AL SHIFA CLINIC KARACHI

Syed Intisar Hussain

Meta Description: Discover the physical and emotional changes associated with puberty in boys. Learn about the first signs of puberty in males and how to identify if you or your child is hitting puberty.

The Hairy Start

This article or video has been recorded by a subject / domain specialists with a proven track record of excellence in their area. 

Medilink Consultant clinic

Online Consultation

ZAKA CLINIC GULBERG LAHORE

Saad Ullah Siddiqui

This article or video has been vetted and verified by Meri Sehat’s specialists. It contains citations and research from validated sources.

13 Going On 13 (Female Puberty)

Introduction

So, your child went through a growth spurt? Do they suddenly find no joy in leisure activities that they previously enjoyed? Do they spend most of their time locked in their room, huddled over a computer? Congratulations, they&rsquo;ve just hit puberty!&nbsp; These are just some of the first signs that your kid is well on their way to adulthood.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Puberty is a significant phase of life. As your child undergoes this transition from youth to adulthood, it&rsquo;s only natural that they &ndash; or, by extension, you &ndash; notice this change. Essentially, this is what puberty is &ndash; the developmental growth and generational changes because of several underlying hormonal changes<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The most important part of puberty, of course, is the physical transformation that happens as a result of sexual development. It ensures the reproductive capability of the now mature adult.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Girls and those assigned females at birth (AFAB) by and large start and end puberty about a year sooner than boys and those assigned males at birth (AMAB). Usually, girls start puberty between the ages of 8 and 13<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>.

&nbsp;

While the signs and stages of puberty for a particular gender are, by and large, same for everyone, the fact is that puberty is a challenging time, and everyone adapts to it in an individualistic way. Societal norms, expectations, and values, along with academic pressure, compel an individual to react unexpectedly, especially if the person is a young girl learning to manage the hormonal developments she is suddenly experiencing. Therefore, the arrival of mood swings, recurrent emotional breakdowns, and increasing tendency to engage in arguments with parents and siblings should not intimidate or startle you<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>.&nbsp;

<div>&nbsp;</div>

Understanding Puberty in Females

Given that puberty is a phase unique to the developing child, it might seem unlikely that a guardian would have any role to play in it. That is NOT the case. Your child is confused. Let them scream at the top of their lungs that &ldquo;You don&rsquo;t know what it feels like&rdquo;; you know it&rsquo;s not true. You have gone through it yourself! And only you can put them at ease through the whole process. Trust yourself. Your child will thank you later.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Be empathetic as you enjoy the luxury of several decades of experience to deal with unbridled hormones, which your teenage daughter has just started developing.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Ensure that such behavioral challenges are only temporary. <a href="https://merisehat.pk/doctor-now">Consult with a therapist</a> regularly so you and your child can always initiate healthy discussions in a respectable tone.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>For some kids, symptoms can be very debilitating, and would warrant consultations with licensed practitioners. In extreme cases, teenagers can be prescribed hormonal therapy to ease discomfort<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

This article is about the observable changes you might witness while your young girl steps into adolescence.

&nbsp;

<h5>Should You Hand Them A Razor?</h5>

A very evident stage of puberty is announced through the arrival and prominence of body hair. Coarser hair will start to develop in the genital region, under the arms, and on the forearms and legs. And while according to the Tanner stages or the sexual maturity ratings (SMRs)<a href="#accordion">[8]</a>, hair growth is secondary to breast development, it is important to note that for nearly 15% of girls, pubic hair is the primary indication of puberty<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>&nbsp;i.e., hair growth occurs before breast development.

