What are the stages of puberty for girls?
The Tanner stages also outlines the stages of puberty for girls and when they’re likely to occur. There are separate Tanner stages for breasts and pubic hair. The Tanner stages can serve as an excellent guide to the changes you can expect to see in your daughter. There are five stages of puberty for girls. Stage 1 is prepubertal. In this stage, girls haven’t experienced any visible changes. In Stage 2, physical changes begin. Between the ages of 8 and 13, girls typically experience: Their breasts begin to bud, and their areolas (pigmented area around the nipple) enlarge. Scant pubic hair appears. Height increases by about 2¾ inches per year. In Stage 3, physical changes speed up. Between the ages of 9 and 14: Their breasts continue budding. Underarm hair begins to grow, and pubic hair continues to grow. Pubic hair is coarse, curly and in the shape of a triangle. A growth spurt of more than 3 inches per year occurs. Their skin becomes oilier, and acne develops. In Stage 4, puberty hits full stride. Between the ages of 10 and 15: Their breasts continue growing, and their nipples start to protrude. Pubic hair is still in a triangle, and there are now too many hairs to count. Growth may continue at the rate of about 2¾ inches per year. Problems with acne may continue. Periods (menstruation) typically start around age 12 (usually around the same age their mother’s and sisters’ periods began). Some girls, especially those with disordered eating, start later. Stage 5 is the final phase. Development typically ends in this stage. Girls reach physical adulthood. Pubic hair may extend out to their thighs, and some girls may have a line of hair up to their belly button. Most girls attain their peak height by age 16, but some may continue growing through age 20.