Puberty is the process of physical and sexual maturation that starts during early adolescence.

Girls experience puberty a little earlier than boys; on average, girls start puberty at around 8 to 13 years of age, while boys start at around 9 to 14 years of age. However, in recent years, there have been reports of children entering puberty at younger ages. This article will discuss the onset of early puberty in both boys and girls.

What is Early Puberty?

Early puberty, also known as precocious puberty, is a condition where a child starts to develop sexual and physical characteristics earlier than usual.

The medical definition of early puberty is when a child starts to show signs of puberty before the age of 8 in girls and 9 in boys. Early puberty can affect a child’s physical and emotional development, as well as their self-esteem and social interactions.

Early Puberty in Girls

In girls, the first sign of puberty is usually the development of breast buds. This is followed by the growth of pubic hair and body hair, as well as the first menstrual period. In girls with early puberty, these signs may occur before the age of 8.

There are several causes of early puberty in girls including:.

1. Genetic Factors

Genetics plays a role in determining the age at which girls start puberty. If there is a family history of early puberty, there is a higher chance that a girl will experience early puberty as well.

2. Obesity

Obesity can increase the levels of hormones in the body that trigger puberty. Girls who are overweight or obese are more likely to start puberty earlier than girls who have a healthy weight.

3. Health conditions

Some health conditions, such as tumors in the brain or ovaries, can cause early puberty in girls. Medical conditions such as hypothyroidism or congenital adrenal hyperplasia can also cause early puberty.

Early Puberty in Boys

In boys, the first sign of puberty is usually the growth of testicles and penis. This is followed by the growth of pubic hair, body hair, and the deepening of the voice. In boys with early puberty, these signs may occur before the age of 9.

There are several causes of early puberty in boys including:.

1. Genetic Factors

Genetics also plays a role in determining the age at which boys start puberty. If there is a family history of early puberty, there is a higher chance that a boy will experience early puberty as well.

2. Exposure to Hormones

Exposure to certain hormones, such as testosterone, can cause early puberty in boys. This can happen if a boy is taking testosterone supplements or is exposed to high levels of testosterone in the environment.

3. Health Conditions

Some health conditions, such as tumors in the brain or testicles, can cause early puberty in boys. Medical conditions such as hypothyroidism or congenital adrenal hyperplasia can also cause early puberty.

Effects of Early Puberty

Early puberty can have both physical and emotional effects on children. Girls who start puberty earlier than their peers may feel self-conscious about their changing bodies and may experience emotional distress.

Boys who start puberty early may feel pressure to conform to cultural expectations of masculinity and may also feel overwhelmed by the changes in their bodies.

Early puberty can also affect a child’s growth. If a child starts puberty too early, they may stop growing too soon, which can lead to short stature in adulthood.

Treatment for Early Puberty

If a child is diagnosed with early puberty, there are treatment options available. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of early puberty. For example, if a tumor is causing early puberty, the tumor may need to be removed.

Hormone therapy is also an option for treating early puberty. Hormone therapy can delay puberty, allowing a child to develop at a more typical pace.

Conclusion

Early puberty is a condition where a child starts to develop sexual and physical characteristics earlier than usual.

There are several causes of early puberty in both boys and girls, including genetic factors, exposure to hormones, and health conditions. Early puberty can have both physical and emotional effects on children, and treatment is available to manage the condition. If you are concerned about your child’s development, speak to a healthcare professional for advice.