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Tanner stage 1

These early signals typically start after a girl’s 8th birthday and after a boy’s 9th or 10th birthday. There aren’t any noticeable physical changes for boys or girls at this stage.

Tanner stage 2

Stage 2 marks the beginning of physical development. Hormones begin to send signals throughout the body.

Girls

Puberty usually starts between ages 9 and 11. The first signs of breasts, called “buds,” start to form under the nipple. Small amounts of pubic hair start growing on the lips of the vagina.

Boys

In boys, puberty usually starts around age 11. The testicles begin to get bigger. Also, early stages of pubic hair forms on the base of the penis

Tanner stage 3

Physical changes are becoming more obvious.

Girls

Physical changes in girls usually start after age 12. These changes include:

• Breast “buds” continue to grow and expand.
• Pubic hair gets thicker and curlier
• Hips and thighs start to build up fat.

Boys

Physical changes in boys usually start around age 13. These changes include:

• Penis gets longer as testicles continue to grow bigger.
• Boys begin to have wet dreams.
• As the voice begins to change, it may “crack,” going from high to lower pitches.
• Muscles get larger.

Tanner stage 4

Puberty is in full swing during stage 4. Both boys and girls are noticing many changes.

Girls

In girls, stage 4 usually starts around age 13. Changes include:

• Breasts take on a fuller shape, passing the bud stage.
• Many girls get their first period, typically between ages of 12 and 14, but it can happen earlier.
• Pubic hair gets thicker.

Boys

In boys, stage 4 usually starts around age 14. Changes include:

• Testicles, penis, and scrotum continue to get bigger, and the scrotum will get darker in color.
• Armpit hair starts to grow.
• Deeper voice becomes permanent.

Tanner stage 5

This final phase marks the end of a child’s physical maturation.

Girls

In girls, stage 5 usually happens around age 15. Changes include:

• Breasts reach approximate adult size and shape, though breasts can continue to change through age 18.
• Periods become regular after six months to two years.
• Pubic hair fills out to reach the inner thighs.
• Reproductive organs and genitals are fully developed.
• Hips, thighs, and buttocks fill out in shape.

Boys

In boys, stage 5 usually starts around age 15. Changes include:

• Penis, testicles, and scrotum will have reached adult size.
• Pubic hair has filled in and spread to the inner thighs.
• Facial hair will start coming in and some boys will need to begin shaving.
• Growth in height will slow down, but muscles may still be growing.
• By age 18 most boys have reached full growth.