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<p><strong>PUBERTY:</strong><br>Adolescence is a stage of transition between childhood and adulthood. During this stage, changes in body structure and size occur, mediated by hormones. In addition to physical changes, there is also growth and changes in psychology. Puberty refers to the physical aspect of this transition period of adolescence. It starts with activation of the HPA Axis (Hypothalamus Pituitary Gonadal axis) and it triggers the release of a series of hormone secretion and their effects. These lead to the development of secondary sexual characteristics during puberty.&nbsp;<br>For Girls, the onset of puberty is between the age of 8 and 13 years. It starts with the development of breasts, followed by the appearance of pubic hair, and finally menstruation. The average age for the onset of menstruation is 12 - 16 years.&nbsp;<br>For Boys, the onset of puberty is between the age of&nbsp; 9 to 14 years. There is an increase in the size of genitalia, increase in the size of testes, growth of pubic hair,&nbsp; facial hair, axillary hair, voice changes, and finally production of sperms.<br>Increase in height usually stops after puberty changes are complete.<br>Growth and puberty monitoring are necessary to pick up deviations while they are still rectifiable so that full height potential is achieved. During this period regular monitoring by the doctor is important to identify deviations early so that timely interventions can be made.</p>
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