For many women, menarche or first menstruation is normal and even expected, as it is part of development and the entry into adolescence.

But it is not always well received by women. For some, however, it causes physical problems such as endometriosis, severe pain that prevents them from doing their usual activities, and mood swings.

As if that wasn’t enough, a new study found that those who began menstruating at an early age showed symptoms of depression and a tendency to be antisocial, steal and/or lie .

How was this conclusion reached?

The research was based on the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health, a database that surveyed 7,800 women from 1994 to 2008 – some were followed for 14 years.

Thus, when analyzing the data, it was found that there is a correlation between the first menstruation and symptoms of depression that last until the age of 28.

Although it’s not known exactly whether the symptoms continue past this age or stop earlier: “there may come an age when it evens out,” said Jane Mendle, a researcher in the Department of Human Development at Cornell University and lead author of the study.

The study also noted that the average age of menarche is between 12 and 13 years old, but there are those who have their first period between 8 and 10 years old.

It also showed that the latter had 25% and 33%, respectively, more symptoms of depression than the rest.

This may be because their cognitive, social and emotional development does not match their physical appearance. These changes and experiences change the way girls feel in society.

Girls who showed depression maintained symptoms and were more likely to maintain symptoms into adulthood.