Puberty is a natural phase that everyone goes through, but it often comes with lots of questions. During this time, the body and mind experience many changes, and it can feel confusing or overwhelming. Below, we answer the top 10 questions about puberty to help teens and parents better understand this essential stage in life.
1. What Is Puberty, and When Does It Usually Start?
Puberty is the time in a person’s life when their body begins to develop and change as they move toward becoming an adult. Most girls start puberty between 10 and 11 years old, while boys usually begin puberty a little later, around 11 or 12. However, it’s normal for puberty to start as early as eight or as late as 16. Please know that not everyone goes through puberty at the same pace, and that’s completely normal.
2. What Physical Changes Happen During Puberty?
There are many different changes that happen to the body during puberty, such as developing breasts in girls and broader shoulders in boys. Both boys and girls start to grow body hair, including pubic hair, under their arms and around their genitals. Girls go through growth spurts, as do boys, but typically at different times. Everyone who identifies as female will experience changes like a first period, while boys may notice changes like their voices deepening.
3. How Does Puberty Affect Emotions and Mood?
Puberty doesn’t just bring physical changes; it also impacts emotions. The body releases hormones that can make teens feel a range of emotions, sometimes quickly changing from happy to sad or frustrated. These shifts are entirely normal and a part of adjusting to new hormone levels.
4. What Are the First Signs of Puberty?
Signs of puberty can vary, but common early signs include growth spurts and the development of breast tissue in girls and testicle enlargement in boys. Girls may also notice that their body shape starts to change, including growing broader hips, while boys begin to develop muscle mass. Both boys and girls may experience an increase in acne.
5. Why Do People Go Through Puberty?
Puberty prepares the body for adulthood, including the potential for reproduction. During puberty, reproductive organs such as ovaries in girls and testicles in boys mature. This is why girls get their periods and boys go through changes like sperm production.
6. How Long Does Puberty Last?
Everyone’s experience is unique, but puberty typically lasts several years. For some, it may span around 4-6 years, but it can also take longer. Each person develops at their own pace, so while some may move through puberty quickly, others grow later, and that’s okay.
7. When Will I Get My First Period?
Girls typically get their first period around age 12, but it can happen anywhere from ages 10 to 15. Some might feel self-conscious, but it’s just a natural part of life. Puberty brings the body into a reproductive phase, and menstruation is a regular part of that process.
8. What Is Vaginal Discharge, and Is It Normal?
Vaginal discharge is a natural fluid that helps keep the vagina clean and healthy. As puberty progresses, girls may notice discharge in their underwear. This is entirely normal and usually happens before a girl gets her period for the first time.
9. What Is the Difference Between Pads, Tampons, and Menstrual Cups?
For those who menstruate, it’s essential to understand the options available when you get your period. Pads are external and adhere to underwear, tampons are inserted into the vagina, and menstrual cups collect blood internally. It’s common for teens to try different products to find what feels most comfortable.
10. Who Can I Talk to About Puberty Questions?
It’s perfectly okay to have questions and want answers about the changes happening in your body. Trusted adults, such as parents, school counselors, or doctors, can provide guidance. Websites like Nemours KidsHealth also offer reliable information.
Conclusion
Puberty can be a challenging time, but it’s also an essential part of growing up. Remember that everyone goes through these changes, even though it might feel like no one understands what you’re experiencing. If you have more common questions about puberty or need advice, reach out for support – you’re not alone.
