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Back| Breasts | Pubic Hair | |
|---|---|---|
| I (Prepubertal) | Only the nipple is elevated | None |
| II | Breast and nipple elevated, diameter of the areola increased Average Age: 9.8 years |
Long, sparse, dark hair, distributed over the labia Average Age: 10.5 years |
| III | Breast and areola continue to enlarge without separation Average Age: 11.2 years |
Thickened, curly, darker hair appears on the mons pubis Average Age: 11.4 years |
| IV | Areola and nipple further elevated above the breast surface Average Age: 12.1 years |
Adult-type hair, dense, but limited to the mons pubis Average Age: 12 years |
| V | Areola recedes and is continuous with the breast contour Average Age: 14.6 years |
Adult-type hair and distribution Average Age: 13.7 years |
Explanation
Puberty is the period during which secondary sexual characteristics begin to develop and the capacity for reproduction is attained. In females, breast development occurs first, followed by the appearance of pubic and axillary hair. Menarche usually occurs later than the onset of secondary sexual characteristics, at which point fertility is present.