&nbsp;

But, before you start pointing out the coarser and darker hair growth on your daughter&rsquo;s arms or legs, remember that society has already stigmatized something as natural as hair growth. Have a conversation with your daughter about hair. Let her know that it is not something to be insecure about, and whether she prefers to remove it or not, it should be just that, a preference rather than a submission to Eurocentric standards of beauty.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Now, if she expresses a desire to explore hair-removing methods, then guide her through your experiential dos and don&rsquo;ts. Purchase a razor for her and walk her through the most effective tips to ensure minimal risks for cuts, skin irritation, and razor bumps.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

You could advise her to:

<ol>
	<li>Be gentle with the razor and discourage her from applying unnecessary pressure to her delicate skin.</li>
	<li>Be liberal with a gel or hair-removing cream to decrease friction and avoid the razor burns that occur when brushed repeatedly over one area.</li>
	<li>Be possessive, and reiterate how razors should never be shared. Demonstrate how to change old razor blades or&nbsp;the proper way to sanitize them&nbsp; after use</li>
	<li>Become a glazed doughnut and nourish the skin after a shave with skin repairing moisturizers or calming creams.</li>
</ol>

&nbsp;

Other Methods: You could also introduce her to the painful-yet rewarding world of waxing or the affluent need for epilators and electrical razors. But whatever you do, make sure the method is safe and not a particular way to be ashamed of.

&nbsp;

<h5>Trip To Victoria&rsquo;s Secret?</h5>

As a young girl edges towards adolescence, the first noticeable indication is breast development. When ovaries begin to secrete estrogen, fat in the connective tissue begins to accumulate, leading to breast expansion.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

But it is not just the breasts that grow; surrounding areas such as the areola, which is defined as the region of the nipple, may grow and deepen in color. Moreover, the now darker region may become more erect. The conduit ducts additionally begin to dilate and enlarge. Because of the influx of hormones, these breast changes occur at the very instance that pubic hair and armpit hair show up &ndash; aka a complex time of puberty<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>.

&nbsp;

Breasts have been sexualized over countless years and the media continues to promote unrealistic standards of how a normal breast should look like. This unfortunately leads young girls to compare their breasts to their celebrity idols, peers who are also going through puberty, or grown women such as the parental figure.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Therefore, it is important to reassure your child of the dissimilar and contrasting puberty timetables each individual follows.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Touch upon the topic lightly or through some recreational activity such as wandering into a bra shop during a trip to the mall and asking the salesperson to show the wide and diverse size categories available. Let your daughter know that her breast growth is appropriate for her body, regardless of how fast or slow it may be according to the anticipated timeline.&nbsp;

<div>&nbsp;</div>

Is your teenage daughter easily irritable or acting unexpectedly? Is she exhibiting signs of behavioral changes? Is there now an invisible barrier of communication between the two of you? Does your child suddenly want more privacy? Don&rsquo;t let that make you feel guilty or sad. It&rsquo;s not about what you did or didn&rsquo;t do.

&nbsp;

Multiple parents share your sentiments at this stage. The rapid hormonal changes your child is going through, besides the crushing academic pressure might be probable causes.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

This sudden desire for independence and privacy should be respected, but simultaneously you should monitor her development. You can talk to her, engage her in a light and friendly discussion without sounding like you&rsquo;re lecturing or shaming her. Insightful dinner discussions regarding body image, emotional challenges, sexuality, and substance abuse should be touched upon frequently rather than making them a domain to be brushed under the rug.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

If you have a growing concern that is impossible to ignore but you don&rsquo;t know how to go about discussing it with your child, then there are various psychological wellness assets you can find online as well as nearby care groups, school therapists, and local area programs that might prove to be useful.

&nbsp;

So, for the time being make it a habit to watch for any hint of consistent gloominess or uncontrollable tension. Don&rsquo;t be preoccupied with it, though. You can let them be unless it&#39;s something really serious, like difficulty in maintaining a consistent sleep schedule or repeated aversion from school or friends, which ought to be talked about and consulted with your child&rsquo;s assigned and allocated therapist. Sometimes, treatment or prescription may be needed<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>.

