Concerns About Early Puberty and Growth Stagnation in Girls

Developmental issues in young girls?

Hello Dr.
Zhao, my daughter is currently in the sixth grade.
She started developing and got her first period in the second semester of fourth grade, at which time she was 148 cm tall.
Now, in sixth grade, her height is still 148 cm.
Before fourth grade, she grew taller every year, but after starting her period, her height growth has stagnated, and only her weight and breast size have increased.
I'm wondering if she will grow taller again, if this is considered early development, and if there are any remedies available.
Thank you, Billy Hsu.

Billy Xu, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/02/11

Dr. Zhao Yongkang reply Pediatrics

Hello Billy Hsu,
You can bring your child to see a pediatric endocrinologist for growth hormone or related endocrine evaluations to determine the underlying cause.
Our hospital has a pediatric endocrinology clinic, and Dr.
Niu Daoming sees patients on the afternoon of the second Thursday of each month.
In February, that will be on February 13th in the afternoon.

Thank you for your message.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely,
Zhao Yongkang
Director of Pediatrics, Hsinchu Hospital

Reply Date: 2003/02/11

More Info

Hello Billy,
Thank you for your question regarding your daughter's early puberty and growth concerns. It’s understandable to be worried about your daughter’s growth, especially since she started her menstrual cycle in the fourth grade and has not seen an increase in height since then.
Early puberty, or precocious puberty, is defined as the onset of secondary sexual characteristics before the age of 8 in girls. In your daughter's case, starting her development in the fourth grade at around 10 years old is somewhat early, but not excessively so. The onset of menstruation typically indicates that a girl is entering the later stages of puberty, which can sometimes lead to a plateau in height growth. This is because the growth plates in the bones, which are responsible for height increase, may close earlier in girls who experience early puberty.

When a girl starts menstruating, it often signifies that her body is transitioning into adulthood, and this can lead to a period of rapid growth followed by a slowdown. In many cases, girls will experience a growth spurt shortly before their first period, but after menstruation begins, growth may slow down significantly. This is due to the hormonal changes that occur during puberty, which can affect growth plate closure.
In your daughter’s situation, it’s essential to monitor her growth closely. While she is currently at 148 cm, it’s possible that she may still have some growth potential left, especially if her growth plates have not yet fully closed. The average height for girls can vary significantly, and many girls continue to grow into their late teens. Factors such as genetics, nutrition, and overall health play crucial roles in determining final adult height.

If you are concerned about her growth stagnation, it would be advisable to consult with a pediatric endocrinologist. They can assess her growth patterns, evaluate her bone age through X-rays, and determine whether her growth plates are still open. If they are still open, there may be interventions available to help encourage growth, such as hormone therapy, though this is typically reserved for specific medical indications.

In terms of dietary and lifestyle considerations, ensuring that your daughter has a balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and other essential nutrients is crucial for bone health and growth. Regular physical activity can also promote healthy growth and development. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight is important, as being overweight can sometimes exacerbate issues related to early puberty.

Lastly, it’s important to provide emotional support to your daughter during this time. Early puberty can come with its own set of challenges, including body image concerns and social pressures. Encouraging open communication about her feelings and experiences can help her navigate this transitional phase more comfortably.

In summary, while your daughter’s early onset of menstruation and subsequent height stagnation may raise concerns, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. There may still be opportunities for growth, and addressing any underlying issues early on can be beneficial for her overall health and development.

Best wishes,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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