Early puberty in boys

[retainertrainer]

I don’t know if I need to see a gp about this.

When DS was 8 he noticed the start of pubic hair swiftly followed by b.o. I asked for a phone consultation with the doctor and he reassured me that it was ok and nothing to be concerned about.

Fast forward to and DS is turning 10 in March. He’s now got quite a bit of pubic hair and underarm hair. B.O is kept at bay with daily washing and deodorant.

I’m worried I was given bad advice by the first g.p and that this is too early. He’s average height for his age.

Any suggestions/experience?

Hi, BO is adrenarche rather than 'proper' puberty and I think pubic hair is too, but increase in size of testicles is the start of 'proper' puberty, and shouldn't happen before 9 in boys. (I am not medical, just have a child with related medical issues.)

A paediatric endocrinologist would check testicle size against an orchidometer to assess stage of puberty. Boys shouldn't start puberty before 9. I would say if you are worried, to go back to your gp and ask for a referral, and if they refuse, ask them to explain in detail why they don't think there's reason for further investigation. Good luck. I hope everything is ok.

Thank you for the reply. I don’t want the gp to think I’m neurotic when he’s already reassured me once but I am still concerned although he’s not showing any other signs so far.

My ds is 12 and he has no pubic/underarm hair but it's seeing changes in his body instead. He also uses antiperspirant.