What Hormone Initiates Puberty? Understanding GnRH's Role

Discover how Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) starts puberty by triggering key hormones for development.

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Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) triggers the start of puberty by stimulating the pituitary gland to release two other hormones: luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). These hormones then prompt the development of secondary sexual characteristics and reproductive capability.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)? GnRH is a hormone that triggers puberty by signaling the pituitary gland to release other hormones essential for sexual maturation.
  2. What hormones are released during puberty? During puberty, key hormones such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) are released, leading to sexual development.
  3. At what age does puberty typically begin? Puberty usually begins between ages 9 and 14 for girls and 10 and 15 for boys, but this can vary widely.
  4. What are secondary sexual characteristics? Secondary sexual characteristics are features that develop during puberty, such as breast development in females and facial hair in males.