Puberty is the stage where children gradually transition to adulthood under the influence of sex hormones. In girls, this process typically begins between 8-13 years old. Early puberty is defined by the appearance of sexual development signs before the age of 8, such as breast development, growth of pubic or underarm hair, rapid height increase, acne, body odor, or menstruation.

Master of Science and Doctor Do Tien Son, from the Pediatrics Unit at Tam Anh Cau Giay General Clinic, states that when sex hormones become active too early, both the physical and psychological well-being of children can be affected. This is especially true for girls, as changes in breast development, body shape, and menstruation are more noticeable.

Reduced adult height

Many girls experiencing early puberty have a period of rapid growth, which might lead parents to believe their child is developing well. However, this growth spurt is often short-lived.

When sex hormones increase prematurely, bones mature faster, and growth plates close early, shortening the period for height development. Children might be taller than their peers when young but end up shorter as adults, particularly if early puberty progresses rapidly.

Psychological impact

Girls experiencing early puberty at 6-7 years old may feel fear or shame as their bodies undergo changes like breast development, body odor, hair growth, or menstruation before their peers. They might avoid changing clothes in front of others, limit physical activity, hesitate to wear light-colored clothing, or worry about peer attention, leading to difficulty socializing. If adults tease or discuss their bodies, feelings of self-consciousness intensify.

Doctor Son consults parents and children on early puberty screening results. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Daily life challenges

Premature menstruation due to early puberty also causes many inconveniences for girls. Children might not know how to practice proper hygiene, feeling confused when experiencing menstrual symptoms like abdominal pain, dizziness, or heavy bleeding. Doctor Son advises parents to educate their children early about private body parts in such cases, to prevent them from feeling scared or uncomfortable.

Increased disease risk

According to Doctor Son, early puberty accelerates a child's physical development prematurely, while bones and organs are not yet fully mature for their chronological age. Early puberty also leads to sudden hormonal imbalances, increasing the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

If a girl shows signs of puberty before the age of 8, parents should seek medical evaluation for their child. Early detection helps doctors identify risks to height, psychological well-being, and associated health issues, allowing for appropriate treatment recommendations.

Van Anh