Late bloomer

9 answers /

Last post: 28/01/2024 at 10:09 pm

OLIVIA H(142)
Olivia H(142)
25/01/2024 at 11:53 pm

My son turned 14 a few months ago but has still yet to show any signs of starting puberty.. I told him that he's probably just a late bloomer but he's embarrassed about it (especially cause his friends have already started) and said he wants to go to the doctor to get checked if he's "normal".. does anybody else have any experience with their sons starting puberty later? Any advice you think I can give him to help ease his concerns or is it actually worth a visit to the doc to make sure everything is progressing okay (just slowly)? He's perfectly healthy otherwise but I don't want him worrying 😔

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CAROL F(195)
Carol F(195)
27/01/2024 at 9:26 am

What in particular is he embarrassed about?

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OLIVIA H(142)
Olivia H(142)
27/01/2024 at 8:30 pm
In answer to
Carol F(195)

What in particular is he embarrassed about?

Well, puberty hasn't really begun for him yet while all his friends have started 'developing' in different ways.. so his lack of progress has him embarrassed. Hope that makes sense?

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CAROL F(195)
Carol F(195)
27/01/2024 at 8:51 pm
In answer to
Olivia H(142)

Well, puberty hasn't really begun for him yet while all his friends have started 'developing' in different ways.. so his lack of progress has him embarrassed. Hope that makes sense?

It does thanks


I think at 14 it is still somewhat young for a boy and he could start developing at a later date. but not 100% sure on that. I’d continue an open communication with him, and if nothing changes maybe go to the GP (or go now if it’ll put his mind more at ease)

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OLIVIA H(142)
Olivia H(142)
27/01/2024 at 9:58 pm
In answer to
Carol F(195)

It does thanks


I think at 14 it is still somewhat young for a boy and he could start developing at a later date. but not 100% sure on that. I’d continue an open communication with him, and if nothing changes maybe go to the GP (or go now if it’ll put his mind more at ease)

That's some good advice, thanks - might give it a bit longer and just keep communication open as you said, the doctor will still be there in a few months if nothing's still happening x

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KATIE B(1630)
Katie B(1630)
28/01/2024 at 6:54 pm

I was the same but as a female - at 14 I had no boobs , no periods etc ,felt really embarrassed as all the other girls had bras and seemed so much more mature. My mother was not the type to talk about anything like that so felt alone and sad . I just think your son is very lucky to have a mum like you who is open and approachable and willing to get him medically checked over. As others have advised keep that communication going so he knows he’s got someone on his side and without embarrassment can talk about his worries. Hope it all sorts itself out . ( I eventually bloomed and had 2 children , there was nothing wrong I was just a late developer) x

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LUCY N(253)
Lucy N(253)
28/01/2024 at 7:44 pm

Boys tend to start puberty later than girls.


I've a 14 year old, and he's not there yet. No deepening of his voice. Body hair I wouldn't notice anyway...he hasn't been topless since the summer. Slight shadow above his lip but nothing much.


A few of his friends have hit puberty, they have the deep voices....sounds like men in my house.


I don't think it's a concer at 14, everyone develops at a different pace.

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PARENT SUPPORTER CATHERINE
Parent Supporter Catherine
28/01/2024 at 9:18 pm

Hi Olivia


I'm Catherine, one of the Parent Supporters here at Netmums. Thanks for reaching you. Your 14year old is worrying he isn't 'normal' but as you have already reassured him, puberty is different for everyone. You are wondering about a GP apt for him. Do you think it would help to put his mind at rest? Would he find it easier (or less embarrassing) to chat to a GP? In the meantime, you could signpost him to some online information and supports such as Childline: Puberty and your body | Childline


Best wishes


Catherine

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KAM J(3)
Kam J(3)
28/01/2024 at 10:09 pm

My son didn't start puberty until he left school (nearly 16) that year 16th-17th he reached it all at once....


When he started secondary he was in 8yr old trousers and on leaving looked about 12, by 17 he looked his age..


Now he's a 5.10 muscular man x

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