-certified OB/GYN with over 15 years of experience working with women of all ages. I'm passionate about women's health, and I'm here to provide you with accurate and compassionate information about menstruation and everything related to it.

It's fantastic that you're curious about periods! It's a significant milestone in a young woman's life, marking the transition into womanhood. Now, you're asking about what age you get your period. The truth is, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. It's entirely unique to each individual, just like our fingerprints!

However, we can definitely talk about averages and ranges. Most girls get their first period, also called menarche, somewhere between the ages of 8 and 15. See that wide range? That's because several factors influence when it happens. Let me break it down for you:

* Genetics: Your genes play a big role! If your mom or sisters started their periods early or late, there's a chance your timing might be similar. It's a bit like inheriting eye color, just on the hormonal side!
* Body Weight and Composition: Reaching a healthy body weight, which includes a certain level of body fat, is essential for starting your period. Our bodies need the right building blocks, like fat stores and nutrition, to support the hormonal changes that lead to menstruation.
* Overall Health: Chronic illnesses or certain medical conditions can sometimes cause delays in menstruation. It's always a good idea to talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
* Nutrition and Exercise: Just like with body weight, getting the right nutrients and engaging in regular physical activity is crucial for overall hormonal balance. Extreme dieting or excessive exercise can sometimes impact the onset of menstruation.
* Race and Ethnicity: While the exact reasons are still being studied, research suggests that ethnicity can play a role in the timing of menarche.

Remember, even within these factors, variations are perfectly normal! It's important not to compare yourself to your friends. Some girls start earlier, some later, and that's completely okay.

If you haven't gotten your period by age 15, or if you have any concerns at all, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor. They can address any questions you might have and rule out any underlying medical conditions.

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When Periods Start. Most girls start to menstruate between ages 10 and 15 years. The average age is 12, but every girl's body has its own schedule. Although there's no one right age for a girl to get her period, there are some clues that menstruation will start soon.read more >>