Parents frequently wonder whether their child’s maturing to puberty is occurring at too early an age. Often, girls in fourth grade seem to be maturing, and their parents are not ready for it.
For girls, puberty usually starts around age 11. But it can start as early as age 6 or 7. For boys, puberty begins around age 12. It can start as early as age 9. Puberty is a process. It occurs for several years. Most girls finish puberty by age 14.
All girls undergo a transformation into a woman during adolescence. Menarche is the culmination of this puberty process. The onset is usually noted as breast budding and hair appearance on the axilla and genital area. If you notice either breast budding or hair appearance earlier than 8 years in your daughter, be careful – this could be a sign of early puberty. Early puberty is worrying for doctors because of two factors. Firstly, early puberty may be a sign of hormonal disturbance. Hormonal disturbance is assessed by the doctor using an X-ray for skeletal maturity, ultrasound to assess size of the uterus and some hormone tests. If a hormone disturbance is found, your child may be initiated on some injections. Second reason why one should worry is compromised height. Early maturation will result in reduced years of growth and compromised final height. Thus, it is mandatory that all girls have their sexual maturity assessed in every visit to your paediatrician after 6 years. Next time you visit your paediatrician; don’t forget to get her sexual maturity assessed!!!
Articles by
Dr Hemchand K Prasad
Consultant, Pediatric Endocrinologist
Dr Mehta’s Hospitals, Chetpet