Causes of Delayed Puberty: Top10 Causes in Men

Last Updated on 02/25/2026 by Farid Helal

Delayed puberty in men is a condition in which sexual maturation begins later than the average age. It typically starts after the age of 14. This occurs due to various causes.

In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for this condition in men. Also, I put up a list of the Top 10 Causes of the delay of puberty.

What is Puberty?

Puberty is an important phase of development, for both males and females, physically and emotionally. It marks the onset of sexual maturation and is characterized by various significant changes. For males, changes include body growth, voice deepening, and the development of secondary sexual characteristics.

Causes of Delayed puberty In Men

1- Functional hypogonadotropic hypogonadism

This is a temporary clinical state that is brought on by different factors. These include chronic illnesses such as severe persistent asthma, sickle cell anemia, cystic fibrosis, or ulcerative colitis. Functional It is a a temporary clinical state which is common cause of delayed puberty for both men and women.

It occurs when there is a delay in the production of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). This delay happens within the hypothalamic neuronal networks. These networks initiate the episodic or pulsatile release of GnRH. They also activate the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.

Source [Delayed puberty]

2- Constitutional delay of puberty

This is a condition where the child is just maturing more slowly than average, and often runs in families. Children with constitutional delay of puberty will eventually go through otherwise normal puberty, just at a late age.

3- Chronic illnesses

Chronic illnesses such as severe persistent asthma, sickle cell anemia, cystic fibrosis, or ulcerative colitis can cause delayed puberty. These illnesses place significant stress on the body.

4- Disorders of the thyroid or pituitary glands

The thyroid and pituitary glands are responsible for producing hormones that regulate growth and development, including puberty. Disorders of these glands, such as hypothyroidism or pituitary insufficiency, can cause delayed puberty.

5- Malnutrition or undernourishment

Adequate nutrition is essential for proper growth and development, including puberty. Malnutrition or undernourishment can delay the onset of puberty.

6- Genetic conditions

Genetic conditions such as Klinefelter syndrome (XXY) or Turner syndrome (XO) can cause delayed puberty. These conditions are caused by abnormalities in the sex chromosomes affecting the body’s ability to produce hormones involved in puberty.

7- Exposure to toxins or radiation

Exposure to toxins or radiation can damage the glands responsible for producing hormones involved in puberty, leading to delayed puberty.

8- Certain medications or drugs

Certain medications, such as chemotherapy or anabolic steroids, can interfere with the body’s hormone production in puberty. This interference can lead to delayed puberty.

9- Emotional or psychological stress

Emotional or psychological stress can interfere with the hormonal signals that trigger puberty, leading to a delay in onset.

10- Idiopathic or unknown causes

In some cases, the cause of delayed puberty may not be identified despite a thorough medical evaluation. This is known as idiopathic or unknown delayed puberty.

Summary

Delayed puberty in men, is a condition where sexual development starts later than usual. It can be caused by various factors, including functional hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, malnutrition, chronic illnesses and genetic conditions.

Delay is typically later than 14 years of age. In some cases, the cause of delayed puberty may not be identified. Children with delayed puberty will eventually go through otherwise normal puberty, just at a later age.

SOURCES

• Delayed Puberty – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov)
• https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/puberty/conditioninfo/causes