General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
Puberty gradually changes the body over several years. Its timing varies between children and families. Comparing classmates alone cannot establish that it is too early or delayed.
Breast development or pubic hair before eight in a girl warrants assessment for early puberty. In a boy, testicular development and pubic hair before nine also require medical advice.
No breast development by thirteen or no periods by the fifteenth birthday are markers of delayed puberty. In boys, the marker is testicular development that has not started by fourteen.
The doctor examines the child and reviews the growth chart. They decide whether investigations such as a bone-age X-ray or hormone blood tests are needed; assessments are not identical for everyone.
A hormonal cause or another illness may be investigated, but a cause is not always found. Any treatment depends on the findings and the extent of the problem, rather than comparison with other children alone.
Bring the health record and note when changes were first noticed. Prepare the treatment history and your child’s questions; ask what the assessment should clarify and how growth follow-up will be arranged.
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Mon bilan prévention is an appointment to discuss your habits and choose your health priorities. Review the four age groups and practical information.