If you’re a parent noticing changes in your child or a young person curious about your own development, you might be wondering about the signs of puberty. One common question that comes up is about body hair, specifically in the underarm area. Where does armpit hair fit into the bigger picture of growing up?
The system doctors use to track this progression is called the Tanner Stages, also known as Sexual Maturity Ratings. It’s a helpful guide that breaks down the complex journey of puberty into clearer, more manageable steps.
Where Armpit Hair Fits in the Tanner Stages
Yes, armpit hair is absolutely included in the Tanner Stages, but it’s important to know it doesn’t appear right at the beginning. The Tanner Stages track development for both boys and girls, looking at two primary areas: genital development and pubic hair growth. Armpit hair is considered a secondary event that happens later in the sequence.
For both sexes, the appearance of underarm hair typically comes after pubic hair is already established. It generally shows up around Tanner Stage 3 or, more commonly, in Tanner Stage 4. This means a young person’s body is already well into the process of maturation by the time armpit hair becomes noticeable.
The Bigger Picture of Pubertal Development
Focusing only on one sign, like armpit hair, can give an incomplete picture. The Tanner Stages are valuable because they look at the whole body. For girls, this means also paying attention to breast development and the eventual start of menstruation. For boys, it involves tracking the growth of the testicles and penis, as well as voice deepening.
Armpit hair is just one piece of this puzzle. Its arrival signals that the hormonal changes of puberty are in full swing, but it’s not the starting pistol. It’s a normal and expected part of the journey, confirming that development is progressing.
Embracing Your Unique Timeline
It’s completely normal to compare yourself to friends or classmates, but puberty has its own schedule for everyone. One person might get armpit hair early in the process, while another might not see it until much later. This variation is typical and is rarely a cause for concern.
The most important thing to remember is that these changes are a natural part of growing up. If you or a parent have specific concerns about the timing or progression of puberty, having a conversation with a pediatrician or healthcare provider is always the best step. They can offer reassurance and guidance tailored to an individual’s unique path.