Growth & Development / Question
Published: March 12, 2003
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I need your help, from all theses years. I have been asking why am I growing slowly? I'm only 5'4 and I just wanna grow to at least 5'6. I just fell in love with a girl taller than me and I think that she's taller than I am. She won't accept me if I'm too short for her. If you can be able to help me out, I'd gladly thank you...
Signed: Why Am I Growing Slowly?
Dear Why Am I Growing Slowly?,
Your question is a very common one - lots of people write to TeenHealthFX concerned about their height. You did not mention how old you are, so it is difficult for us to guess how much more you will grow. What we can tell you is that if you are still going through puberty, then your body may still be growing. Males go through growth spurts for about 5 - 6 years and can grow as much as 11 inches from the start of puberty until they reach their adult height. Girls go through their growth spurts earlier than boys (which may be why the girl you love is taller than you), often reaching their adult height in their early teens. The height you will grow to be is based on your parents' height, your health status, and your ethnic background. Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do to make yourself grow taller.
To read more about other teens who have similar questions, check out Am I Short Forever?, Pro Player, and Small and Short .
It is our hope that the girl you are interested in will like you based on what kind of person you are, rather than how tall you are. If she truly does not accept you for such a silly reason as your height, we hope you will meet someone else who is interested in you for the things that make you special.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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