Age of Menarche and its Relationship with Some Factors in the Schoolgirls of Gorgan in 2006

Menarche, determined as the latest sign of puberty, is affected by several factors. Since the onset of menarche indicates the readiness for reproduction, having information about its related factors has great importance. Information about the age of menarche in this region and its related factors is low, therefore; this study aimed at obtaining the age of menarche and associated factors in high school students. In this descriptive analytic research, the samples were 557 students chosen by stratified random sampling. We collected the data by a form and analyzed by kruskal Wallis (SPSS 11.5). The mean age of the samples is 15.93. Most samples are urban (82.8%) and Fars ethnic groups (90.4%). The mean age of Menarche is 13.19±1.06. Between family size and age of Menarche is a direct relationship (P<0/001). Between mother's education level and age of Menarche is inversely relationship (P<0/003). With increasing birth rank, the menarche age is increased but it is not significant. According to our results, it is necessary to give some instructions to girls, parents and teachers about the age of menarche and its effects on life, including increased risk of early pregnancy.