Advice

For girls, hitting puberty tends to mean growth in the boob department, bushiness in the vagina department and mood swings in the mood swing department. Don't worry though, it's all normal. Get clued-up on puberty here...

What is it?

Adolescence, becoming a woman, growing up, reaching sexual maturity

What is it?

Puberty is when your body changes from the body of a girl to that of a woman.

When will it happen to me?

The average age girls start puberty is between nine and thirteen, but many start younger or a lot older than that. There's nothing wrong with being a slow or early starter. So don't expect to develop exactly the same speed as your mates.

How will my body change?

• Your breasts will probably start to grow first and soon the whole of your body will take on a more curvy, womanly shape. So expect to put on a bit of weight. It's meant to happen.
• You'll get taller, much quicker than you did before. Your arms and legs will grow fastest, which might feel a bit weird until the rest of you catches up.
• Hair will begin to grow on your vagina and armpits. The hairs on your legs and upper lip may become more noticeable.
• Your vagina will change shape, with the inner lips (labia minora) getting larger. You'll also start getting vaginal discharge, which can be a sign that you'll soon start your periods.
• Your skin and hair will probably become more oily. You might get acne. You'll sweat more, so you'll need to take extra care over personal hygiene.

Will I feel different inside?

Probably. Some girls feel emotional and have a lot of mood swings.
Most of us figure out who we are during puberty and what we really think about things.
But you're still you and always will be, so get used to it.