Normal Changes During Puberty

Normal Changes During Puberty 

The physical changes of puberty typically begin around 10 years old for girls (between 8 and 13 years) and slightly later for boys (around 12 years old for boys, between 9 and 14 years). Here are some key changes: 

Girls: 

Breast Development: Girls may notice breast buds (small lumps) that can be tender or painful. This marks the beginning of breast development. 

Pubic Hair and Acne: Pubic hair starts growing, and acne may appear. 

Menarche: Menarche, the first menstrual period, usually occurs after breast development. Periods may be irregular during the first 1-2 years. 

Growth Spurt: Girls experience rapid height growth during early puberty. Around ages 11-13, they can grow up to 8 cm (about 3 inches) per year. 

Closure of Growth Plates: After about 2-3 years from breast development, menarche occurs, and growth plates close. Height growth stops. 

Boys: 

Testicular Growth: Boys’ testicles increase in size (usually more than 4 mL) as a sign of puberty onset. 

Pubic Hair and Voice Changes: Pubic hair growth begins, and the voice deepens. 

Acne: Like girls, boys may experience acne. 

Sperm Production: Sperm production starts in the testes. 

Growth Spurt: Boys have a growth spurt, especially in mid-puberty. Around ages 13-15, they can grow up to 10 cm (about 4 inches) per year. 

Closure of Growth Plates: By age 17, boys’ growth plates close, and height growth stops. 

During puberty, the average height gain is about 25-28 cm (10-11 inches). Boys and girls who have gone through puberty may differ by an average of 13 cm (about 5 inches) in height. Remember that individual variations exist, and each child’s development timeline may differ.