When should breast development be referred for assessment?

Breast development in girls typically begins between ages 8 and 13, coinciding with the onset of puberty. An assessment should be considered if development falls outside the expected range, specifically if it begins before age 7 or if it has not started by age 13.

Referral for evaluation is crucial if development occurs at an unusually early age, such as before age 7, due to potential hormonal imbalances or underlying health concerns. Similarly, if there is no sign of breast development by age 13, it could indicate delayed puberty, which may warrant further investigation.

This guideline helps ensure that any potential issues are identified and addressed early on, promoting proper growth and health outcomes. In contrast, breast development occurring at age 10 may still fall within the normal range, and waiting until after age 15 to assess would likely be too late to address any underlying conditions effectively.