What Are The Signs Of Early Puberty In Kids?

Add as a preferred source on Google

In early puberty or precocious puberty, the body of a child changes into that of an adult too soon, when puberty occurs before the age of eight for girls and before the age of nine for boys.

An important component of puberty is rapid bone and muscle growth, as well as changes in the body's shape and size as well as the development of reproductive abilities - and in the case of early puberty, kids will have these developments at an earlier age [1][2].

What Causes Early Puberty In Kids?

Often, precocious puberty cannot be determined by its causes. It is possible that certain conditions, such as infections, hormone imbalances, tumours, brain abnormalities, or injuries, may cause precocious puberty. Medications are typically prescribed to delay further development in cases of precocious puberty [3].

Today, we will explore the signs of early puberty in kids. Take a look.

What Are The Signs Of Early Puberty In Kids?

A child with early puberty may exhibit one or more of the following symptoms [4]:

• A rapid increase in height referred to as a growth spurt
• Hair in the pubic area or under the arms
• The body odour of an adult
• Acne

Depending on whether the child is male or female, other signs may appear [5].

Signs of early male puberty:

• Facial hair
• Growth of the testicles and penis
• Voice deepening

Signs of early female puberty:

• Breasts development
• Vaginal discharge or bleeding

How Does Precocious Puberty Affect Kids?

As early as puberty ends, kids with precocious puberty usually fail to reach their full adult height potential. Their skeletons mature and bone growth stops earlier than normal, which means they do not reach their full height as adults.

The early growth spurt may result in them initially being taller than their peers, but they may stop growing too soon, resulting in a shorter height than they would have otherwise achieved [6].

Experiencing puberty too early can also be difficult emotionally and socially for children. Girls who experience precocious puberty, for instance, may feel confused or embarrassed about getting their periods or having enlarged breasts well before other girls.

Even their moods and behaviours can change when they experience precocious puberty. Girls may become moody and irritable. Boys may become aggressive and develop inappropriate sex drives.

On A Final Note...

A child going through early puberty may struggle emotionally and socially. They may not feel that they fit in. They might become depressed, moody, or aggressive. As parents, you should support and guide them the right way.

There are times when treatment of a related health problem can stop precocious puberty, but most of the time, there is no other disease present, which means that hormone therapy is required to stop sexual development.