Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
menarche
Pronunciation: muh-NAR-kee
The onset of menstruation and the first menstrual period in female adolescents.
Full Definition
Menarche represents a significant milestone in female pubertal development, typically occurring between ages 10-16 years, with an average age of 12.5 years in developed countries. This biological event marks the beginning of reproductive capability and is influenced by factors including genetics, nutrition, body weight, and environmental conditions. Healthcare providers monitor the timing of menarche to assess normal pubertal progression and identify potential underlying conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome or eating disorders.
Usage
Usage note: Not capitalized unless beginning a sentence. Avoid euphemisms in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The patient experienced menarche at age 13, which falls within the normal range." — Gynecologic history
- "Early menarche before age 8 requires endocrinologic evaluation." — Clinical protocol
Also known as
first menstruation
onset of menses
Contrasted with
menopause
Don't confuse with
thelarche
adrenarche