Yes, your daughter will likely still grow after getting her period at age 10. While menstruation is a significant marker in puberty, it does not mean growth stops immediately.
Understanding Growth After Menarche
For most girls, the most rapid phase of their growth spurt typically occurs before their first period. However, getting a period at age 10 means she is still within the broader window of pubertal development, and some growth will continue.
According to Healthline, girls usually grow, on average, 1 to 2 additional inches in the year or two after their first period. This indicates that while the growth rate slows down considerably, there is still some height gain expected.
Puberty and Growth Timeline for Girls
Puberty is a process that unfolds over several years, with different stages impacting growth. Understanding this timeline can provide clarity:
- Onset of Puberty: For most girls, puberty begins between 8 and 13 years old.
- Growth Spurt: The most significant growth spurt, or period of rapid height increase, typically occurs between ages 10 and 14 years old.
- Post-Period Growth: Even after menarche (the first period), a girl will usually add a few more inches to her height.
- Reaching Adult Height: Most girls reach their adult height by age 14 or 15.
This timeline illustrates that even if a girl gets her period at the earlier end of the typical age range, like 10, she still has a couple of years of potential growth ahead.
Growth Milestones in Girls
To further illustrate the typical progression of growth during puberty, consider the following general milestones:
| Phase | Typical Age Range (Girls) | Growth Characteristic |
|---|---|---|
| Puberty Begins | 8-13 years | Hormonal changes initiate; breast development often starts. |
| Peak Growth Spurt | 10-14 years | Period of most rapid height increase. |
| First Period (Menarche) | Varies; often after peak growth | Signifies a slowing of rapid growth, but not an end. |
| Post-Menarche Growth | 1-2 years after period | Average of 1-2 additional inches gained. |
| Reaching Adult Height | 14-15 years | Growth plates typically close, and height stabilizes. |
For more detailed information on growth patterns in girls, you can refer to resources like When Do Girls Stop Growing? Median Height, Genetics & More - Healthline.
Key Takeaways
- Continued Growth is Common: Receiving a period at 10 does not mean your daughter will stop growing immediately.
- Modest Additional Height: Expect an average of 1 to 2 more inches in height over the following one to two years.
- Individual Variation: While these are averages, every girl's growth pattern is unique. Genetics and overall health also play a role.
- Final Height by Mid-Teens: Most girls complete their height growth by their mid-teens, around ages 14 or 15.
