During puberty, hormonal changes cause hips to widen, primarily to prepare the female body for childbirth.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
- Hormonal Influence: Puberty triggers increased production of hormones, especially estrogen in females.
- Bone Growth: Estrogen stimulates growth and changes in the skeletal structure, specifically around the pelvic region.
- Pelvic Widening: The iliac crests (the upper, wing-like parts of the hip bones) flare outwards. The entire pelvis widens to create a larger birth canal.
- Fat Deposition: Estrogen also contributes to increased fat deposition around the hips and thighs, contributing to the perceived "spreading" of the hips.
- Genetics: Genes play a role in determining the extent of hip widening. Heredity influences bone structure and fat distribution.
In summary, hip widening during puberty is a complex process influenced by hormones (primarily estrogen) that alter bone structure and fat distribution in the pelvic region, with genetics also playing a significant role. This widening primarily occurs in females to prepare their bodies for potential childbirth in the future.