Sometimes in late adolescence, most of us go through puberty. However, Marla Ahlgrimm says that there are some young women who fail to physically mature.
The term “absent puberty” refers to a condition where the physical changes associated with puberty, including breast development, menstruation, and pubic hair formation, don’t begin naturally. Marla Ahlgrimm says there are many reasons this might happen. This includes hormonal imbalances, genetic disorders, chronic illnesses, and certain medications.
What Happens If a Woman Does Not Go Through Puberty?
If a woman does not go through puberty, Marla Ahlgrimm says it has several significant physical and psychological consequences.
Physically, without puberty, a woman won’t experience typical changes, such as breast development or widening of the hips. She likely also won’t grow underarm or pubic hair. Marla Ahlgrimm also notes that absent puberty also means a lack of menstruation, which is a key reproductive function. This, sadly, can lead to infertility. Marla Ahlgrimm says that women who don’t go through puberty will be unable to conceive naturally.
Marla Ahlgrimm also notes that puberty is crucial for bone growth and development. Without physical maturity, a woman may have a shorter stature and weaker bones.
From a psychological standpoint, the lack of physical changes associated with puberty can lead to body image issues. Marla Ahlgrimm says that smaller breasts and a less feminine physique can also lead women to feeling inadequate physically when compared to their same-age peers. Social difficulties and emotional distress are also common in women who don’t go through puberty. Marla Ahlgrimm says not fitting the physical development mold of other girls can lead to social isolation and difficulty forming meaningful relationships.
What Causes Absent Puberty?
As previously mentioned, there are several reasons that a woman may not achieve puberty. Marla Ahlgrimm says the first is a hormonal imbalance. Issues with the hypothalamus, ovaries, or pituitary gland can interfere with the signals that trigger puberty. There are also a few, albeit rare, genetic disorders that can delay or halt puberty. These include Turner syndrome, Klinefelter syndrome, and Kallmann syndrome.
Marla Ahlgrimm says that medications for chemotherapy and also malnutrition can disrupt hormone balance and delay puberty.
If you or someone you know is experiencing delayed or absent puberty, Marla Ahlgrimm says that it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. In many cases, Marla Ahlgrimm says that early diagnosis and intervention treatments can help and ensure normal physical and emotional development.
Marla Ahlgrimm has co-authored two ground-breaking books,