What are the primary and secondary sexual characteristics?

Sexual characteristics, which can be directly understood as the features of sex, can distinguish men and women. In medicine, various internal and external reproductive organs are called primary sexual characteristics, while secondary sexual characteristics refer to some characteristics that gradually become apparent during growth, such as the prominent Adam's apple of male and the delicate voice of female. Understanding the differences between primary and secondary sexual characteristics helps teenagers gain a deeper understanding of their bodies. What are primary sexual characteristics? Firstly, they refer to the fundamental symbol of gender difference in reproductive organ structure between the two sexes. What are secondary sexual characteristics? They refer to a series of gender-related characteristics that appear after puberty due to the influence of sex hormones secreted by the gonads. In simple terms, primary sexual characteristics are the essential features that distinguish males and females. After the maturity of secondary sexual characteristics, men and women have different manifestations, such as facial hair, prominent Adam's apple, large bones, and deep voices in males; well-developed mammary glands, wide pelvis, rich subcutaneous fat, and high-pitched voices in females. Why should we learn about secondary sexual characteristics? "Sexual desire" emerges as we age. Don't overreact; it's very natural and normal, just like tooth growth or breast development. Whether male or female, when seeing certain photos or scenes, there will naturally be some physical reactions, such as palpitations, increased vaginal secretions, or penis erection. This period may also involve sexual fantasies or erotic dreams. Understanding secondary sexual characteristics allows more adolescents to recognize themselves and their bodies. Firstly, let the children know that all of these are normal phenomena, and many children may experience them. There is no need to feel confused about it. Most children can accept and let go of this phenomenon through communication or learning. Some children may feel ashamed or even guilty about their normal reactions, doubting their integrity. If not properly and accurately guided in time, these children may develop psychological problems in the future. Therefore, parents' affirmation is crucial to children, just like giving them a reassurance.