It is statistically unlikely that you will begin puberty at 17 if you haven't already started. However, experiencing later stages of puberty at 17 is entirely possible and normal.
Here's a breakdown:
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Typical Puberty Onset: Puberty usually starts between the ages of 8 and 14 for girls, and 9 and 15 for boys.
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Late Bloomers: While less common, some individuals do start puberty later than the average range. Medical conditions or genetic factors can sometimes delay puberty.
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What "hitting puberty" might mean at 17: At 17, if you haven't experienced any pubertal changes, it's worth consulting a doctor. However, it’s more likely you're asking if you will continue to develop physically and sexually. The answer to this is generally yes. While the initial stages of puberty would typically have passed, you can expect continued physical and hormonal development well into your late teens and early twenties. This includes things like:
- Further muscle development (in males)
- Changes in body shape
- Continued breast development (in females)
- Facial hair growth (in males)
- Deeper voice (in males)
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When to Seek Medical Advice: If you are 17 and have not experienced any signs of puberty (e.g., no breast development in females, no testicular enlargement in males, no pubic hair), it's a good idea to consult a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
In summary, starting puberty at 17 is less likely, but experiencing continued pubertal changes at 17 is very normal. If you have concerns, consult a doctor.
