What to Know About Delayed Puberty

Delayed puberty is a condition in which a child's body does not develop the physical signs of puberty at the expected time. In most individuals, puberty begins between 10 and 14 years for females and between 12 and 16 years for males. If puberty has not begun by these ages, it is considered to be delayed.

Causes of Delayed Puberty

There are many possible causes of delayed puberty, including:

* Constitutional delay: This is the most common cause of delayed puberty. It is simply a delay in the body's normal developmental process, and it does not usually indicate any other underlying problems. Constitutional delay is often inherited.

* Hypogonadism: This is a condition in which the body does not produce enough sex hormones. Hypogonadism can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic disorders, certain medical conditions, and malnutrition.

* Other medical conditions: A number of other medical conditions can also lead to delayed puberty, such as chronic illnesses, thyroid problems, and diabetes.

Signs of Delayed Puberty

The signs of delayed puberty vary depending on the individual, but may include:

* In females: Lack of breast development, absence of menstrual periods, lack of pubic hair growth

* In males: Small penis and testicles, lack of pubic hair growth, absence of facial hair

Treatment for Delayed Puberty

In most cases, delayed puberty does not require treatment. However, if the underlying cause is a medical condition, treatment for that condition may be necessary. In some cases, hormone therapy may be used to promote puberty.

Coping with Delayed Puberty

Delayed puberty can be a difficult experience for children and their families. It can lead to feelings of self-consciousness, embarrassment, and isolation. It is important to be supportive and understanding of children who are experiencing delayed puberty. Parents and other caregivers should talk to their children about what is happening and help them to cope with their feelings. They should also encourage their children to see a doctor if they have any concerns about delayed puberty.