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Puberty and Tanner Stages
Pubertal Development
Puberty is divided into five stages, called Tanner Stages (numbered
1-5). Each stage represents the extent of breast and pubic hair growth.
Female puberty begins at about age 11, but can range from about
ages 9 to 13. It can be difficult to explain the differences between the
different stages because there are not quantifiable differences-the
process is a very qualitative one. Rough estimates based upon the
size and shape of the breasts along with the amount and type of hair
present in the pubic area are the indexes used to track pubertal
changes.
Tanner Stages
Usually, breast budding is the first sign of puberty, followed by pubic
hair growth and a growth spurt. Tanner Stage 1 is pre-pubertal. Tanner
Stage 2 is characterized by small breast buds and "peach-fuzz" in the
pubic area, and its average age is 11-12. During Stage 3, breast buds
become larger and pubic hair growth continues, but it is mostly in the
center and does not extend out to the thighs or upward. At about age
13 or 14, Stage 4 will occur, which includes noticeable growth of pubic
hair, now in the triangular shape of adulthood. Underarm hair growth is
noticeable, and breasts will now begin to take on a "mound" form. The
first menstrual period usually occurs sometime during the fourth or fifth
stage, usually at around 12 or 13 years. A girl has reached Tanner
Stage 5 when her breasts are fully formed and her pubic hair is adult in
quantity and type, forming the classical upside-down triangle shape
common to women.
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