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Menarche

By Vincent Iannelli, M.D., About.com

Created: January 15, 2007

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Kate Grossman, MD

Definition: Menarche is the onset of menstruation or the first period in girls during puberty.

The average age of menarche is about 12 to 13 years, with the first period typically occuring about 2 to 2 1/2 years after the start of puberty.

Pronunciation: me-nar'ke
Also Known As: First Menstrual Period

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