Patient's question:
At the age of only 11, is this breast development too early? I'm a bit worried it might be an abnormal condition. However, other tests have come back normal, except for the development of breast buds. What is the normal age for this development?Doctor's answer:
Generally, females begin to experience sexual development between the ages of 11-13. The initial signs of sexual development include widening of the pelvis, increased subcutaneous fat in the buttocks and thighs, followed by breast development, and finally the appearance of pubic hair and menarche. Due to improved living standards and sufficient, even excessive, nutrition, many children are developing earlier. However, this advancement should not be excessive. If signs of puberty appear before the age of 8, it is considered precocious puberty. In your child's case, the development seems somewhat premature. It is recommended to visit the endocrinology department of a hospital for hormone level tests and bone age assessments. Based on the results, it can be determined whether intervention is necessary.