Myths and variations in normal pubertal development.

Myths about puberty are common. These misconceptions create needless anxiety, for example, in parents who confuse the isolated development of pubic hair or breasts with true sexual maturation. Even healthcare providers are not immune: some may be unaware of recent data suggesting that in healthy girls puberty may begin earlier than the textbook age of 8 years and others may mistakenly inform parents that only a couple of inches of growth remain for their 10-year-old daughter who has started menstruating. This article discusses common myths that surround the normal variations in pubertal development.