When a child reaches puberty, the hypothalamus in the brain begins to secrete gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which stimulates the pituitary gland to release luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). These hormones then prompt the ovaries or testes to produce estrogen and testosterone. In girls, if this process occurs before 8 years of age, it is considered precocious puberty. During puberty, children typically show signs of maturity, including rapid bone growth, mood changes, body odor, breast development, and the gradual maturation of reproductive organs.

The causes of precocious puberty vary depending on gender and age of onset. Central precocious puberty occurs when the brain-pituitary-gonadal axis activates prematurely. Possible causes include brain tumors, damage or radiation exposure affecting the central nervous system, genetic syndromes (such as McCune-Albright syndrome), ventricular dilation, hypothyroidism, or congenital adrenal hyperplasia. In many cases, the exact cause remains unknown.

Peripheral precocious puberty occurs when the body abnormally secretes sex hormones (estrogen or androgen) from the ovaries, testes, or adrenal glands, without activation from the brain. This condition is often linked to tumors, hormone-containing medications, or metabolic disorders.

Additional risk factors for precocious puberty include obesity, exposure to endocrine disruptors like BPA and phthalates (found in plastics), and certain pesticides. Exposure to hormones through food and cosmetics (such as products containing estrogen, phytoestrogens, or steroids) can also contribute.

If you suspect your child is showing signs of precocious puberty, you should monitor them closely, record the date of the first symptom, and take them to a pediatric endocrinology specialist for examination. Based on clinical manifestations, the doctor may order blood tests to measure hormone levels. Girls often undergo a uterus and ovarian ultrasound, and a hand X-ray to assess bone age. In some cases, a brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan may be necessary to rule out central nervous system lesions.

If treatment is indicated, children may receive puberty-blocking medication through a monthly or quarterly injection regimen. This aims to slow the progression of puberty, helping them achieve their maximum height potential and ensuring appropriate psychological and physiological development. Some instances of precocious puberty related to pituitary conditions, brain tumors, or other endocrine abnormalities require specialized intervention.

The decision to stop treatment is individualized, considering the child's biological age, bone age, any adverse effects, and family consent. Once treatment ceases, the body resumes sex hormone production, and normal puberty continues. Girls typically experience menstruation again after approximately 6-18 months.

During treatment, parents should ensure their child maintains a healthy diet and lifestyle to maximize treatment effectiveness. Encourage scientific eating habits, limit fried foods high in oil, sugary drinks, and carbonated beverages, and promote regular physical activity. Currently, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that excessive milk consumption causes precocious puberty. Conversely, overly restricting or eliminating milk can lead to essential micronutrient deficiencies for growth and immunity. Children need adequate sleep before 10 p.m., ensuring deep sleep for optimal growth hormone secretion, which supports continued height growth at the rate of the prepubertal age.

Parents should also engage in open conversations and provide psychological support to help children understand their bodily changes. Limit their exposure to electronic devices, movies, and games with age-inappropriate content. Providing age-appropriate sex education and life skills helps children protect themselves and avoid risks of abuse or distorted perceptions.

Children with precocious puberty often experience rapid height growth initially. However, early bone ossification causes the growth plates to close sooner than usual, limiting their adult height. This health condition also affects their psychology, as children may feel isolated and self-conscious.

To reduce the risk of precocious puberty, maintain a balanced diet for your child and prevent overweight or obesity, especially in girls. Avoid early use of cosmetics or low-quality medications, plastics, and canned goods that can affect the endocrine system. Families should also ensure children receive regular health check-ups.

Master, Doctor Do Tien Son

Department of Pediatrics, Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi