As a result, insulin requirements increase dramatically and are usually the highest per pound body weight that they will ever be. The insulin requirement usually decreases when growth is completed. If blood sugar control is good during puberty, full growth is usually reached. Sex Hormones Female sexual development includes breast and hair development, widening of the hips, and the onset of menstrual cycles. These pubertal changes may be slightly delayed in girls with diabetes.
Males have enlargement of the testes and penis, and facial and other body hair begins to grow.
When body odors become noticeable, for males or females, the use of deodorants is desirable. Tetracycline or other antibiotics are fine to use if acne pustules become a problem. Males may be tempted to try steroid drugs to try to make their muscles larger. Use of these steroid drugs can prevent full height attainment, lead to increased blood cholesterol levels, and an increased risk for heart attacks in later life. They also may cause aggressive behavior, resulting in problems getting along with others.