Specialized pediatric endocrinology care for children experiencing signs of puberty too soon.
Overview
When signs of puberty appear before age 8 in girls or age 9 in boys, doctors describe the pattern as early or “precocious” puberty. While some cases represent a normal variant, others reflect changes in hormones that deserve attention. Early puberty not only changes the body sooner than expected but can also influence growth, mood, and self-esteem.
At The Endocrine Co. we combine thorough evaluation with compassionate support. Our goal is to understand why puberty is beginning early and what it means for your child’s health and development.
Signs of Early Puberty
- Breast development before age 8 in girls
- Testicular enlargement before age 9 in boys
- Growth of pubic or underarm hair at an unusually young age
- Rapid height growth compared with peers
- Body odor, acne, or voice changes earlier than expected
- Emotional changes such as mood swings or increased sensitivity
Possible Causes
Some children simply start earlier due to family pattern. Others develop early because of hormone shifts in the brain or from other conditions. Common causes include:
- Central precocious puberty: early activation of the brain’s puberty signals (hypothalamus and pituitary).
- Peripheral precocious puberty: hormone production from the ovaries, testes, or adrenal glands outside the normal pathway.
- Benign variants: isolated breast development (thelarche) or isolated pubic hair growth (adrenarche) that do not progress to full puberty.
- Underlying conditions: thyroid disorders, genetic syndromes, or rarely tumors that alter hormone balance.
How We Evaluate
Evaluation starts with listening. We take a detailed history of growth, family patterns, and changes you have noticed. Next steps often include:
- Physical exam to assess growth and pubertal staging
- Growth chart review to evaluate height velocity
- Bone age X-ray to compare skeletal maturity with actual age
- Laboratory testing for hormones such as LH, FSH, estradiol, testosterone, and thyroid markers
- Imaging (such as MRI) in select cases where central causes are suspected
The aim is clarity. Families want to know if the process is harmless variation or a signal that treatment may help.
Treatment Options
Many children only need reassurance and careful monitoring. For those with progressive early puberty, treatment may include medication that pauses puberty until the right time. This approach protects adult height potential, supports emotional readiness, and aligns development with peers.
Each treatment plan is individualized, and progress is reviewed at regular intervals with clear explanations for families.
Emotional and Social Impact
Early puberty affects more than growth. Children may feel self-conscious or different from peers. Girls may face questions they are not ready to answer. Boys may struggle with rapid changes that affect mood or relationships. Families may worry about long-term effects on confidence and well-being.
Our team provides education, counseling referrals when needed, and ongoing support. We walk with families to make sure children feel understood, not isolated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is early puberty always a concern?
Not always. Some children experience benign early changes that do not progress. Others require evaluation and possible treatment. A pediatric endocrinology visit helps clarify the difference.
Will treatment delay puberty permanently?
No. Medications can safely pause puberty, and normal development resumes once treatment stops. The goal is timing, not prevention.
How does early puberty affect final height?
Early puberty can cause children to grow quickly at first but stop sooner, leading to shorter adult height. Treatment can protect growth potential when needed.
What role do hormones play?
Hormones such as estrogen and testosterone are responsible for the changes of puberty. In early puberty, these hormones rise too soon. Careful testing identifies whether this rise is normal or concerning.
Next Steps
If your child shows signs of puberty before age 8 in girls or 9 in boys, schedule an evaluation. We will listen, test, explain, and guide you toward the right plan.
Explore related topics: Delayed Puberty, Growth Problems, Thyroid Disorders.
Contact The Endocrine Co. in Orlando to request a visit or to learn about virtual care options.