Puberty is the time when the body changes from that of a child to that of an adult due to hormonal surge. In boys, it usually starts with a height spurt at around 10-16 years of age. The boys tend to grow out of clothes & shoes faster. Arms, legs, hands & feet grow at an increased rate as compared to the rest of the body. Hence, adolescent boys appear to be lanky and clumsy till they start putting on weight later during puberty. Many boys may experience swelling below the nipples. However, it is nothing to worry about as it is common among boys in that age and is a temporary condition called gynaecomastia. However, if it is troublesome, consult your pediatrician.

Muscular development is also a part of puberty and shoulders start to get broader. The voice starts cracking and later becomes deeper late puberty.

Hair appears under the arms, legs, face and above the penis. Some boys may develop chest hair. The skin becomes more oily due to increased secretion from the glands, some boys may get pimples(acne). These can be controlled and for more information consult your pediatrician.

The penis and testes will get bigger and erection may occur. Erections occur when penis becomes stiff and hard. Do not feel embarrassed and remember that most people will not even notice the erection unless attention is drawn to it. Some children may experience ejaculation i.e. release of semen (made of sperm and other fluids) through the penis during sleep causing wet pyjamas and bed sheets. That is normal and stops as the boy gets older and is called nocturnal emission.

Don't worry, the hormones will balance out once the teen will become an adult.

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Last updated on 6-11-2000