<div>&nbsp;</div>

Puberty also witnesses the onset of the growth spurt. For a long time, it was believed that menarche (or the beginning of the menstrual cycle) marks the end of puberty, but recent studies show otherwise.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The average growth in height after menarche is around 7 cm (3 inches), and it is much more prominent for girls who menstruate early. Those who menstruate late grow nearly 5 cm (2 inches)<a href="#accordion">[7]</a>.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Moreover, the growth spurt influences other parts of your daughter&rsquo;s body, such as the widening of her hips. A number of studies support the idea of weight gain during puberty<a href="#accordion">[5]</a>. While highlighting the significance of a healthy diet and multifaceted routine exercise, also focus attention on normalizing such body changes and not forcing your 13-year-old into her prepuberty clothes.

<div>&nbsp;</div>

According to most cultures menstruation is considered as the peak of puberty. It is also considered as&nbsp; the confirmation of a healthy reproductive system. The different stages of the female menstrual cycle, including menstruation and ovulation, are regulated by the management and release of the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and the luteinizing hormone (LH) during the earlier stages of puberty<a href="#accordion">[6]</a>.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

There used to be an age bracket for the first period, but new research stresses that all bodies function differently<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>. Blood is always an intimidating sight for all individuals, especially young girls who are not expecting it from their vaginas.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

If you start having conversations early with your daughter, you can save her from the shock and embarrassment when she menstruates for the first time. Use medical resources or schedule a visit to the doctor to talk about different flows (heavy or light) and colors (dark or brown spotting)<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Further, instruct them on the safe and proper way to use menstrual cups, tampons, or sanitary pads. Do your part to reduce the ridiculous shame and stigma associated with menstruation so that your child never hesitates from discussing her health.

<div>&nbsp;</div>

Precocious puberty occurs when these physical and hormonal changes happen before their expected time.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Puberty in girls younger than 8 years was previously considered as precocious. But now, studies show that early pubescent development of breasts and growth of pubic hair are in many cases normal in young girls, especially black girls between the ages of 6 and 8 years.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

During central precocious puberty (CPP), which is gonadotropin-reliant, early development of the entire hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis is observed with the full range of physical and hormonal changes of adolescence.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

It should be emphasized here that your child reaching puberty earlier than what is considered normal according to your ethnicity or society is neither good nor bad. Research suggests that the starting age of puberty is gradually decreasing, and it can be due to a variety of uncontrollable factors<a href="#accordion">[1][4]</a>.

<div>&nbsp;</div>

Conclusion

Puberty is an extremely censored topic. All this hush hush surrounding it makes it more mysterious. Rather than a medical rite of passage into adulthood, it is viewed as a societal taboo that should never be mentioned. Caretakers, parents, teachers, and even older siblings can help bridge this communication gap by introducing the topic of puberty to the young ones. It not only ensures that they do not get their information from wrong sources or struggle with any negative pressure or mental health issues due to their development, but also establishes a strong and healthy relationship with your child.

Key Points

<ul>
	<li>Puberty refers to the period where a child experiences drastic physical and mental developments due to the production and release of hormones.</li>
	<li>In girls,&nbsp;puberty&nbsp;changes&nbsp;such as menstruation, hair growth, increase in height, skin changes, breast development, and mood swings are observed.</li>
	<li>Precocious puberty refers to the onset of puberty before the age of 8 in girls. Because of advancing climatic conditions and non-static environmental factors, precocious puberty is not considered a disease or ailment.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

[1] Allen, B., & Miller, K. (2019, June 4). Physical Development in Girls: What to Expect During Puberty. Healthy Children.

[2] Cleveland Clinic. (2022, June 17). What is Puberty for Girls?

[3] John Hopkins Medicine. (2022, July). Normal Breast Development and Changes.

[4] Kaplowitz, P. B. (2022, January 24). Precocious Puberty. Medscape.

[5] Nakamoto, J. M. (2000). Myths and variations in normal pubertal development. The Western journal of medicine, 172(3), 182–185.

[6] Raju, G. A., Chavan, R., Deenadayal, M., Gunasheela, D., Gutgutia, R., Haripriya, G., . . . Patki, A. (2013). Luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone synergy: A review of role in controlled ovarian hyper-stimulation. Journal of human reproductive sciences, 6(4), 227–234.

