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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