When we think of puberty, our minds go to adolescence—the period between the ages of 8 and 14, when the body undergoes major changes toward maturity. But the physical changes don't stop there. Throughout our 20s, 30s, and 40s, the body continues to transform, going through what is often called "second puberty."
Despite the name, it's not really puberty. "Second puberty" is an informal term that describes the natural changes in the body during adulthood. But what exactly happens during this period?
When does "second puberty" occur?
There is no medical definition for “second puberty,” but the term is commonly used to describe the bodily changes that occur in your 20s, 30s, and 40s. Some people use the term to describe:
• Changes during a particular decade, such as the 30s
• The transition from one decade to another, such as from the 20s to the 30s
What happens to men during "second puberty"?
In the 20s
• Peak bone mass: Reaches the highest level of bone mass you will have in your lifetime.
• Maximum muscle mass: Muscles reach maximum strength and volume.
• Slowing prostate growth: During adolescence, the prostate grows rapidly, but after the age of 20, this growth slows down.
In the 30s
• Testosterone decline: The level of this hormone begins to decrease, but without visible changes in the body.
• Decrease in bone and muscle mass: Bones and muscles begin to lose mass, albeit slightly.
• Skin changes : Wrinkles and small spots may appear.
• Gray hair: After your mid-30s, gray hair becomes more noticeable.
In the 40s
• Fat redistribution: Fat accumulates mainly in the abdomen and chest.
• Decrease in length: The disc between the vertebrae begins to shrink, causing a slight loss of length.
• Prostate enlargement: Another enlargement of the prostate can cause difficulty urinating.
• Erectile dysfunction: With decreased testosterone, there may be difficulty maintaining an erection.
What happens to women during "second puberty"?
In the 20s
• Maximum bone and muscle mass: In both men and women, this is the moment when bones and muscles are strongest.
• Regular menstrual cycle: Estrogen levels peak in the mid- to late 20s, making the cycle more predictable.
In the 30s
• Perimenopause: The body begins to prepare for menopause, usually after the mid-30s.
• Skin changes: Decreased collagen production leads to wrinkles and sagging skin.
• More irregular menstrual periods: By the end of your 30s, your menstrual cycle becomes less regular.
• Vaginal dryness: You may notice changes in the natural lubrication of the vagina.
• Hot flashes: Sudden hot flashes can appear as an early sign of menopause.
In the 40s
• Faster loss of bone mass: After menopause, the risk of osteoporosis increases.
• Decrease in height: In both men and women, height can decrease by 1-2 cm.
• Weight gain: The body changes the way it uses energy, favoring weight gain.
• Irregular menstrual cycle or absence of menstruation: From the late 40s, the menstrual cycle becomes less frequent and usually stops completely in the 50s.
Can "second puberty" be stopped?
The changes that come with age cannot be completely stopped, but they can be better managed with a healthy lifestyle.
How to prepare for "second puberty"?
Although you can't avoid aging, you can prepare for it in the right way.
Here are some steps you can follow:
• Stay active: Regular exercise helps slow the loss of muscle and bone mass. Combine cardiovascular exercise with muscle strengthening.
• Eat healthy: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps the body age better.
• Manage chronic diseases: If you have health problems, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, proper care can help maintain a good quality of life.
• Get regular medical checkups: Visits to your general practitioner, gynecologist, or other specialists help in the early identification and treatment of health problems.
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