Puberty

Apart from the vagina and penis, there is outwardly very little difference between the sexes before the onset of puberty and the functions of movement, manipulation and social behaviour are identical given the same environment.

Puberty is when all of the differences develop, in males at around the age of 12 the production and release of testosterone into the bloodstream causes marked changes in growth rate leading to a general taller statue than females, behavioural and physical evidence of manhood, facial beard growth, breaking of the voice, lowering of testicles etc.

Girls start puberty earlier at about 10 years of age when the release of the primary female oestrogen (known as estrogen in the USA) triggers the growth process of breasts, pubic hair and the distinctive hourglass figure.

Full development including height, is usually completed by the age of 16 by which time ovulation and menstruation commences rendering her fully fertile.

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