Question

What is puberty?

Answer 1

Puberty:

1. Puberty refers to the transition from a child to an adult accompanied by sexual maturity, physical and psychological changes, and the development of secondary sexual characteristics.
2. Puberty begins at an average age of 10 years for girls and 12 years for boys.
3. Environmental and genetic factors contribute to the onset of puberty.
4. Puberty begins when the hypothalamus secretes the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH).
5. Follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone are released from the pituitary gland on stimulation by GnRH.
6. Follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone trigger the sex organs to release sex hormones.

Changes observed in boys:

1. The testicles and scrotum become bigger.
2. Hair growth in the penis and underarms.
3. Increase in height and muscle mass.
4. A change in voice.
5. Body hair growth, sweating, and body odor.

Changes in girls:

1. Breast buds develop.
2. Under arm hair and pubic hair begins to grow.
3. An increase in height.
4. Skin becomes oily and acne may develop.
5. Menstruation beings at around 12 years.