Does girls with menstruation still grow taller?

You’re not the only one asking. Between hormonal changes, early menstruation, and those unpredictable puberty stages, it’s easy to get confused. So let’s clear it up. Here's what actually happens—and what it means for your height, now and later.

What is menstruation?

Menstruation is one of the first signs showing that girls are entering puberty with significant changes in both physiology and psychology.

Their bodies grow and the fat layers under their skins thicken making their bodies soft and feminine. Curves gradually appear, breasts are larger, and sebaceous glands develop strongly causing clogged pores and acne. Furthermore, voices are also higher, clearer, and gentler. Pelvises are broader and rounder showing that fertility is available. After menstruation starts, height and weight also markedly change.

The psychology of the girls is also more variable than before. They tend to prefer freedom and independence, express their egos more, pay attention to appearance, and embellish themselves. The girls also start to have feelings for the opposite sex and love to care and care for others. Friendship and love have expanded and flourished.

What are common menstruation symptoms and discomforts for girls?

You might notice that your body sends some pretty obvious signals before and during your period. Some of them feel small, others can hit like a sudden weather change. Here’s what usually shows up, and how many girls describe it:

• Menstrual cramps — a dull, throbbing pull in the lower belly that sometimes travels to the back or thighs. Many compare it to muscles squeezing too tightly.
• Bloating — your belly may feel full or puffy because hormones shift, almost like a balloon slowly filling with air.
• Breast tenderness — soreness or heaviness that can make even brushing against fabric uncomfortable.
• Fatigue — energy drops fast when hormones fluctuate, so resting more actually works better than forcing productivity.
• Headaches or migraines — these can feel mild or sharp, especially when lights or sounds feel too loud.
• Mood changes — emotions may swing quickly, and that doesn’t mean you’re “too sensitive”; hormones genuinely affect the brain.

Do Girls With Menstruation Still Grow Taller?

Yes — but not for long. Once menstruation begins (that’s called menarche), the growth spurt doesn’t just slam on the brakes... but it does start winding down. On average, girls grow about 1.5 to 3 inches after their first period, according to pediatric growth charts used across the U.S. That’s not nothing, but it’s definitely the final stretch.

Now, here’s the part most people don’t hear: estrogen kicks off the whole puberty process and speeds up the closing of the growth plates in the bones. Those plates — technically called epiphyseal plates — are like the “open for business” signs in your long bones. Once they close? That’s it. No more vertical gains.

Timing matters, too. If puberty starts earlier than average, that window for growth shortens. Some girls might hit skeletal maturity by 14; others might still gain height into 16. Every growth trajectory’s a little different, but once menarche hits, the clock’s ticking.

So, if you’re wondering whether more inches are possible after a period starts — they are. Just fewer. And faster.

Where can girls find resources and support for menstruation?

You’ve got more options than you might think—and honestly, that’s a relief. Because when your period shows up (especially the first time), it can feel like no one warned you enough. So where do you turn?

• School nurses or counselors are often your first lifeline. They’re not just there for bandaids and ice packs—they can explain what’s going on, give you products, and just listen if you’re overwhelmed.

• Doctors or gynecologists are a solid bet when things get confusing—like irregular cycles or serious cramps. They’ve seen it all and won’t blink twice at your questions.

• Parents or guardians, when you’re lucky, can make this way less awkward. What I’ve found is: the more open the convo, the easier it gets. Even if it’s just about which pad brand doesn’t feel like wearing a diaper.

• Trusted websites (like the CDC or KidsHealth.org) break things down without the drama. Great for nights when you’re doom-scrolling, wondering “is this normal?”

• Women’s health orgs—think Planned Parenthood or local clinics—are surprisingly helpful. Some even offer free workshops or helplines.

• Menstrual product brands like Always or Thinx? They’re not just selling stuff—they’ve got legit guides, FAQs, and even chat support.

Now, not every source will feel right. That’s normal. Try a few, see what clicks. The point is—you’re not supposed to figure this out alone.

How to Effectively Increase Height for Girls

You can’t force height to happen—but you can set the stage for it. And when it comes to teenage growth spurts? Timing is everything. The window’s open during puberty, but it doesn’t stay open forever. What really matters is how you support your body while those growth plates are still active.

Here’s what works best from experience (and yes, this stuff actually makes a difference):

• Prioritize protein at every meal. Not just a granola bar or fries at lunch. Think eggs, chicken, Greek yogurt—real fuel for growth hormones to work with.

• Stretch daily—especially after school or sports. Light yoga or bodyweight stretches help decompress the spine and improve posture (which weirdly does make a visual height difference).

• Cut back on screen time before bed. Growth hormone spikes during deep sleep, and blue light messes with that cycle.

• Get outside. Just 15–20 minutes of sun helps the body absorb vitamin D, which works alongside calcium to strengthen bones.

• Don’t skip sleep. 9–10 hours a night might sound like a luxury, but during puberty? It’s the secret sauce.

What’s been most consistent across different girls? The ones who eat well, move daily, and actually rest—they grow more. It’s not magic. It’s just momentum.

In summary,

Growth doesn’t just stop with a first period—it just shifts gears. Your role now is to support the body through its final growth window with the right habits: better sleep, smarter nutrition, regular movement, and less pressure to “rush” maturity.

What’s helped most teens thrive? Encouragement, not panic. Education, not myths. So if you’re a parent, teacher, or just someone trying to figure this all out—stick with the basics, trust the process, and stay consistent.

And if there’s one takeaway? Your body’s still growing. Let it.

• Related post: Some height-increasing sports for males