Doctor Nguyen Van Phuc, Department of Andrology, Central Military Hospital 108 shared: Puberty is a transitional stage from children to adults, usually starting in boys around 9-14 years old. Early signs include testicles gradually enlarging, followed by the development of the penis, hair growth, acne, rapid height gain and a deeper voice.
However, not all cases are "standard". Some manifestations may be signs of endocrine disorders or pathology. Early recognition helps limit the impact on height, psychology, and reproductive health.
Premature puberty: Fast growth but potential risks
Early puberty when signs appear before the age of 9 years. Children can develop quickly, grow hair, break their voice, and increase height suddenly.
This can cause bones to mature early, reducing height when they grow up. Children are also easily insecure due to differences with friends. Notably, early puberty in boys is at risk of being related to pathologies such as endocrine disorders, testicular disease or brain damage.
Late puberty: No small psychological pressure
Late puberty when the testicles are not yet developed or progress slowly at 14 years old. The cause is usually a "late-growing" constitution, but it can also be related to malnutrition, chronic diseases, or hormone disorders.
Children are often self-conscious because of their "childish" appearance, short stature, reluctance to communicate and are easily psychologically affected.
Testicular abnormalities: Do not be subjective
Testicles are an important organ in puberty. If after 14 years old they have not developed, or have signs of dislocation, pain, swelling, they need to be examined.
Some conditions such as undescended testicles or varicocele can affect fertility if left untreated.
Breast enlargement in baby boys: Usually physiological but needs monitoring
Breast enlargement in puberty is usually due to hormonal imbalance and will go away on its own. However, if it grows quickly, hurts a lot or is abnormal, it is necessary to check. Parents should also avoid teasing and making children feel insecure.
Premature hair growth: Not necessarily puberty
Some children grow hair early but their testicles are not yet developed. This may be due to early kidney glands functioning, not real puberty. If accompanied by rapid growth, you should see a doctor.
Parents should monitor the child's development and talk openly. It is necessary to take the child to the doctor if puberty is too early, too late or there are abnormal signs.
Do not arbitrarily use drugs or "puberty-stimulating" products because they can be long-term harmful.
