What Tanner stage is marked by pubic hair becoming coarse, dark, and curly in males?

The Tanner stages of sexual maturity provide a framework for understanding the physical development that occurs during puberty. In males, Tanner stage 3 is characterized by the development of coarser, darker, and curlier pubic hair. This stage typically follows the initial appearance of pubic hair, which is lighter and sparser, usually seen in Tanner stage 2.

At Tanner stage 3, not only does the texture of the pubic hair change, but the amount also increases significantly, indicating a progression in sexual maturity. This stage generally coincides with other markers of biological development, including the growth of the penis and increased testicular volume.

Recognizing the changes that accompany Tanner stage 3 is crucial in assessing male puberty development, making it a key stage to identify in pediatric evaluations.