If it feels like teens are starting their periods earlier than they used to, you're not imagining it. Over the past century, the average age for a first period (called menarche) has dropped from around 16 or 17 to 12 years old in many parts of the world. For some, it can happen as early as 8 or 9.
This shift has left many parents, caregivers, and teens wondering—why is this happening?
The Science Behind the Shift
There isn’t one simple answer. Researchers believe that several factors contribute to earlier periods, including:
- Improved Nutrition: Access to better food and healthcare means kids grow faster, which can trigger puberty earlier.
- Environmental Factors: Chemicals in our environment, like endocrine disruptors found in plastics and other products, may play a role in changing how our bodies regulate puberty.
- Stress and Lifestyle: Some studies suggest that stress, family dynamics, and overall lifestyle changes can impact when puberty begins.
Whatever the reason, the reality is that more young people are navigating this major milestone at a younger age, often before they feel ready.
How to Support Teens Through Early Periods
For both teens and their families, early periods can feel overwhelming. But here’s the good news: with open communication and the right tools, this transition can be much easier.
One of the most important things is to talk about periods in a way that feels normal and judgment-free, which is what we’re all about here at Saalt! Teens who understand what’s happening in their bodies, and know they can ask questions, are better equipped to handle the changes.
When it comes to managing periods, it’s also helpful to introduce teens to the variety of options available today, like menstrual cups or period underwear. As a bonus, products like period cups and discs that are made of silicone don’t have the same endocrine-disrupting plastics that tampons and pads can have. These newer products can offer comfort, confidence, and sustainability to give teens everything they need to navigate this new phase of their lives. At the end of the day, however, we feel people should manage their periods with the products they are the most comfortable with.
Shop: Period underwear for girls
Learn: How to insert a menstrual cup
A New Normal
Periods starting earlier might be the new normal, but that doesn’t mean they have to be a source of stress. By understanding the “why” behind these changes and preparing teens with the knowledge and products they need, we can help them feel empowered instead of overwhelmed.
At the end of the day, periods are just one small part of growing up, and with the right support, teens can handle them like pros, no matter when they start.
Sources:
https://epibiostat.ucsf.edu/news/what-drives-earlier-menstruation-girls
https://news.llu.edu/health-wellness/why-girls-are-starting-their-menstruation-earlier