[7] Nakamoto JM. Myths and variations in normal pubertal development. West J Med. 2000;172(3):182-185. doi:10.1136/ewjm.172.3.182

[8] Stephens, C. (2022, March 22). Navigating Puberty: The Tanner Stages. Healthline.

Zarlish Kazmi

Puberty is a turning point in an individual&#39;s life as the body transitions from childhood to adolescence. In both boys and girls, it can be a challenging time as they try to make sense of what is happening to their bodies<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

During puberty the body not only goes through physical changes, but also experiences<a href="https://merisehat.pk/article/im-not-crazy-the-taboo-of-seeking-psychological-help"> psychological and emotional changes</a>. For boys, puberty is between ages of 9 and 14 years.

&nbsp;

The changes seen in boys are due to the spike in certain hormone levels that are released during puberty to help the body reach optimal reproductive ability<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>. Hormones are chemical substances released by certain glands of the body that travel through blood to reach their target organ(s) and signal them what to do<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>.

&nbsp;

A pea-sized gland in the brain called pituitary releases two types of hormones that travel through blood to reach the sex organ - testes in boys. The testes then release the primary sex hormone called testosterone that brings about the changes witnessed during puberty<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>.

&nbsp;

Understanding Puberty in Males

There are 5 stages of puberty for boys as described by Tanner<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>. For parents, Tanner is an amazing guide to know about what they can expect when their boy hits puberty.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Stage 1&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

This is the prepubertal stage, which means that boys haven&#39;t yet experienced any obvious signs of puberty.

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Stage 2&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

This stage occurs between the ages of 9 and 14 years. Physical changes start to become visible, including:

<ol>
	<li>Growth of external genitalia, that is the testicles and scrotum</li>
	<li>Hair growth around the genitals and under the arm</li>
	<li>Increase in height with roughly 2-2.5 inch increase each year</li>
</ol>

&nbsp;

Stage 3

Between the age of 10 and 16 years, physical changes accelerate. This stage includes:

<ol>
	<li>Continued growth of the testicles and penis</li>
	<li>Experiencing nocturnal emissions</li>
	<li>Darkening and coarsening of hair around the genital area&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Growth spurt with 2.75-3 inches increase in height per year&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Increased sweating often leading to body odor&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Changes in voice (a crack or break in their voice)&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Increase in muscle tissues&nbsp;</li>
</ol>

&nbsp;

At this time, around 50% of boys experience breast development, a condition called gynecomastia. But it is temporary as the growth resolves in a few months.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Stage 4</li>
</ul>

During this stage, puberty is at its peak. This occurs between the age of 11 and 16 years:

<ol>
	<li>Growth of penis in addition to a darkening of the area around the genitalia and development of red ridges over the testicles&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Growth spurt is at its maximum during this stage with approximate increase in height of 4 inches in a year&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Hair growth increases&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Acne develops&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Cracking of the voice persists&nbsp;</li>
</ol>

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Stage 5</li>
</ul>

This is the final stage of puberty. By this stage all the physical changes have taken place. For some people, facial hair develops during this stage. By age 17, most boys have reached this stage. However, some may reach this stage when they are in their early 20s.&nbsp;

<div>&nbsp;</div>

You know a boy is going through puberty when you observe changes in his height, voice, and overall appearance. These are all obvious signs. But there&rsquo;s a whole lot of changes that are happening &lsquo;behind the scenes. One of them being: a burst of new emotions.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The surge in testosterone along with peer pressure results in moody behavior, isolation from family, and your boy demanding independence. This is a very sensitive and challenging phase to deal with as parents, since you have to constantly reassure your teenage son that you love him and have his back. Whenever you see your teenage son crossing certain boundaries, you need to instantly remind him politely about how he is going beyond the set limits and might put himself in danger<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>.

