What are the symptoms of precocious puberty in children?
Precocious puberty refers to the emergence of mature sexual characteristics and behaviors in children during the normal physiological development period. Although this situation is not uncommon, it can cause a lot of psychological and physical distress to children and families. So, how to judge whether a child has precocious puberty? What are the specific symptoms? The following is introduced from four aspects.
Physiological characteristics
Children with precocious puberty will show some obvious physiological characteristics, such as girls\’ breasts developing earlier than 8 years old, boys\’ penis and testicles enlarging earlier than 9 years old, girls\’ menstruation starting earlier than 8 years old, and boys\’ first menstrual period starting earlier than 8 years old. An ejaculation also occurred earlier than 9 years old. In addition, these children are also relatively taller and heavier than their peers.
Behavioral characteristics
Children with precocious puberty appear to be more mature and independent in behavior than their peers, but they may also have problems such as being erratic, irritable, and inattentive. At the same time, they may also manifest themselves in premature relationships, friendships, or sexual behaviors.
Psychological characteristics
Children with precocious puberty also have some psychological characteristics, such as being more susceptible to external influence, imitating and relying on other people\’s opinions; having large mood swings, unstable personality, and being more prone to inferiority complex and anxiety.
Other aspects
In the process of identifying whether a child has precocious puberty, there are also other aspects that need to be paid attention to. For example, a child may suddenly start to have hobbies that are different from those of his/her peers, being keen on playing in the adult world or dressing up; parents may find some sexually-related items or reading materials in the child\’s drawer.
Summary
If a child has one or more of the above symptoms, he should go to the hospital for examination and consultation in time to diagnose the type and degree of precocious puberty, learn more about the child\’s physical and psychological conditions, and take appropriate intervention and treatment measures. It needs to be emphasized that precocious puberty in children is not a disease or abnormality in the absolute sense. Children and parents should face up to and face this situation in the most suitable way for their children to promote their children\’s healthy growth.
