Major Changes in Girls and Boys During Puberty
In this article we will discuss some major changes that occur in girls and boys in puberty. Firstly let’s talk about what is puberty. Puberty is a stage in human development when the reproductive organs start working. At this stage, girls ovulate for the first time and boys can ejaculate. Certain new changes such as pubic and facial hair, enlarged breasts and genitals begin to appear. Emotions and feelings also changes during this period.
Puberty occurs due to the hormonal action. It starts in the brain where the hypothalamus triggers the pituitary gland to start to produce hormones. These hormones cause changes in the ovaries in girls and testes in boys. In girls, the ovaries start to release an ovum each month causing menstruation. They also produce female sex hormones oestrogen and progesterone. In the boys, the testes start to produce sperm. They also produce the male sex hormones testosterone. These hormones help the reproductive organs and genitals to continue to develop.
All the changes that take place during puberty, including the enlarged breasts and genitals and growth of body hair, are caused by the release of hormones. This occurs at different times and rates for each individual. The changes take place more quickly for some and even in a different order.
The most common changes in girls during puberty are breasts development and growth of pubic hair around the genitals. Hair also grows under the arms, and legs. During puberty, girls grow a lot over a short period of time when the pituitary gland send growth hormones around the body, but it varies to individuals. Girls start to have period at about 13 year of age. They sweat more especially under arms and around the genitals. The voice gets a bit deeper and muscles get bigger. Clitoris grows and becomes more sensitive. The uterus becomes pear shaped.
The most common changes in boys during puberty are penis development and growth of pubic hair around the genitals. Now boys have more and more erections. They have nocturnal emissions (wet dreams). Hair also grows under the arms and on legs and face. During puberty, testes get bigger and start to produce sperm. Scrotum gets darker and changes texture. Voice breaks wavering between high and low notes. Boys sweat more especially around their genitals areas.
After puberty the teenage years start when immaturity and dependence gradually give way to maturity and independence. It is a time of emotional stress and strain, change in sexual characteristics and body image and high sex interest.
Disclaimer: This article is not meant to provide health advice and is for general information only. Always seek the insights of a qualified health professional before embarking on any health program.
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