What are the stages of puberty for boys?
A tool called the Tanner stages outlines the stages of puberty for boys and when they’re likely to occur. There are separate Tanner stages for penis/testicles and pubic hair. For parents, the Tanner stages can serve as an excellent guide to the changes you can expect to see in your son. There are five stages of puberty for boys. Stage 1 is prepubertal. In this stage, boys haven’t experienced any visible changes. In Stage 2, physical changes begin. Between the ages of 9 and 14, boys typically begin to experience: Genital development (growth of their testicles and scrotum). Growth of sparse hair around their penis and under their arms. An increase in height (typically about 2 to 2½ inches per year), which could bring growing pains. In Stage 3, physical changes speed up. Between the ages of 10 and 16, boys experience: Continued growth of their penis and testicles, as well as possible “wet dreams.” Wet dreams are ejaculation at night while they sleep. Darkening, coarsening pubic hair in the shape of a triangle in their genital area. Continued increase in height (about 2¾ to just over 3 inches per year). More sweating, which can lead to body odor. Vocal changes (and cracking in the process). Increased muscle mass. Some breast development, or gynecomastia, occurs in about 50% of all teenage boys, but it typically resolves by the end of puberty. It’s most common between the ages of 11 and 15. If this becomes an issue physically or socially, you should talk with your child’s healthcare provider. In Stage 4, puberty hits full stride. Between the ages of 11 and 16 years, boys experience: Growth in penis size and darkening of the skin on their scrotum and testicles. Red ridges on their testicles called rugae will begin to develop. Body hair growth that reaches adult levels. Pubic hair remains in a coarse triangle. A peak growth spurt that averages nearly 4 inches per year. Development of acne. Continued cracking of the voice. Stage 5 is the final phase. Puberty ends in this stage. Boys finish their growth and physical development. Many may not develop facial hair until this step in the process. Pubic hair may extend out to their thighs, and some boys may have a line of hair up to their belly button. Most boys finish growing by age 17, but some may continue growing through their early 20s.