Many parents believe that a girl’s height stops increasing as soon as she gets her first period, but that’s not entirely true. Menstruation signals that puberty is well underway, not that growth has completely ended. Most girls continue to grow after their first period, although the pace of growth slows down.
On average, girls may gain about 5–7 cm (2–3 inches) in height after their first period, but this varies from person to person. Height growth usually continues until the growth plates in the bones close, which often happens between 14 and 16 years of age, though it can be earlier or later.
A girl’s final height depends on several factors, including genetics, nutrition, regular physical activity, quality sleep, and overall health. If a girl shows very early puberty, significantly delayed growth, or stops growing unexpectedly, it’s a good idea to consult a pediatrician or pediatric endocrinologist to assess whether further evaluation is needed.
