Delayed/Confusing Puberty

[Ambiguous_E]

Hi, I'm a 17 year old male, and I am confused about my stage of puberty. My penis has grown very little if at all in width/length, I have no facial or armpit hair, yet I have grown over a foot in about a year, my voice has deepened significantly, I have coarse, thick pubic hair, and I can produce semen. I have been masturbating to orgasm for longer than I can remember (probably since I was about 9, by my guess). I was wondering if there's anything I can do that's been delaying it, or anything I can do to speed up my penile growth, as I am interested in women, but I cannot act upon my feelings besides masturbation, which I have been doing a lot.

Thanks,
E

[Debbie Miller, RN]

Hello,
I suspect this is just a case of time. Average ages are calculated based on some who mature earlier; some later. But, it would not hurt to have a complete physical exam with a doctor - in fact it is recommended in adolescence. Your pediatrician is still an excellent resource at your age because he or she is knowledgeable about human growth and developmental stages. The doctor will evaluate and perhaps check hormone levels to see if there is anything amiss. If it's just patience you need, at least you will know you have checked it out to be sure.

Best wishes.