Concerns About Height Growth in a 5-Year-Old Girl: When to Seek Help?

Could you please specify your question regarding height?

Hello, doctor.
I have a 5-year-and-9-month-old girl who has grown 7 centimeters in height over the past year.
Is this too much? Should we see an endocrinologist? I'm worried she might enter puberty early...
Thank you for your response.
(Her height and weight growth percentiles have consistently been around 50%-70% since she was little.) I read online that children aged 4-9 typically grow only 4-6 centimeters per year, but my daughter has grown 7 centimeters.
Additionally, I found information online stating that rapid height growth before age 9 could indicate early onset of puberty, which makes me a bit concerned as a mother.
Should I take her to see a doctor earlier? Thank you for your response.

Liang Bao Ma, 0~9 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/25

Dr. Lin Yishou reply Pediatrics

Hello, parents.
Your child is 5 years and 9 months old and has grown 7 centimeters, which is a good growth rate.
As for whether they have entered puberty, it is determined by the presence of secondary sexual characteristics.
If you have concerns, it is best to consult a physician for confirmation.
Thank you for your message.

Reply Date: 2021/07/25

More Info

When it comes to concerns about height growth in children, especially in a 5-year-old girl who has grown 7 centimeters in a year, it's understandable for parents to feel anxious. The average growth rate for children aged 4 to 9 years is typically around 4 to 6 centimeters per year. However, growth patterns can vary significantly among children due to a variety of factors, including genetics, nutrition, and overall health.

In your case, a growth of 7 centimeters in one year is slightly above the average range, but it is not necessarily a cause for alarm. Children can experience growth spurts, and it is not uncommon for some to grow more than the average during certain periods. The key is to monitor the growth over time rather than focusing on a single year. If your daughter’s height and weight have consistently fallen within the 50th to 70th percentile, this suggests that she is growing at a healthy rate relative to her peers.

Regarding concerns about early puberty, it is important to note that signs of precocious puberty in girls include the development of secondary sexual characteristics (such as breast development or pubic hair) before the age of 8. If your daughter has not shown any of these signs, it is less likely that she is entering puberty early. However, if you notice any physical changes that concern you, it would be prudent to consult a pediatrician or an endocrinologist.

If you are still worried about her growth rate or potential early puberty, it may be beneficial to seek a consultation with a pediatric endocrinologist. They can assess her growth patterns, perform necessary tests (such as bone age assessments), and provide reassurance or intervention if needed. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your child's health.

In summary, while your daughter’s growth of 7 centimeters in a year is slightly above average, it is not necessarily a cause for concern, especially if she has been consistently growing within a healthy range. Keep monitoring her growth, and if you have any doubts or notice any signs of early puberty, do not hesitate to seek professional advice. Regular check-ups with a pediatrician can help ensure that she is developing appropriately and can provide peace of mind for you as a parent.

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