Stages of Puberty: A Complete Guide from Pre‑Puberty to Adulthood

Puberty progresses through five Tanner stages:

1. Stage 1 – Pre‑puberty: No physical changes; baseline hormones.
2. Stage 2 – Early puberty: Breast buds (girls); testicular enlargement (boys); sparse pubic hair (both).
3. Stage 3 – Mid‑puberty: Pubic hair thickens; menarche (girls); voice deepens (boys); penile/testicular growth.
4. Stage 4 – Late puberty: Secondary sexual characteristics near adult; acne may appear; growth spurt; periods regularize.
5. Stage 5 – Post‑puberty: Adult stature and reproductive maturity reached.

Timing varies widely; early/late onset within normal range is common.