Question
My daughter has breast development, a white discharge from the genitals, normal appetite, and good spirits. There have been no significant changes in height, weight, urination, defecation, or sleep. Recently, I noticed her breasts slightly protruding and a hard lump on the left chest, which is painful when touched. Her body has been growing faster recently, and the doctor said it might be early puberty. I am very worried.
Answer
It is generally believed that girls who develop breasts before the age of 8 and have their first menstrual period before 10 are considered to have early puberty. Boys who show secondary sexual characteristics and rapid physical growth before the age of 9 are also classified as having early puberty. Medications used to treat childhood early puberty can lead to other consequences, such as progestin derivatives that can repeatedly inhibit the pituitary gland from producing sex hormones, which can delay the onset of menstruation but have little effect on delaying skeletal growth and development. It is best to avoid giving children hormone-rich foods and snacks in daily life, as these are important factors contributing to early puberty.