Question
I have a daughter who is now 11 years old, and she is developing normally in all aspects. Recently, while bathing, I noticed that her breasts have begun to swell. Could she be entering puberty soon? What is the sequence of girls’ puberty development?
Answer
If there is an increase in breast size, it may indicate the beginning of the development of secondary sexual characteristics. Generally, hair growth in the pubic and armpit areas, breast enlargement, an increase in vaginal discharge, and irregular menstrual periods may follow. During this stage, it is important to pay attention to a diverse diet and avoid excessive nutrition that could lead to precocious puberty. It is advisable to limit the intake of greasy and sugary foods to prevent excessive obesity. The typical sequence of girls’ puberty development is usually breast development, followed by the growth of pubic hair, the development of external genitalia, and finally the onset of menstruation. Generally speaking, if there are concerns about precocious puberty before the age of 8, the entire gonadal system is usually activated around the age of 12.