I am 20, but have no hair in the armpits

Mar 09, 2008

THE growth of hair in the armpits and a beard is a secondary sexual characteristic. The hair starts growing during puberty, when the testes start producing the sex hormones. This depends on one’s genes and race. For some people, the hair grows earlier.

Dear Doctor,
I am nearly 20-years-old, but I have no hair in my armpits. I also have no beards, yet men get them at 16. Do I have a problem with my hormones? What can I do?
Denis

Dear Denis,
THE growth of hair in the armpits and a beard is a secondary sexual characteristic. The hair starts growing during puberty, when the testes start producing the sex hormones. This depends on one’s genes and race. For some people, the hair grows earlier.

It develops at a different rate for different people. Sex hormones are not associated with hair alone. They also affect increase in the size of the penis, breaking of the voice, muscle development, production of sperms, ability to erect and to ejaculate and sexual desire.

Are you experiencing these cannges? If you are, then you may have to wait a little longer. The hair will grow. If not, see a doctor.

Dr. Paul Semugoma, semugoma@hotmail.com

Write to Ask The Doctor, P. O. Box 9815, Kampala
or health@newvision.co.ug

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