Yes, little boys do produce testosterone, although the levels change significantly throughout their development.
Here's a breakdown of testosterone production in young males:
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Infancy (Approximately 1-3 months): Baby boys experience a surge in testosterone production shortly after birth. This surge is of gonadal origin and reaches pubertal concentrations. This period is sometimes referred to as "mini-puberty".
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Infancy (Approximately 6 months onwards): Testosterone levels then decline to prepubertal values around 6 months of age and remain low until puberty.
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Childhood (Prepubertal): Throughout childhood, testosterone production remains at a low level until the onset of puberty.
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Puberty: As boys enter puberty, testosterone production increases significantly, leading to the development of secondary sexual characteristics.
| Age Range | Testosterone Levels |
|---|---|
| Infant (1-3 Months) | Increased to pubertal concentrations |
| Infant (6+ Months) | Decreases to prepubertal concentrations |
| Childhood | Low, prepubertal levels |
| Puberty | Significant increase, leading to sexual development |
In summary, while little boys produce testosterone, the levels fluctuate dramatically, with a surge in infancy followed by a period of low production until puberty.
