Puberty is a term that describes the time in life when the body matures sexually and the reproductive organs become functional. It is caused by a release of the sex hormones testosterone and oestrodiol in the body.
Puberty causes:
- physical changes, such as rapid growth spurts, the development of breasts in girls and an increase in penis size in boys
- psychological changes that can cause teenagers to become moody, self-conscious and aggressive
- behavioural changes that can cause some teenagers to experiment with new and potentially risky activities, such as smoking, drinking, alcohol and sex
When does puberty start?
There is no set age for puberty to start. The age at which puberty begins and the rate of development differs from child to child.
Most girls will begin puberty at 8-14 years of age, with the average age being 11. Girls develop more quickly than boys. Most girls reach full sexual maturity within four years of beginning puberty.
Boys tend to develop later than girls, and the development process usually takes longer. Most boys begin puberty at 9-14 years of age, with the average age being 12. Most boys reach maturity within six years of beginning puberty.
