Body shape Breasts Your mind and thought patterns.
The hormone that begins puberty is GnRH. These changes don’t happen overnight. You may not even notice the physical and mental changes at first. There is nothing wrong in watching your body for signs of puberty. This may help prepare you to handle the changes you are about to experience.
Race. African-American girls often reach puberty earlier than Caucasian, or white, girls. [4] X Trustworthy Source Michigan Medicine The University of Michigan’s medical center, which provides patient care, supports research, and educates the public on health topics Go to source Weight. If you weigh more, you are more likely to go through puberty at an earlier age. Social factors. The lack of an adult male figure, mother-daughter relationship, living in a stressful home environment, can make a girl go through puberty more quickly. In addition, some people think that exposure to overt sexuality in the media may contribute to early puberty in girls. Age of female relatives starting puberty. Most girls start puberty at around the same age as their mother, sisters, grandmother, or aunts. [5] X Research source
Don’t be ashamed or embarrassed to talk to your doctor about your body and ask them questions.
If you have a lump in your breast that is painful, red, warm, or has discharge, tell your parents so that they can take you to a doctor. Be aware that one breast or bud may develop more quickly than the other. This is also something that is completely normal. Consider a training bra if your breasts are sensitive. This isn’t necessary at this stage of your development, but it may be exciting.
In some cases, you might get pubic hair before breast buds, but either is usually a clear way to tell that you’re starting puberty. Remember that you are not doing anything wrong by exploring your vagina or labia for pubic hair. [10] X Research source
Hips Thighs Arms Legs Hands Feet[12] X Research source
Consider shaving your armpit hair, which can encourage bacteria growth and body odor if left to grow wild. [15] X Research source You may also want to consider wearing deodorant once you start developing armpit hair to prevent body odor.
Check your underwear for signs of the discharge. Pay attention to odor. If it has a heavy odor or itches, see a doctor.
Your period may be irregular for the first couple of years. Keeping track of your period on a calendar may help you figure out your personal schedule. Get the supplies you need to handle your periods, such as pads or panty liners. As you grow older, you can consider tampons. You may feel cramps, bloating, backaches, or headaches before and during your period. Consider taking an over-the-counter pain reliever to deal with the discomfort.
Wash your face with a mild soap or cleanser to get rid of excess sebum and reduce breakouts. Ask your doctor about over-the-counter or prescription medications if your breakouts are severe.
You may also gain some weight and notice other changes in your body’s shape, such as a curvier figure and wider hips.
Feeling sensitive about your body’s changes or to other things like criticism or teasing Having much more intense emotions such as being very jealous of another girl when you wouldn’t have been before Going through frequent mood swings where you’re up one minute and down the next. [23] X Research source Experiencing body image issues Having less self-esteem or less self-confidence Feeling anxiety or even depression. [24] X Research source
Understanding more complex subjects or matters, such as the consequences of not doing homework Making more of your own moral choices, such as knowing when it’s right to stand up for someone else who is being bullied. Having a better sense of your likes and dislikes. [25] X Research source
Gain more independence by asking your parents to let you stay out later or go to the movies with friends. These can help you cope with puberty and grow up. Recognize that your friends may change as you figure out who you are. Make your own decisions as far as your parents will allow. For example, this might include picking out your own clothing every day. Conflict between yourself and your friends and family is a part of growing up. Use this as a chance to learn how to handle arguments. [27] X Research source
Don’t believe any myths about masturbation. It won’t make hair grow on your hands, cause blindness, or make you infertile. [29] X Research source Ask a friend, family member, or medical professional about your body or masturbation. You may feel embarrassed, but remember that your feelings are totally normal.
You can date people that you are attracted to, but be aware that your feelings for them may change overnight. Talk to your parents, friends, family, or a medical professional if you have questions about attraction, dating, kissing, and even sex. [31] X Research source If you’re thinking about having sex, talk to your parents, doctor, or trusted adult first, and ensure that you’re protected from pregnancy and diseases.
