In recent times, early puberty (or precocious puberty) in children has become one of the most frequently discussed and concerning topics among parents on social media. Reports indicate that the incidence of early puberty has surged, especially in girls.
According to WebMD, a health information and service provider to consumers, healthcare professionals, and employers, girls are about 10 times more likely than boys to experience an early puberty surge. In some cases, breast development has been observed in girls as young as 5, and menstruation has begun in girls as young as 8.
Precocious puberty refers to the onset of pubertal changes before the typical age, which is under 8 years for girls and under 9 years for boys. Normally, puberty starts between ages 8 to 13 in girls and 9 to 14 in boys. There are two types of early puberty: central precocious puberty, which is more common, and peripheral precocious puberty, which is rare.
Although early puberty is increasingly common, it is a condition that should not be overlooked. It carries psychological, physical, and emotional implications. Notably, girls are more frequently affected than boys, making them more vulnerable to the challenges of early puberty.
Girls who experience early puberty are at greater risk of developing depression, anxiety, substance abuse issues, and other psychological challenges. Additionally, early menstruation has been linked to a higher risk of breast or uterine cancer later in life.
Symptoms of Early Puberty
There are no strict criteria for diagnosing early puberty since hormonal changes and brain activity cannot be observed externally. However, key symptoms include:.
For Girls
- Development of breast buds
- A growth spurt-a rapid increase in height and sometimes weight gain
- Growth of pubic hair
- Body odour
- Acne starts to develop
- Periods start early
- Body shape changes- widening of hips
For Boys
- Enlargement of the penis, testicles, and scrotum
- Growth of pubic hair
- Adrenarche (early signs of puberty such as pubic hair)
- Deepening of the voice
Causes of Early Puberty
Several studies and experts have identified potential contributing factors to early puberty:
- Obesity is widely agreed upon as a leading factor.
- Exposure to plastics containing chemicals, such as bisphenol A (BPA), used in products like plastics and can linings.
- Hormone-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) found in plastics may influence the onset of puberty.
- Unhealthy diets, including processed and fast food, which can interfere with normal development.High total protein intake, especially animal protein, has been linked to earlier menstruation in girls.
- Reduced melatonin due to physical inactivity may accelerate pubertal development.
- Excessive soy consumption: Soy contains isoflavones that the body converts into phytoestrogens, which mimic estrogen.
- Stress and trauma, including sexual abuse, may also trigger early puberty.
- According to a new study presented at the 60th Annual European Society for Paediatric Endocrinology Meeting, the blue light emitted from phone and tablet screens may alter certain hormone levels, and increase the chance of early puberty in children.
Effects of Early Puberty
Early puberty can impact both the physical and mental health of children. The complications associated with precocious puberty include:
Stunted Growth
Children with precocious puberty may initially grow faster and appear taller than their peers. However, their bones mature more quickly than usual, leading to an earlier stop in growth, which can result in shorter-than-average adult height.
Social and Emotional Problems
Children who experience early puberty often feel self-conscious about their physical changes, which can affect their self-esteem and emotional well-being. A 2018 study found that girls who enter puberty earlier than their peers are more likely to experience mental health challenges, including an increased risk of depression, which may persist throughout adolescence.
- A lot is going on in their bodies, and hormonal changes result in mood swings and self-consciousness.
- They are also more vulnerable to being bullied by their peers because of their different body development.
- Adults and other children treat them beyond their age.
- They may experience sexual interest from others who think they are older.
How to Handle Early Puberty in Children?
Addressing the social and emotional difficulties of early puberty is crucial, as these challenges can lead to behavioral and health issues. Parents play a key role in providing support and care during this time. Here are some ways to help:
Healthy Conversation
- Begin discussing puberty early or as your child shows signs of it.
- Maintain open, non-judgmental conversations about the changes they are experiencing.
- Encourage curiosity and questions.
- Normalize discussions around puberty and menstruation.
- Respect your child’s feelings and help them feel comfortable.
- Provide age-appropriate resources to help them understand the changes in their bodies.
Promote a Positive Body Image
- Encourage strong self-esteem and confidence.
- Avoid commenting on their physical appearance.
- Focus on recognizing their achievements in academics, sports, and other activities.
- Support their interests and hobbies.
Watch for Warning Signs
Be alert for signs that your child may be struggling emotionally, such as:
- Poor or declining grades.
- School-related issues.
- A loss of interest in daily activities.
- Symptoms of depression.
Encourage a Healthy Lifestyle
- Promote regular physical activity and sports.
- Encourage healthy eating habits, including more vegetables and fewer animal-based foods, to reduce exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs).
- Establish a regular sleep routine.
Limit Sugar Intake
This point needs special attention because this is generally overlooked. A study in Human Reproduction found that girls who consume sugary beverages are more likely to experience early puberty than those who do not. Given the increasing consumption of processed foods, juices, and processed milk, the sugar intake has reached an insane level. It seems to have no limit, whether it comes to confectionaries, sweets, or other items.
Avoid Exposure to Hormonal-containing Products
- Avoid exposure to EDCs. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals are found in plastics, fuels, pesticides, and other products that halt or disrupt the natural hormonal balance. They accumulate in the fatty tissues of animals, and animals containing foods are more prone to have EDCs.
- Avoid exposure to oestrogen-containing shampoos and other synthetic products.
Seeking Medical Guidance
If you notice behavioral or physical changes in your child that cause concern, consult a doctor. Early medical intervention can help manage growth potential and alleviate the emotional and social pressures associated with early puberty.
Conclusion
While it is difficult to pinpoint the exact causes of early puberty, its negative impacts—especially on girls—are well-documented. Maintaining healthy habits and being mindful of environmental factors is crucial as these factors continue to evolve. Although no definitive studies have linked climate change to early puberty, it is essential to remain aware of possible influences.
Dr. Herman-Giddens, a professor at the University of North Carolina Gillings School of Global Public Health, found that in the mid-1990s, girls began developing breasts around age 10—more than a year earlier than previously recorded. Her decade-long observations revealed that some girls started developing breasts as early as ages 6 or 7.
Early puberty is a serious concern that affects both physical and emotional health. Parents should not ignore these changes and should seek medical advice to ensure their child receives appropriate care. During this critical phase, children need extra attention, love, and guidance to navigate the challenges of early maturation.
Authored by Afsheen Khan for Fujn