Puberty can be a stressful time for teens and their parents! Here are some basics about what to expect.
Girls
Stages of puberty
- Breast buds
- Pubic hair
- Growth spurt
- Menarche (the start of periods)
In general, it takes around 1.5-2 years from the first sign (breast buds) to the first period (menarche).
It is normal for periods to be irregular for the first 1-2 years. Teens can use a calendar or one of several apps to keep track of their periods.
When to be concerned and bring your daughter in
- Signs of puberty before age 8
- Stages not progressing in the right order – for example, if your child has a period before breast of pubic hair develop
- No signs by age 14
- Heavy menstrual bleeding or other severe symptoms interfering with your daughter’s daily life
Boys
Stages of puberty
- Testicles enlarge, body odor becomes noticeable
- Penis lengthens, pubic hair starts growing
- Growth spurt
When to be concerned and bring your son in
- Signs of puberty before age 9
- Puberty is not progressing in the right order
- No signs by age 14