Frequently asked questions

My child is smaller than all the other children in the classroom and certainly smaller than my other children. Should I be concerned?

When is it too early for my child to be starting puberty?

All children have body changes at puberty. For some children, these changes come early. Signs of sexual maturity in girls include breast development. In boys, the penis and testicles grow larger. Both boys and girls have an increase in their growth, growing suddenly taller. Pubic hair and skin that has become more oily may be present in both boys and girls. Many times, early sexual maturation is not a medical problem. Talk with your child's doctor about your child's signs of sexual maturation. Girls under age seven or boys under age nine who have signs of sexual maturation may benefit from an evaluation for early (precocious) puberty, but first discuss your concerns with your child's physician.

When is it late for my child to be starting puberty?

My child is overweight. Could this be a hormonal problem?