Should I Take My Son to the Doctor for Urology Concerns?

Does my son need to see a doctor?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask if my son needs to see a doctor.
I once took him to Wulai for a hot spring, and I noticed that my son, who is in his second year of high school, has a very good physique (all muscle).
His penis is normal and he has an Adam's apple, but he does not have pubic hair.
Is this a sign of a problem? What should I do? (My older son mentioned that my younger son has had sexual experiences.)

Ming Wei, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/02/08

Dr. Chen Xiuyi reply Urology

Hello! The prominence of secondary sexual characteristics is related to the secretion of sex hormones.
The absence of pubic hair, while having other secondary sexual characteristics, does not necessarily indicate an abnormality; a hormone evaluation can be arranged.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chen Hsiu-Yi, Director of the Urology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2004/02/08

More Info

When it comes to concerns regarding your son's urology health, particularly in the context of puberty and sexual development, it is important to approach the situation with both sensitivity and a focus on medical guidance. Given that your son is in high school and appears to be physically well-developed, it is understandable that you may have questions about his development, especially regarding the presence of secondary sexual characteristics such as pubic hair.

Firstly, it is essential to recognize that puberty can manifest differently in each individual. While some boys may develop pubic hair earlier, others may take longer to show these signs. The onset of puberty typically occurs between the ages of 9 and 14 for boys, and it can last several years. The development of secondary sexual characteristics, including the growth of pubic hair, is influenced by hormonal changes in the body, primarily driven by testosterone.

In your case, the absence of pubic hair at this stage does not necessarily indicate a medical issue, especially if other signs of puberty, such as a normal penis size and the presence of a Adam's apple (laryngeal prominence), are present. However, if you have concerns about your son's development, particularly if he is experiencing any discomfort, unusual symptoms, or if there are significant discrepancies in his physical development compared to his peers, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional.

Here are some considerations for when to take your son to the doctor:
1. Delayed Development: If your son is 16 years old and has not developed any pubic hair or other secondary sexual characteristics, it may be worth discussing with a pediatrician or a urologist. They can assess whether this is within the normal range of development or if further evaluation is needed.

2. Physical Symptoms: If your son experiences any pain, discomfort, or other physical symptoms related to his genital area, it is important to seek medical advice. Symptoms such as swelling, redness, or unusual discharge should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

3. Hormonal Concerns: If there are concerns about hormonal imbalances or if your son is experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, mood changes, or changes in appetite, these could be signs of an underlying issue that warrants medical attention.

4. Sexual Health: Given that your older son mentioned that your younger son has had sexual experiences, it may also be beneficial to discuss sexual health and education with him. Ensuring that he understands safe practices and the importance of regular health check-ups is crucial.

5. Open Communication: Encourage your son to express any concerns he may have about his body or development. Open communication can help him feel more comfortable discussing sensitive topics, including those related to sexual health.

In conclusion, while the absence of pubic hair alone may not be a cause for alarm, it is always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to health concerns. Consulting a healthcare professional can provide clarity and peace of mind, ensuring that your son receives appropriate guidance and care as he navigates this important stage of development.

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