Reaching the Age of Adolescence

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to adolescence, puberty, hormonal changes, and reproductive health as discussed in the lecture.

Adolescence

The period of life when the body undergoes changes leading to reproductive maturity, typically occurring between ages 11 and 19.

Puberty

The phase in life when individuals become capable of reproduction, marked by physical changes such as growth spurts and development of secondary sexual characteristics.

Endocrine glands

Glands that release hormones directly into the bloodstream; they are responsible for regulating various body functions.

Hormones

Chemical substances secreted by endocrine glands that regulate physiological functions and changes in the body.

Testosterone

The male hormone produced by the testes that promotes the development of male secondary sexual characteristics.

Estrogen

The female hormone produced by the ovaries that promotes the development of female secondary sexual characteristics.

Menstruation

The monthly shedding of the uterine lining in females, occurring if fertilization does not take place.

Menarche

The first occurrence of menstruation, marking the onset of a girl's reproductive capability.

Secondary sexual characters

Physical traits that differentiate males from females, such as facial hair in boys and breast development in girls.

Pituitary gland

An endocrine gland attached to the brain that regulates other glands and the production of hormones.

Goitre

A condition caused by the deficiency of the hormone thyroxine from the thyroid gland, leading to an enlarged thyroid gland.

Balanced diet

A diet that includes all the necessary nutrients in the right proportions to support growth and health.

Acne

A skin condition commonly occurring during puberty due to increased activity of sebaceous glands.

Chromosomes

Thread-like structures in the nucleus of cells that carry genetic information, including sex chromosomes XX and XY.

Menopause

The cessation of menstruation and reproductive capability in females, usually occurring between ages 45 and 50.

Growth hormone

A hormone secreted by the pituitary gland that is crucial for normal growth and development during adolescence.