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Short stature in children (short for age)

Also called: Short stature, short for age, short child

A child much shorter than others their age. Most are healthy and short like their parents; a doctor checks growth over time.

Common causesFamily height, late bloomers

Overview

Many short children are healthy and simply take after short parents (familial short stature) or grow later than peers (constitutional delay).

Doctors look most at how fast a child grows over time, not just height at one visit.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Child shorter than peers

Less common

  • Slow growth over time
  • Delayed puberty

When to get medical care

Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayHeadaches with vomiting or vision changes in a short child.
See a doctor soonGrowth slowing.

Causes

Genes, hormones.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Diagnosis

Growth chart over time.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Bone age X-ray:
  • Blood tests:

Treatment

Track growth.

Self-care

  • Measure height at each well visit
  • Bring parents' heights to visits
  • Make sure your child eats well and sleeps enough

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your child's pediatrician.
  • They may send you to a pediatric specialist: an endocrinologist (hormone doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Late bloomers: Often have a growth spurt later and reach normal adult height.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

  • Learn the warning signs and when to call the doctor or 911.
  • Keep a list of your child's medicines, doses, and doctors on your phone.
  • Tell teachers, coaches, and sitters what to watch for and what to do.
  • Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Usually healthy.

Most short children are healthy.

Growth hormone helps some children with specific conditions.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • Parents' heights
  • Past growth records

Questions to ask

  • Is my child growing at a normal speed?
  • Do we need a bone age X-ray?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Short stature in children (short for age)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.