Puberty

Puberty is the time in life when a boy or girl becomes sexually mature. It is a process that usually happens between ages 8 and 13 for girls and ages 9 and 14 for boys. It causes physical changes and affects boys and girls differently.

In girls:

• The first sign of puberty is usually breast development.
• Then hair grows in the pubic area and armpits.
• Menstruation (or a period) usually happens last.

In boys:

• Puberty usually begins with the testicles and penis getting bigger.
• Then hair grows in the pubic area and armpits.
• Muscles grow, the voice deepens, and facial hair develops as puberty continues.

Both boys and girls may get acne. They also usually have a growth spurt (a rapid increase in height) that lasts for about 2 or 3 years. This brings them closer to their adult height, which they reach after puberty.

NIH: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development

Questions for your care team

General prompts to help prepare for your appointment.

• How does this information apply to my situation?
• Which symptoms or results need evaluation?
• Which tests are useful, and what can they tell us?
• What care options, benefits, and risks should we discuss?
• When should I seek urgent help, and whom should I call?
• When is follow-up, and how will we know whether the plan is working?