How Puberty Changes the Body

Puberty changes the body through hormone signals that prepare the body for reproduction. It usually begins between ages 8 and 13 in girls and 9 and 14 in boys, although genetics, environment, and overall health can affect timing. During this stage, secondary sexual characteristics develop and reproductive potential is reache...

Puberty typically begins around ages 8 to 13 in females and 9 to 14 in males, signaling the onset of reproductive maturity.

Puberty begins with bursts of Luteinizing hormone and Follicle-stimulating hormone secretion triggered by Gonadotropin-releasing hormone pulses. These pulses increase in frequency over three to four years until adult...