Early Puberty: Concerns About Growth and Development

Q: Early Puberty: Concerns About Growth and Development

Hello： Height is significantly related to genetics and body constitution. <br>A first-year junior high school student who is 160 cm tall is expected to grow taller gradually, although the growth may not be as noticeable as before. <br>However, maintaining good health is the most

Puberty Issues

Dear Doctor,
I started developing pubic hair and semen production in fifth grade, and by sixth grade, I had armpit hair and a noticeable Adam's apple, which I believe is a sign of precocious puberty.
During fifth and sixth grades, my height increased at a normal rate.
When I entered seventh grade, I was about 160 cm tall, but I only grew a few millimeters during the first year and haven't grown at all since then.
I've heard that once development is complete, height growth stops, and I suspect that I might have reached full development and that my growth plates have fused.

Although I've been going to bed late, sometimes around 11 or 12, I do exercise and drink milk regularly.
I used to go to bed at this time without any issues.
My mother is unaware of my development status, but she notices that other children my age are continuously growing taller, while I have not, which has led her to give me some growth supplements.

I would like to know if starting to sleep earlier now could still help me grow taller, or if there are other methods to potentially stimulate growth.
Is it possible that my development has already stopped? If I am fully developed, why is my penis still relatively small? I've been very worried and unable to sleep these past few days, which is why I'm seeking your assistance.
I hope you can answer my questions and provide appropriate advice.

Thank you.

alto, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/07/02

Dr. He Shenglong reply Pediatrics

Hello: Height is significantly related to genetics and body constitution.
A first-year junior high school student who is 160 cm tall is expected to grow taller gradually, although the growth may not be as noticeable as before.
However, maintaining good health is the most important factor.
A balanced diet, moderate exercise, and sufficient sleep are essential, and there are no special remedies for height increase; the so-called "growth medications" are not discussed in this context and cannot be commented on.
Although still in the developmental stage, if one is overweight, the accumulation of subcutaneous fat may give the appearance of a shorter penis.
It is advisable to relax and consider discussing this matter in person with an endocrinologist or a metabolism specialist.
Thank you for your letter!

Reply Date: 2016/07/02

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding early puberty and its implications on your growth and development. It’s understandable to feel anxious about these changes, especially when comparing yourself to peers. Let’s address your questions and provide some insights into your situation.

Firstly, early puberty, or precocious puberty, is defined as the onset of secondary sexual characteristics before age 9 in boys. The development of pubic hair, underarm hair, and changes in the voice you mentioned are indeed signs of puberty. However, the timing and progression of puberty can vary significantly among individuals.
Regarding your growth, it’s important to note that the growth plates in your bones, known as epiphyseal plates, close after puberty. Once these plates are fused, further height increase is unlikely. If you have experienced a significant slowdown in growth after initially growing normally, it may suggest that your growth plates are nearing closure. This is often assessed through an X-ray of your hand and wrist, which can show the status of your growth plates.

You mentioned that you are currently 160 cm tall and have not grown in height recently. It’s crucial to understand that while some boys continue to grow into their late teens, others may stop growing earlier, especially if they have entered puberty early. The average height for boys varies by age and genetics, so it’s essential to consider your family history as well.

As for your concerns about height and the effectiveness of growth supplements, it’s important to approach this with caution. Many over-the-counter growth supplements lack scientific backing and may not be effective. Instead, focusing on a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, regular exercise, and adequate sleep is the best approach to support your growth potential.

Regarding your sleep patterns, while getting enough sleep is essential for overall health and growth, it’s unlikely that simply adjusting your sleep schedule at this stage will significantly impact your height if your growth plates are already closing. However, establishing a consistent sleep routine is beneficial for your overall well-being and can help with mood and energy levels.

Lastly, your concerns about the size of your penis are also common among boys going through puberty. It’s important to remember that there is a wide range of normal sizes, and many boys experience growth in this area during puberty. If you have concerns about your development, discussing them with a healthcare provider can provide reassurance and guidance.

In conclusion, while it may be challenging to alter your growth trajectory at this stage, focusing on healthy lifestyle choices is vital. If you have ongoing concerns about your growth or development, I recommend consulting with a pediatric endocrinologist. They can provide a thorough evaluation and discuss any potential interventions if necessary.

Take care, and remember that everyone develops at their own pace. It’s essential to focus on your overall health and well-being rather than just height.

Best regards.

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