Scientists Find Gene That Triggers Menstruation

Scientists find genetic key that triggers when a girl gets her first period
By Jess Kilby,  Newser Staff
Posted May 18, 2009 9:59 AM CDT
Scientists Find Gene That Triggers Menstruation
Researchers have identified two genes that appear to play a key role in determining when a girl will begin menstruating.   (Shutterstock)

Genetics appear to play a key role in the timing of a girl’s first period, the BBC reports. Researchers have discovered two genes that influence the onset of puberty in both sexes, adjacent to genes controlling height and weight. The findings are important because early menstruation can contribute to a number of health problems for women, including heart disease, osteoporosis, and breast cancer.

“Early menstruation is a health issue because beyond being an inconvenient surprise for a girl and her parents, it’s also associated with a higher risk of a variety of diseases and psychological problems,” said one of the researchers. Rising obesity rates are often blamed for the spike in early-bloomers, as heavier girls tend to get their periods sooner. (More menstruation stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X