Tanner stages : Simplified with Mnemonics

Breast Development

Mnemonic: ABCDE

  1. Stage 1 – Absent development
  2. Stage 2 – Breast bud
  3. Stage 3 – Common Contour (not separated)
  4. Stage 4 – Double mound (contour separated)
  5. Stage 5 – End stage development (Adult type)

Male Genitalia Development

Mnemonic: ABCDE

  1. Stage 1 – Absent development
  2. Stage 2 – Bulky testes and scrotum
  3. Stage 3 – Cock lengthens
  4. Stage 4 – Darkening of scrotum
  5. Stage 5 – End stage development (Adult type)

Pubic Hair Development

Mnemonic: A Small CAT

  1. Stage 1 – Absent
  2. Stage 2 – Straight
  3. Stage 3 – Curling
  4. Stage 4 – Adult
  5. Stage 5 – Thighs
FemaleBothMale
StageBreastPubic HairGenitalia
1PreadolescentNoneChildhood size
2Breast budSparse, straightEnlargement of scrotum, testes
3Areolar diameter enlargesDarker, curlingPenis grows in length; testes continue to enlarge
4Secondary mound; separation of contoursCoarse, curly, adult typePenis grow in length/breadth; scrotum darkens, testes enlarge
5Mature femaleAdult, extends to thighAdult shape/size


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