Uzm. Dr. Hasan Keleş- April 3, 2026
- 2 min read
- Puberty and Metabolism
- — reads
Puberty is the hormonal and physical bridge from childhood to adulthood. During this period, rapid growth in height, sexual development, and emotional changes occur together. Knowing the normal limits of this process both reassures families and ensures that conditions such as early or delayed puberty are recognized in time.
When Does Puberty Begin?
- In girls: Usually ages 8-13. The first sign is breast budding, followed by the appearance of body hair and the growth spurt; menstruation (menarche) usually begins about 2-2.5 years after the start of breast development.
- In boys: Usually ages 9-14. The first sign is an increase in testicular volume, followed by body hair, deepening of the voice, and the growth spurt.
What Happens During This Period?
- Growth spurt: Rapid increase in height; the need for nutrition and sleep increases.
- Physical changes: Sexual maturation, sweating, and skin changes (acne).
- Emotional-social changes: A search for independence, mood swings, peer influence.
Because the need for iron and vitamin D increases during this period, attention should be paid to iron deficiency anemia and vitamin D deficiency.
Early Puberty
The onset of pubertal signs before age 8 in girls and age 9 in boys is considered early (precocious) puberty. An early onset can cause the bones to close prematurely and lead to a shorter adult height; for this reason, a doctor should be consulted.
Delayed Puberty
The complete absence of any pubertal signs by age 13 in girls or age 14 in boys should be evaluated for delayed puberty. Although it is most often a familial/constitutional delay, it is important to rule out a hormonal or chronic cause. If it occurs together with short stature, it is addressed as part of a developmental evaluation.
What Families Can Do
- Explain physical changes openly, age-appropriately, and without causing embarrassment.
- Support a balanced diet, sleep, and physical activity.
- If early or delayed puberty is suspected, have the height percentile and development assessed by a doctor.
In Şahinbey, Gaziantep, we are here for you for puberty and growth monitoring.
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This content is for informational purposes; please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. — Uzm. Dr. Hasan Keleş
Frequently Asked Questions
It usually begins between ages 8-13 in girls and 9-14 in boys. The first sign in girls is breast budding, and in boys it is an increase in testicular volume.
The onset of pubertal signs before age 8 in girls and age 9 in boys is considered early (precocious) puberty and warrants a doctor's evaluation; it can affect height and future adult height.
If no pubertal signs have appeared by age 13 in girls or age 14 in boys, this should be evaluated for delayed puberty. Although it is often familial/constitutional, investigation is important.
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