Puberty marks the transition from childhood to adulthood, characterized by physical, emotional, and hormonal changes. While the timing and nature of these changes can vary, certain problems can arise during this critical developmental stage.

Normal Puberty Timeline

• Girls: Typically starts between ages 8 and 13.
• Boys: Generally begins between ages 9 and 14.

Signs of Puberty In Girls:

• Development of breasts
• Growth of pubic and underarm hair
• Onset of menstruation (menarche)
• Changes in body shape (wider hips, increased fat distribution)

Signs of Puberty In Boys

• Growth of pubic, facial, and body hair
• Enlargement of the testicles and penis
• Broader shoulders and increased muscle mass

These changes are driven by sex hormones: estrogen in girls and testosterone in boys, which surge during puberty.

Delayed Puberty

When a child does not show signs of puberty within the expected age range.

Requires detailed evaluation and timely management.

Precocious Puberty

The onset of secondary sexual characteristics before age 8 in girls and 9 in boys.

Implications: Children with precocious puberty may experience accelerated growth initially but can end up shorter than expected due to early closure of growth plates.

Timely management by a Pediatric Endocrinologist is required.

Early assessment and intervention can help manage these conditions effectively and support healthy growth and development.