I'm 16 But My Penis Hasn't Fully Matured

Published: July 06, 2017
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I'm 16 and my balls haven't dropped and my penis isn't fully matured. Is this a problem and is there any solution?
Signed: I'm 16 But My Penis Hasn't Fully Matured

Dear I'm 16 But My Penis Hasn't Fully Matured,

TeenHealthFX appreciates your concern for your health. According to KidsHealth, “most boys begin puberty between the ages of 9 and 14.” However, FX reminds you that every boy grows at his own pace, and thus, you may experience puberty during a different age than your peers.

Signs of male puberty include, yet are not limited to:

  • Growth/increase in height
  • Facial bone definition
  • Muscle definition
  • Voice change (becomes deeper)
  • Chest, facial underarm & hair growth
  • Penis/testicle growth
  • Pubic hair development
  • More frequent erections
  • Changes in emotions due to fluctuating hormones

 

Penis/testicle growth is a stage of puberty that every male will undergo. As this growth occurs (generally over a two year period), the scrotum will develop hair, darken in color and begin to hang down lower. Testicles generally begin to grow between the ages of 10 to 13.

Although every boy begins puberty at a different age, it is possible that you may be experiencing delayed puberty. There are various possible causes of delayed puberty. FX suggests meeting with your doctor so he/she can assess your hormones, and refer you to specialist if necessary. 

If you don't have a doctor and live in northern New Jersey, you can call the Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973-971-5199 for an appointment with an adolescent medicine specialist or contact your local teen health center or Planned Parenthood. You can also contact your insurance company for a list of in-network providers.

Signed: TeenHealthFX

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