Final answer:
Menarche, or the beginning of menstruation, typically occurs within a few years after breast budding. The average age of menarche in the U.S. is about 12.4 to 12.5 years, with normal variations ranging from 8 to 16 years influenced by genetics, environment, nutrition, and body fat.
Step-by-step explanation:
After breast budding, menarche, which is the beginning of menstruation, typically starts within the next few years.
Menarche is one of the most significant changes during puberty.
The first sign of puberty is usually the development of breast tissue, known as breast budding.
Following this development, girls experience a growth spurt, increase in height, and the growth of axillary and pubic hair.
The average age for menarche in the United States is about 12.4 to 12.5 years, but it can normally occur anytime between 8 and 16 years of age.
Several factors may influence the timing of menarche such as genetics, environmental factors, nutritional status, and the body's fat content, which is related to the production of the hormone leptin that can affect puberty onset.