Early Periods in Girls Increase Risk of Depression

A new study conducted in Britain has revealed that girls who get their periods early are at a greater risk of suffering from depression during their adolescent years. The study, conducted by researchers from the University of Bristol and the University of Cambridge, observed more than 2,100 girls who took part in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children.

All the girls underwent a test known as The Short Mood and Feelings Questionnaire (SMFQ) and the researchers found that those girls who had their first period before 11-and-a-half years of age were more prone to depression by the time they reached 14 years of age compared to those who had their first period after 13-and-a-half years.

“Our study found that girls who mature early are more vulnerable to developing depressive symptoms by the time they reach their mid-teens. This suggests that later maturation may be protective against psychological distress”, lead researcher Dr Carol Joinson said.


Source-Medindia