Puberty Disorder Specialist
Pediatric Endocrinology of NY
Chhavi Agarwal, MD
Pediatric Endocrinologist located in Scarsdale, NY
Puberty is challenging enough on its own, but for children and adolescents with puberty disorders, whether precocious or delayed, the experience can be fraught with difficulty, and in some cases indicate an underlying health issue. Dr. Chhavi Agarwal of Pediatric Endocrinology of New York, with locations in Scarsdale and Flushing, New York, offers expert diagnosis and treatment for puberty disorders.
Puberty Disorder Q & A
What is precocious puberty?
In girls, precocious puberty is defined as beginning breast development at an age younger than 8 years old, followed 2-3 years later by starting to menstruate. In boys, precocious puberty occurs when penile and testicular enlargement begin younger than age 9, followed by muscular development, body hair, a growth spurt and deepening of the voice. Most of the time, for both girls and boys, precocious puberty is not a medical problem but simply the result of an accelerated developmental timetable. However, if the culprit is an underlying medical or health issue, it’s generally an abnormality in the pituitary gland or exposure to creams or medications that contain the hormones estrogen or androgen.
What is delayed puberty?
Both boys and girls can have delayed puberty. For girls, this is defined as not having started breast development by age 13. For boys, puberty is considered delayed if their testicles have not become enlarged, followed by growth of the penis and pubic hair by age 14.
What are the common causes of delayed puberty?
Usually, delayed puberty is not a health concern, and merely the result of genetics. Usually, adolescents who are late bloomers, have one or both parents who were as well. These children eventually catch up with their peers. In some cases, however, delayed puberty is an indication of an underlying health or medical issues. In girls, that’s typically, either:
Too little body fat. This is often seen in athletic girls, especially those who are gymnasts and ballet dancers.
- The ovaries aren’t developing properly or have been damaged.
- A lack of certain pituitary gland hormones.
For boys, medical issues that can cause delayed puberty, include:
- A deficiency of puberty hormones.
- A problem with the testicles, which is most often attributed to a previous surgery for undescended testicles, or cancer treatments.
How are puberty disorders diagnosed?
In addition to a physical examination, certain tests may be performed, such as a blood test to evaluate hormone levels. Also, an x-ray of the left hand and wrist may be ordered. Referred to as a bone age test, this imaging offers a better indication as to how far along puberty has progressed, and at what rate.
Our Insurance Policy
We accept most insurance plans, please contact our office to discuss the particulars of your benefit package and our current network participation status. We will work with you and your carrier to provide you the best care.