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PUBERTY FROM AN ENDOCRINOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE: WHEN HORMONES “KNOCK” ON THE TEENAGE BODY
According to endocrinologists, puberty is the stage where children begin their transition from childhood to adulthood, strongly influenced by the endocrine system. Typically, puberty starts in girls between 8–13 years old and in boys between 9–14 years old. However, precocious or delayed puberty is becoming increasingly common, requiring appropriate attention from parents and the healthcare sector.
Together with Dr. Truong Da Uyen, 1st-degree specialist, in explaining why puberty is a "comprehensive revolution" in a child's body, psychology, and emotions.
Hormone dance: Who is 'commanding' your child's puberty?
When children enter puberty, their bodies and emotions change rapidly. But what is truly happening inside? The answer lies in the 'symphony' controlled by hormones. Each hormone is like a 'musician' with its own role, and all work closely together to create one of the biggest developmental turning points in life.
1. GnRH – The starting signal whistle
Puberty begins when the brain (hypothalamus) secretes GnRH – a hormone like a starting whistle, awakening the pituitary gland to activity. The special thing is that GnRH is not secreted continuously, but "rhythmically" in a wave-like pattern, like successive waves initiating a larger bodily machine.
2. "Maturity assistants" from the pituitary gland
Upon receiving GnRH signals, the pituitary gland commences the release of two crucial hormones:
FSH helps eggs develop in females and stimulates the testes to produce sperm in males.
LH supports the production of progesterone (in females) and testosterone (in males).
These two hormones are the "sub-conductors" that help the reproductive organs gradually mature.
3. Estrogen, Progesterone & Testosterone – The main artists
In female, estrogen helps develop breasts, the uterus, the vagina, and a softer body shape. Progesterone plays a role in regulating the menstrual cycle and supporting uterine development.
In male, testosterone promotes muscle development, beard growth, voice mutation, and the development of genital organs. Notably, though in smaller amounts, female also has testosterone, which contributes to increased muscle mass and mild hair growth.
4. GH and IGF-1 – The "height-increasing" duo
These are two indispensable names in the growth race:
GH (growth hormone) from the pituitary gland helps bones lengthen.
IGF-1, primarily from the liver, is produced under the 'command' of GH; this duo strongly promotes the development of musculoskeletal systems.
Puberty is when children can grow an additional 8–12 cm/year if well cared for.
5. Adrenal androgens – Triggering “coming-of-age” sign
The adrenal glands produce androgens such as DHEA, DHEAS, androstenedione. Although these hormones do not directly control the reproductive organs, they are responsible for the growth of pubic hair, underarm hair, body odor, oily skin, and acne, which are changes that many teenagers... are both curious and worried about.
6. Kisspeptin and Leptin – Two silent messengers
Kisspeptin stimulates the brain to secrete GnRH – the initiator of the entire hormone domino chain.
Leptin, originating from adipose tissue, signals to the body that it is "ready" to enter puberty. Children with more body fat (such as those with obesity) often experience earlier puberty – this explains why nutrition affects the age of puberty.
7. Prolactin and Insulin – Important "logistics"
Prolactin supports mammary gland development in female.
Insulin, often associated with diabetes, but also participates in growth and metabolism – with a significant increase during puberty.
The differences between male and female in how hormones function make puberty both a miraculous and complex process. And precisely because of the close link between endocrinology – nutrition – psychology – genetics, any abnormality can affect the speed, timing, and quality of a child's development.
Emotional changes: From rebellious to vulnerable
Many parents are surprised to see their children easily irritable, 'sullen,' or experiencing erratic mood swings. According to endocrinologists, the sudden increase in hormones like estrogen and testosterone can affect the brain regions that control emotions, making children more sensitive, impulsive, and sometimes difficult to control their behavior.
Physical growth – a golden opportunity for height development
During puberty, children can grow an additional 8–12 cm/year if well cared for. Adequate nutrition, deep sleep (especially from 10 PM to 2 AM when growth hormone is secreted most abundantly), and appropriate physical activity are the 'golden trio' that helps optimize developmental potential.
Abnormalities to note
Some concerning conditions that may occur during puberty include:
Precocious puberty (before 8 years old in female, before 9 years old in male), possibly caused by endocrine disorders or hypothalamic tumors.
Delayed puberty (no signs after 13 years old in female, 14 years old in male), which can be related to pituitary or thyroid gland diseases.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in teenage female, causing menstrual irregularities, acne, and hirsutism.
Thyroid disorders, which can affect growth and psychomotor development.
When should a child see an endocrinologist?
An endocrinologist recommends that parents take their child for an examination if they notice the following signs:
Precocious or delayed puberty compared to their age.
Uneven development (e.g., breast development but no menstruation after two years).
Slow height growth, abnormal weight.
Prolonged abnormal psychological manifestations.
Puberty is not just about physical changes, but a pivotal stage in the journey of comprehensive development. Comprehending the body and correctly understanding hormones is how we accompany our children in the most scientific and humane way.
For consultation and to schedule an appointment for your child to be examined by endocrinologists, please contact Hotline (028) 3910 9999 or INBOX Fanpage https://m.me/aih.com.vn.
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