&nbsp;

If you notice that your son is exhibiting any sign of depression or anxiety, for instance, becoming unusually irritable and cranky or experiencing extreme mood swings, then you need to consult a healthcare professional to get your teen evaluated. If the disturbance is due to a psychological disorder, then your doctor would either recommend therapy or prescribe medications<a href="#accordion">[3]</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div>&nbsp;</div>

Erection is the process during which the penis hardens as it gets filled with blood. This may happen anytime during puberty. For some, it may happen once in a day, while others may not experience it at all. Either way, it&#39;s completely normal<a href="#accordion">[4]</a>.

&nbsp;

However, your teen might wake up from sleep because of erections and may experience wet dreams. Wet dreams or nocturnal emissions is a condition in which the fluid that contains sperm is released from the penis during sleep. This can result in bedwetting and can be very uncomfortable and embarrassing for your child but you need to comfort him as it is a normal sign of puberty and is a part of growing up. It is a sign that their body is getting ready for reproduction<a href="#accordion">[4]</a>.

<div>&nbsp;</div>

It is common for boys to have acne during puberty. This is because of the surge in testosterone, which results in increased sweat production, and causes oil to build up inside the skin pores and clog them causing acne.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Boys can develop acne on the face, chest, or back. Some teens may have severe acne, compared to others but it also depends on the family history.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

You should ask your child to wash their face properly and regularly to cleanse the pores. If it doesn&#39;t work then you can take them to a dermatologist (skin specialist) who will guide you about how to treat persistent acne<a href="#accordion">[5]</a>. It&rsquo;s best to get a consultation and not use any cream or ointment that has not been clinically approved or suggested to you by your doctor.&nbsp;

<div>&nbsp;</div>

An early puberty (also known as precocious puberty) is seen in 1.2% of children in the U.S<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>. Early puberty is when young boys begin to experience symptoms before they even turn 9.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Early puberty is not a matter of concern and does not require medical intervention if the growth and development is normal and the child is going through all the stages of puberty as he should.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

However, there are certain medical conditions that can result in increased levels of sex hormone at an early age. An excess of these hormones can cause the early commencement of puberty. These medical conditions include any genetic or hormonal condition or any abnormality of the brain or sex organs. If early puberty is due to a medical condition, then your doctor will guide you through a treatment plan.&nbsp;

<div>&nbsp;</div>

Late puberty is when boys do not undergo testicle enlargement by the time they turn 14. Delayed puberty is not a serious issue because the age of onset of puberty varies greatly and depends on the child&#39;s genes, diet, weight, and environment. For instance, individuals who undergo intense physical training attain puberty at a later age<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>.

&nbsp;

But delayed puberty can be a matter of concern if it is due to an underlying health condition. In cases where sex organs produce low levels of the required hormone, a condition called hypogonadism develops which slows the onset of puberty.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Late puberty can be due to genetic or developmental disorder or due to a brain tumor. Imaging techniques such as MRI or ultrasound can easily scan the gland to confirm if they are functioning properly. If hormones are low naturally, exogenous hormones can be administered<a href="#accordion">[1]</a>.

<div>&nbsp;</div>

Puberty is a period of transitioning from childhood to adolescence. It consists of 5 stages and it can be very challenging for boys as they go through physical, emotional, and psychological changes within themselves. Every child goes through puberty at his own pace since it is a gradual process and these changes don't take place overnight. For parents, it is a topic that needs to be dealt with utmost care and affection so that the child feels secure as they move towards adulthood.&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Puberty is a period in the life of an individual during which they undergo physical, emotional, and psychological changes.</li>
	<li>It consists of 5 stages as described by Tanner.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Puberty in boys begins between the ages of 9 and 14.</li>
	<li>During puberty, boys may go through voice changes, increase in height, and changes in physique.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Some may experience erection and nocturnal emissions which is normal during puberty.</li>
	<li>Boys may also develop acne due to increase in hormone levels.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Some boys may develop puberty early or late and often it isn&#39;t a matter of concern. But if it is due to any underlying cause then it should be addressed.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<div>&nbsp;</div>