MK M Teresa Knight, MD, FACOG, (Ob/Gyn)

Menarche (First Menstruation) & Health Literacy

Health literacy begins at home with effective communications between parent and child, especially about predictable “milestones” in development. Ob/Gyn Dr. Teresa Knight and Christopher Springmann discuss “first time” menstruation experiences and offer suggestions to parents as to how to approach this all-important discussion, including retaining an Ob/Gyn to facilitate the conversation for adults uncomfortable or unsure with the task. Menarche refers to a girl’s first menstrual cycle. It usually begins at the age of 11, but can occur any time between the ages of 11-13. A gynecologist should be consulted if menarche does not occur till the age of 16. In the United States, the average age for the first menstrual cycle to occur is 12.5 years.

Dr. Knight is a board certified Obstetrician/Gynecologist and a Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Born and raised in Northern California, Dr. Knight completed her undergraduate education at U.C. Berkeley, graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Integrative Biology with a minor in Women's Studies. While attending college she received recognition for her contribution to the development of a traveling health clinic for the homeless and for perinatal services for homeless women. Dr Knight earned a Master's degree in Anatomy and Neurobiology from Saint Louis University where she also attended Medical School. She completed her residency at St. John's Mercy Medical Center in St. Louis. In addition to her medical accomplishments, Dr Knight speaks Spanish and she is a licensed pilot. Dr Knight currently is a practicing Ob/Gyn as well as a scientific advisor for Peak Surgical, a national speaker for Myriad Genetics, and a board member for the National Association of Medical Communicators. She is a frequent lecturer and often lectures to resident and attending physicians as a medical science liaison. She is passionate about Women’s health and is interested in participating in all aspects of Women’s health care.

Christopher Springmann

11 / 13 / 2009