Puberty typically occurs at different ages for boys and girls, but regardless of gender, the growth of pubic hair is one of the characteristics of the onset of puberty. Puberty begins when the part of the brain called the hypothalamus stimulates the pituitary gland, according to Merck Manuals. The changes in the pituitary gland trigger other glandular changes. The changes in these glands, stage one of puberty, may start to occur a year before any of the visible results are noticeable. Puberty brings on growth of hair that wasn't present earlier.
Puberty Stages for Girls
According to the AARP, there are five puberty stages for both boys and girls. For girls, stage two of puberty begins between the ages of eight and 14, and it is during stage two that the first appearance of pubic hair occurs. The initial growth of pubic hair could be fine and straight or course and curly. During stage three of puberty for girls, which occurs between ages 9 and 15, pubic hair gets darker and courser. Pubic hair obtains more of an adult triangular pattern during stage four of puberty for girls, which occurs between ages 10 and 16. During stage five of puberty, pubic hair is filled in. This occurs between ages 12 and 19.
Puberty Stages for Boys
During stage two of puberty for boys, which occurs between ages 9 and 15, a small amount of pubic hair may appear. During stage three, between ages 11 and 16, pubic hair gets darker and courser and spreads to where the torso meets the legs. Also, facial hair begins to develop on the upper lip. During stage four of puberty for boys, between ages 11 and 17, hair may begin to grow on the anus. Facial hair and hair under the arm increases. In stage five of puberty for boys, between ages 14 and 18, pubic hair reaches adult growth and facial hair grows enough to shave.
Premature Adrenarche
Premature adrenarche is a condition that is characterized by early maturation of the adrenal gland. This can occur before the age of 8 in girls and 9 in boys. It brings on the growth of pubic hair and hair in the armpits.
Factors for Puberty Onset and Hair Growth
The onset of puberty and the accompanying changes in hair growth are affected by a variety of factors, including heredity, body mass, nutrition and general health.
Average Puberty Onset
The beginning of breast development in girls, during stage two of puberty, occurs at the average age of 10.5. For boys, the onset of testicle enlargement, which occurs during stage two of puberty, is at the average age of 11.5.
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