Development 13-15 Yrs: Changing Bodies
Everybody's different... and every body is different. Some girls are
reaching full physical maturity and some are only beginning the process.
Some boys move into mid-puberty while others worry about their lack of
development.
It's not a competition and these variations can
be difficult for slow developers. It's important to reassure them that
their rate of early development is not related to final physical potential.
It's a man's world
Testicle and scrotum growth begins in
early to mid-puberty. Penis growth starts a bit later but continues for
a longer period. A penis will grow longer first, followed by overall broadening,
and as development begins 'wet dreams' are likely. Now spontaneous erections
can happen at inconvenient times - often a source of great embarrassment.
Your teen also begins to grow pubic hair, which
becomes thicker as he moves through puberty. He may develop light facial
hair but is unlikely to need to shave at this point. His voice may deepen
and even begin to crack, and he may develop acne as a result of oilier
skin and hair.
Growth spurts
Many boys start to shoot up in height
around this age. They also experience muscle growth and start to take
on a manly physique. The growth spurt may be delayed for a few boys, who
are also likely to have late pubertal growth in other areas (including
late penis growth). This can cause a teenager considerable anguish. A
doctor's reassurance can help him to understand that he will grow eventually
and that many other boys are in the same situation.
Little women
The average age of the onset of menstruation
is around 12. It's usually preceded by a vaginal discharge. Early menstruation
is often irregular but usually settles into a regular pattern over the
next year or so. Some girls experience painful cramps during the first
years of menstruation and may want to consult their doctors.
Depending on the age of pubertal onset, your
teen may be almost physically mature at 15 and is likely to be close to
her full adult height. She may have a woman's figure, although her breasts
and hips may still become fuller. Her pubic hair becomes thick and curly
and may extend to her inner thighs.
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