Puberty: Onset and Progression

Abstract

Puberty is an important process that providers of health care to children and adolescents should be comfortable discussing. The normal process of puberty is complex and involves many different hormonal pathways. A clear understanding of these pathways will help providers counsel patients on what to expect as they anticipate and progress through puberty as well as be alerted when puberty is not progressing normally. Both early and late puberty can have physical and psychological implications for the pediatric population. Being familiar with the common causes and initial testing of abnormal puberty will allow the primary care provider to monitor appropriately and initiate further investigation if warranted. This article reviews both the typical pubertal pathway as well as delayed and premature puberty and their common causes. [Pediatr Ann. 2019;48(4):e141-e145.].