What is early puberty?

Puberty is the time when a boy’s body grows into a man’s body. Puberty starts with a change in hormones. Because of a change in hormones released from the brain, your child’s testicles start making testosterone. Testosterone is the main hormone that starts the changes that happen when boys go through puberty.

Early puberty in boys starts before the age of 9. It may also be called precocious puberty.

Early puberty may keep your son from growing to his expected height.

What is the cause?

The exact cause is not always known. Early puberty may run in the family. It may be caused by something that affects the release of hormones, such as:

• An injury or other problem with the brain or spinal cord
• A tumor or other problem with the adrenal, pituitary, or thyroid glands that produce hormones
• Use of testosterone or estrogen medicines, including some natural remedies

If your child shows signs of early puberty, he should be checked by his healthcare provider.

What are the symptoms?

Usually the first symptom of early puberty in a boy is that his testicles start getting bigger. This is a symptom often missed by parents. After a year or two, other symptoms include:

• Hair on his face, in the pubic area, or under his arms
• A big growth spurt because of growth in bones and muscles
• Deepening of his voice

How is it diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will ask about your child’s symptoms and medical history and examine your child.

Tests may include:

• X-rays
• Blood tests
• An MRI, which uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to show detailed pictures of the brain

Your child may be referred to a specialist for other tests.

How is it treated?

Treatment depends on the cause. Early puberty is often treated with medicine that slows the release of hormones that start puberty. This allows more time for your child to grow to a normal adult height.

How can I take care of my child?

Follow the full course of treatment prescribed by your healthcare provider. In addition:

• Talk to your child about the changes in his body. Explain that the changes are a normal part of growing up, even if they are early. If he is taking medicine for the problem, explain how the medicine will help.
• Talk to brothers and sisters to help prevent teasing.

Ask your provider:

• How and when you will hear your child’s test results
• What symptoms or problems you should watch for and what to do if your child has them

Make sure you know when your child should come back for a checkup. Keep all appointments for provider visits or tests.