Human Body: Puberty

Puberty

Puberty is the the period of time, during adolescence, when a child’s body changes into that of an adult and the reproductive system starts to work.

Most girls reach puberty at 10–12 years, and boys reach it at 12–14 years.

Endocrine System

Endocrine systemStructures or glands that secrete hormones causing bodily

functions, including the onset of puberty.The pituitary gland controls the body’s growth and the level

of water in the body.

Hormone A chemical messenger that is made by an endocrine gland and

carried in the blood to its target tissue or organ.

Hormones Involved in Puberty

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone, or GnRH for short. When GnRH reaches the pituitary gland, this gland releases

into the bloodstream two more puberty hormones: luteinizing hormone (LH for short) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH for short)

Puberty Hormones in Males

FSH and LH travel through the blood and give the testes the signal to begin the production of testosterone and sperm

Testosterone is the hormone that causes most of the changes in a male’s body during puberty

Sperm cells must be produced for men to reproduce

Puberty Hormones in Females

FSH and LH target the ovaries, which contain eggs that have been there since birth. The hormones stimulate the ovaries to begin producing another

hormone called estrogen.

Estrogen, along with FSH and LH, causes a girl's body to mature and prepares her for pregnancy.

Effects of PubertyPhysical changes in males

An increase in size and weight (growth), broadening of the shoulders, growth of facial and body hair, voice deepens, sexual organs become larger and the penis is able to become erect. Sperm are produced.

Physical changes in females Increase in size (growth), change of body shape, including the

formation of breasts and the widening of the hips, both in preparation for childbearing. Body hair grows around the genitals and under the arms. The menstrual cycle begins, involving ovulation.

Emotional changes in males and females These include mood swings, anxiety, intense sexual feelings, and

changes in relationships with others.