What physical change occurs last in the sexual maturation sequence for females?

The last physical change that occurs in the sexual maturation sequence for females is menstruation. This process signifies the attainment of the ability to conceive and is typically the final event in the series of physical changes associated with puberty. The other changes—breast development, axillary hair growth, and pubic hair growth—occur earlier in the maturation process. Breast development usually begins around the ages of 8 to 13 and is often one of the first visible signs of puberty. Axillary hair and pubic hair growth follow breast development, occurring within a relatively similar timeframe but still before the onset of menstruation. Menstruation, or the onset of the menstrual cycle, typically occurs about two to three years after the initial signs of breast development, often starting between ages 9 and 16. Therefore, understanding this sequence helps in recognizing the developmental milestones in female adolescents.