During puberty, the male penis goes through a number of changes as a result of increased levels of hormones, particularly testosterone. The first sign of puberty in boys is usually the development of testicular and pubic hair, followed by the growth of the penis and testicles.
The rate of penile growth during puberty can vary significantly from one individual to another. On average, the penis will grow to its full size by the age of 18. However, some boys may experience more rapid growth, while others may have a slower rate of growth.
Stages of penis growth
The stages of penile growth during puberty include:
- Pre-puberty: Before puberty, the penis is relatively small and does not grow much in size.
- Early puberty: During the early stages of puberty, the testicles begin to grow and the penis begins to lengthen. The scrotum also begins to thin and redden.
- Mid-puberty: In the mid-puberty stage, the penis continues to grow and the testicles continue to enlarge. The scrotum also becomes more pigmented.
- Late puberty: During the late stage of puberty, the penis reaches its full size and the testicles continue to grow.
Problems encountered during puberty
There are a few problems that can occur during puberty that may affect the development of the penis. One such problem is micropenis, which is a condition in which the penis is significantly smaller than the average size for an adult male. Micropenis can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal imbalances, genetic abnormalities, and certain medical conditions.
Testosterone treatment during puberty may be helpful in increasing the size of the penis in individuals with micropenis. Testosterone therapy works by stimulating the growth of the penis and testicles, and it is typically most effective if it is started at an early age, before the onset of puberty. However, testosterone therapy is not always effective, and the long-term risks and benefits of this treatment are not fully understood. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment option.