Early Puberty in Girls and Boys in Orlando FL

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Slowing Development When Hormones Rev Up

For many kids – especially girls – early puberty, or precocious puberty, can leave them feeling confused or embarrassed. Their maturity level hasn’t developed as fast as their physical appearance, so it’s not surprising they may not be emotionally ready for the adult changes their bodies are going through. They feel a loss when their childhood is cut short and low self-esteem when their classmates start looking at them differently.

After years of supporting kids who’ve experienced early puberty, children’s endocrinologist Dr. Penny Pauley of The Endocrine Co knows how stressful standing out from others can be. Instead of just treating the condition, she treats the patient – giving them a safe space to share their feelings and worries and offering emotional support to help them become comfortable in their bodies.

Early puberty isn’t a single event – it’s a process that can last four years or more.

What Causes Early Puberty?

A child’s body can mature faster than usual for a variety of reasons, including genetics, obesity, environmental triggers, and hyperthyroidism. Boys who present signs of puberty before age 9 and girls who do before age 8 are often diagnosed with the condition. Some common signs include:

For girls

Rapid height growth
Early breast development
Start of menstruation before age 10
Pubic or underarm hair development
Acne

For boys

Rapid height growth
Enlargement of the testicles or penis
Public, underarm, or facial hair development
Acne

Although early puberty is rarely a sign of a serious issue, the long-term consequences can follow kids through their teen years into adulthood. Studies show that girls who mature early are at a greater risk for depression and anxiety, risky behaviors, teen pregnancy, and breast and reproductive cancer. Early-maturing boys rarely display signs of depression, but over time, they may experience increased anxiety and a negative self-image. That’s why addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of early puberty is so important.

How is Early Puberty in Teens Diagnosed and Treated?

To diagnose early puberty, Dr. Penny will review your child’s and your family’s medical history, perform a physical exam, and run blood tests to measure hormone and thyroid levels. In some cases, she may call for an X-ray to determine your child’s bone age or an MRI to rule out a brain abnormality.

As with late puberty, treatment for precocious puberty depends on the diagnosed cause. For example, if Dr. Penny finds your child is struggling with a thyroid condition, prescription medication can often bring hormones back in balance and puberty back under control. If there’s no underlying condition, hormone therapy can slow development until your child reaches the normal age of puberty.

During your child’s care, Dr. Penny will help care for their mental and emotional health, and if needed, refer your child to a therapist or psychologist for additional support as they maneuver through their new normal.

Schedule Your Visit With an Early Puberty Specialist in Florida

Because Dr. Penny is a direct patient children’s endocrinologist, she can provide your child with the care you won’t find anywhere else. Learn how The Endocrine Co’s unique approach to pediatrics can get your favorite kid back to their childhood sooner. Schedule your free 15-minute meet-and-greet consultation.