Puberteen: Male Puberty
observed & illustrated by Brad Albright

   Puberty marks the transition into adulthood. For males, it is a time of particular excitement and sexual maturing, as their bodies prepare for reproduction.

   Male Puberty typically starts later than it does for females. Males should expect to see changes occurring in their body as a teenager, between the ages of 11 and 17. Hair should appear under the arms, on the legs and face, and above the penis. Chest hair may appear during puberty or years after, although not all men have chest hair. Some men shave the hair on their faces.

   Arms, legs, hands, and feet may grow faster than the rest of the body, which may seem awkward, but the body will eventually become proportionate.

   The flow of epidermal oils will increase along with growing glands. Shifting hormone levels and increasingly oily skin can cause acne and unpleasant body odor.

   The voice will get deeper and sometimes crack with lengthening vocal chords.

   The penis and testes will become larger. Erections may occur more frequently, and often randomly, due to an increase in testosterone. This may be embarrassing. However, most people will not notice unless attention is drawn to it. Many boys become concerned about the size of their penis, and may compare with that of their friends.

   As the testes (gonads) begin producing millions of sperm, nocturnal emissions may occur, involving the ejaculation of semen during sleep.

   Males will become increasingly occupied with the impulse to reproduce. Interest will develop in masturbation, petting, intercourse, and relationships.

   Despite the awkward moments that indefinitely come with puberty, it is a phase which opens a world of new experiences and opportunities.