This really depends how fast your body develops. Girls today are starting their periods earlier than they would have a century ago — now at around the age of twelve or thirteen.
Why Do Some Girls Start Their Periods Earlier Than Others?
Really, there's no way of knowing for sure, but experts have found links between early periods and the following factors:
- Stressful or hectic home environment
- Obesity
- Lack of exercise as a child
- Pre-eclampsia in the womb
- Exposure to second- or first-hand smoke
- Genetic make-up
- Diet and nutrition
How Will I Know When I'm Going To Start My Period?
You can't, unfortunately. A good indicator is often the development of breasts and pubic hair, but your period could still come a good year after this starts to happen.
It might be worth asking a female relative about it, if you can. However, just because they started early or late, it doesn't mean you will too. You might be able to get a rough idea, though — and some advice on how to deal with it, as well.
