Can a Girl Grow 5 Inches After Her First Period?

It's unlikely. While some girls may experience further growth after their first period (menarche), the average is much less than 5 inches.

Most sources indicate that girls typically grow only 2-3 inches after their first period. This is supported by numerous studies and medical professionals. For example, the Johns Hopkins Medicine website states that "Girls can expect to grow an average of about 2-3 inches after menarche." https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/what-is-a-growth-spurt-during-puberty Other sources, such as the Fels Longitudinal Study, corroborate this, noting that girls starting menstruation at age 10 grow, on average, around 4 inches. However, this is an average; individual growth varies.

The idea that girls might grow significantly more than 2-3 inches post-menarche is a misconception. While individual experiences differ, growth beyond 4 inches is less common.

Individual Variations

It's important to remember that individual growth patterns vary. Genetics, nutrition, and overall health play a role. Some girls may grow slightly more or less than the average. Anecdotal evidence online shows instances of girls growing more than the average, but this should not be taken as a representative sample of the overall population.

Several online forums and question-and-answer sites mention individuals claiming growth beyond 2-3 inches. However, these are individual accounts, not conclusive scientific evidence. For example, one Reddit thread showcases a user's personal experience of growing 5 inches; however, this is only one case among many and doesn't negate the established average growth post-menarche. https://www.reddit.com/r/TwoXChromosomes/comments/1e12lgd/how-many-years_after_your_first_period_did_you/

In conclusion, while individual variation exists, growing 5 inches after the first period is outside the typical range of post-menarcheal growth.