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Updated: Jun 8, 2026
06:38
Determination of Reproductive Competence by Confirming Pubertal Onset and Performing a Fertility Assay in Mice and Rats
Published on: October 13, 2018
Determinants of menarche
Olga Karapanou1, Anastasios Papadimitriou
1Third Department of Pediatrics, University of Athens School of Medicine, Attikon University Hospital, Haidari, Athens 12462, Greece.
Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology : RB&E
|October 6, 2010
Summary
This review explores the neuroendocrinology of puberty and menarche, covering genetic and environmental factors influencing its timing. It also examines the health implications of early or late menarche for women.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive endocrinology
- Neuroendocrinology
- Human development
Background:
- Menarche, the first menstrual period, signifies reproductive capability in females.
- Pubertal onset is a complex neuroendocrine process influenced by multiple factors.
- Understanding menarcheal age is crucial for assessing female reproductive health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in the neuroendocrinology of pubertal onset.
- To summarize current knowledge on genetic and environmental factors affecting menarcheal age.
- To discuss the health implications of early or late menarche.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent developments.
- Synthesis of current knowledge on pubertal neuroendocrinology.
- Analysis of factors influencing menarcheal timing.
Main Results:
- Pubertal onset is regulated by a complex interplay of genetic and environmental signals.
- Nutritional status, psychosocial stress, and endocrine disruptors are key environmental influences.
- Genetic factors contribute significantly to the variability in menarcheal age.
Conclusions:
- The neuroendocrine regulation of puberty is multifaceted.
- Environmental and genetic factors critically influence menarcheal age.
- Deviations in menarcheal timing may have long-term health consequences.
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