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PUBERTY – THE CHILD'S "HORMONAL REVOLUTION" THAT PARENTS CANNOT IGNORE
When parents suddenly realize that their child has grown significantly taller in just a few months or has become more irritable and emotionally unpredictable for no clear reason, it may not simply be “teenage rebellion,” but rather the early signs of puberty – a transformative journey of both physical and emotional growth for children. So, when does puberty begin? What is considered normal, and when should a child see a doctor? The article below will help parents understand more and accompany their child appropriately.
► What is puberty? When does your child begin puberty?
Puberty is considered a transformative phase of the body, from a child becoming a biologically mature individual. This is when the brain’s “central control unit” sends signals awakening a series of growth hormones.
Typically, girls begin puberty between the ages of 8 and 13, while boys usually begin between 9 and 14. If your child shows signs of puberty earlier or later than these milestones, it could be signs of an endocrine-related problem and require specialized care. Detecting and intervening at the right time will help the child develop balanced and stability, as well as avoid long-term health impacts later on.
► What’s happening inside your child’s body?
Under the control of the brain-pituitary-gonadal axis, hormones start to “speak up”:
Estrogen (in female) helps the mammary glands develop, softens the body’s features, and triggers menstruation.
Testosterone (in male) deepens the voice, promotes muscle growth, and causes beard and underarm hair to grow.
Growth Hormone (GH) promotes a height "surge" - some children can grow an additional 10-15 cm/year.
The result is a dramatic transformation in the child: from physique to skin, from voice to facial expressions.
► When the child's psychology is also “stormy” like their own body
Puberty is not just about changes in appearance; it is also a psychologically highly sensitive period. Endocrine hormones directly affect the brain regions that control emotions, causing children to frequently experience erratic states. You will easily notice your child becoming more sensitive, easily irritable, or unexplained sad. Some children withdraw, becoming more introverted, while others grow stubborn, rebellious and want to express their personality.
Many parents feel worried when their child becomes “hard to understand” or communication grows distant. However, this is completely natural. The most important thing during this phase is for parents to stay calm, avoid yelling, scolding, imposing. Instead, be patient, listen, share and accompany your child as a friend. Understanding and love will help your child get through puberty more steadily and safely.
► This is a golden time to maximize your children’s height
Many studies have shown that puberty is a “golden opportunity,” for children to achieve their best height growth in life. To optimize growth, parents need to pay attention to three main factors: nutrition, sleep, and physical exercise.
Proper nutrition: Sufficient protein, calcium, vitamin D, and zinc
Deep and sufficient sleep: Especially from 10 P.M. to 2 A.M. – “golden hour” for GH secretion.
Daily exercise: Jump rope, swimming, and outdoor sports help naturally increase growth hormone.
► Warning signs for an early check-up
While puberty is a natural stage, it doesn’t always come smoothly and safely. Parents should consider taking their child to see a pediatric endocrinologist if any of the following warning signs appear:
A girl starts menstruating before turning 8 or has no sign of puberty by 13. A boy shows some sexual features, namely, voice crack, premature growth of hair before 9, or showing no change after 14.
A child's height increasing too quickly, too slowly, or suspected "early closed growth plate" are also noteworthy signs. Moreover, in girls, if they experience signs of menstrual irregularities, severe breakouts, and unexplained abdominal obesity, this could indicate early signs of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Other symptoms, including regular fatigue, decreased focus, feeling cold, or declining academic performance, could be related to thyroid disorders. This requires timely examination and testing.
► Endocrinologist – A companion for parents guiding their children to grow up properly
According to Dr. Truong Da Uyen, Specialist Level 1 in Endocrinology and Head of Outpatient Department at American International Hospital (AIH), puberty should not be viewed as a crisis, but rather as a launching pad for physical and mental growth. During consultations and check-ups, an endocrinologist would perform a clinical examination, evaluating sexual maturity as well as bone age by hormonal tests and metacarpal X-rays. Depending on specific conditions, the doctor might suggest hormonal regulation medication, provide appropriate nutritional counseling, and offer psychological support to help children grow and develop holistically.
This stage demands deep empathy and support from parents. Be your child’s companion, someone who listens, supports, and gently guides them growing up properly not only physical but also mental. A smooth and proper puberty lays the solid foundation for a healthy, confident, and happy future of your child.
EARLY PUBERTY SCREENING PROGRAM FOR CHILDREN AT AIH
The Early Puberty Screening Program at AIH aims to detect early signs of puberty promptly, enabling early intervention to prevent such development. The program also supports optimal height growth in maturity and minimizes the psychological and social negative impacts on children.
At AIH, children with signs of early puberty are examined by both Pediatricians and Endocrinologists. Doctors evaluate growth and development through blood tests, hand X-rays, abdominalpelvic ultrasounds... From there, a personalized treatment plan is developed based on each particular condition. Treatment options vary depending on the cause.
To learn more about the Early Puberty Screening Program for children, please contact our Hotline at (028) 3910 9999 or send us a message via our Fanpage: https://m.me/aih.com.vn for detailed consultation.
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