|  | Family Health | Teen Health

Signs of Puberty in Adolescents

Adolescence is a time of rapid change. Puberty is the process which occurs as a person shifts from childhood to adulthood. During puberty, individuals mature sexually and become able to reproduce. Girls usually begin puberty between the ages of 8 and 13, and boys typically start puberty between 10 and 16 years of age. The process of puberty has many signs and indicators.

  1. Hair

    • The growth of hair on the body is one of the first signs of puberty for boys and girls. Girls and boys will begin to grow hair in the pubic region and under the arms. Boys also will eventually grow facial hair as well.

    Breast Development

    • Girls begin to develop breasts with the emergence of "buds" underneath the nipples. These buds enlarge and eventually grow into adult breasts after puberty. About half of all boys also experience some swelling and tenderness in the nipple region, but this usually goes away within six months.

    General Body Changes and Growth

    • During puberty, boys and girls experience growth spurts. Boys' shoulders widen, and they gain more muscle mass. Boys also experience growth of the testicles and penis, as well as a noticeable voice change. Girls' hips widen, and they gain fat in the breasts, thighs and hips. This accounts for the curvy quality of the female shape, which is a biological preparation for childbirth. Girls' labia also begin to enlarge during puberty.

    Reproduction

    • The ability to reproduce is marked by menstruation for girls and ejaculation for boys. The average age for first menstruation is approximately 13. Boys usually begin to experience ejaculation (often, nocturnal ejaculation is referred to as "wet dreams") between the ages of 13 and 15.

    Emotional and Social Changes

    • Not all signs of puberty are physical. Many adolescents experience rapid changes in emotions, evidenced by mood swings. Adolescents tend to become suddenly aware of the opposite sex as sexual attraction grows. Once puberty has begun, boys and girls are more likely to gravitate toward their peer groups rather than their parents.

Teen Health - Related Articles