Early puberty is for real: How to help our children

India Today

16-07-2025

Precocious puberty refers to the early development of puberty and secondary sexual features in children before age eight for girls and boys before age nine. While the average age for menarche (first menstruation) in India used to be around 14-16 years, it has now dropped to around 12 years, and some girls are showing signs of puberty as early as age seven. Dr Atique Ahmed, newborn and child specialist, Saifee Hospital, Mumbai, explains why more such cases are being noticed.A growing concern: Children with precocious puberty may suffer both the physical and emotional impact. In the short term, they will likely be taller than their peers, but the long-term consequence of closing the growth plates too soon is shorter stature. From a psychological perspective, the hurdles can be equally profound. Children who are developing ahead of their same-age peers can experience embarrassment, anxiety and depression. The mismatched social-emotional and physical developments can manifest as behavioural problems, such as an increased risk for substance use or conduct problems.advertisementIsolation and screen-time probable causes? A noticeable rise in cases of central precocious puberty (CPP) has been observed, especially following the Covid-19 pandemic. During the outbreak, all schools remained shut across India and children under 18 were forced to spend extended periods confined at home. This prolonged isolation have coincided with a significant spike in the cases.Though one cannot attribute a particular reason for its increase, several factors are being investigated. One prominent theory suggests that increased exposure to digital screens may be contributing. Research found that children's screen-time surged by approximately 2.5 times during the pandemic. It is believed that prolonged engagement with electronic devices—ranging from televisions to tablets—might be a contributing factor in the increasing incidence of CPP.
Nutritional deficiency: Other lifestyle changes during the Covid lockdown may have added to the increase. Many children experienced a marked decline in physical activity and spent more time indoors, which contributed to widespread deficiency of Vitamin D. Dietary habits also shifted significantly during this time, with eating becoming a source of entertainment. A number of authors referenced ongoing increases in consumption of sweet snacks, high-calorie processed products, and pre-packaged foods. This may have contribute to a rise in childhood obesity, which resulted in the advancement of puberty in children, especially among girls.Sleep changes: Sleep changes were reported during lockdowns, such as reduced time for sleeping and poorer quality of sleep among children. In one clinical opinion, psychological changes, technology influences or a combination of these things might have resulted in changes that led to early onset of puberty. However, we need to await clear evidence for definitive conclusions.Biological effects of Covid-19: Some researchers are exploring whether the SARS-CoV-2 virus could have directly affected neurological pathways involved in puberty through inflammation of the olfactory bulb, disruption of the blood-brain barrier or widespread inflammatory responses like cytokine storms. However, this connection remains under investigation.Managing early puberty: Despite some early cases being unpreventable, parents can find actionable strategies to reduce risk and help their children cope with precocious puberty. Encouraging healthy practices is most important, such as making nutritious foods available; regular, purposeful activity; reduced screen-time; and improving sleep. Limiting exposure to hormone-disrupting chemicals and providing an environment that promotes open communication can help empower children as they navigate the changes.Subscribe to India Today Magazine- Ends