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This lesson covers the role of hormones in puberty and the menstrual cycle. Understanding how reproductive hormones interact is a key part of the AQA GCSE Biology specification. This links closely to the next lesson on contraception and fertility treatments.
Puberty is the stage of development when the body becomes sexually mature and capable of reproduction. It is triggered by hormones released from the pituitary gland, which stimulate the reproductive organs to produce sex hormones.
The pituitary gland releases hormones that stimulate the testes to produce testosterone.
| Change | Description |
|---|---|
| Growth of testes and penis | Reproductive organs enlarge |
| Pubic and body hair growth | Hair grows in the armpits, face, chest, and pubic region |
| Voice deepens | Larynx (voice box) grows, causing the voice to "break" |
| Muscle development | Increased muscle mass and strength |
| Growth spurt | Rapid increase in height |
| Sperm production begins | Testes start producing sperm cells |
| Body odour changes | Increased sweat gland activity |
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