puberty

what is puberty?

Puberty is the period of time when we undergo changes related to maturing from a child into an adult. These changes happen both in your body and in your brain, meaning that you'll experience physical changes, as well as mental and emotional changes. Usually, puberty starts when someone is between the ages of 8 to 14 and ends around age 17, but for some people it may start and end earlier or later — it's different for everyone. It's totally okay if your friends have started experiencing signs of puberty and you haven't yet, or vice versa; everyone will be dealing with it soon!

Puberty starts when the brain begins releasing hormones that signal to either your ovaries or testes that it's time to start producing sex hormones; that's estrogen for people with ovaries, or testosterone for people with testes. These hormones are responsible for the changes that take place throughout your adolescence. But what exactly are those changes? Read on to learn what to expect.

puberty for people with ovaries

Breast development: One of the first changes many people notice when they start puberty is their breasts budding. When this happens, you'll notice small lumps starting to form on your chest under your nipple that might feel tender to the touch. You also might notice your areolas (the darker circle around your nipples) getting bigger and forming a small mound on top of your breast. Throughout puberty, your breast tissue will continue to grow.
Body shape and size: Your body is going to significantly change shape and size during puberty. You'll have growth spurts, where you rapidly increases in height, normally around 2-3 inches per year. During these growth spurts, you might experience some pain in your limbs; that's normal, and it's called growing pains! As your body grows, you'll also experience a healthy increase in your weight, and you'll notice your body getting curvier, especially through your hips.
Body hair: During puberty, your body hair starts to grow. At first, you might only see a few dark, coarse, curly hairs starting to appear around your vulva, but eventually your pubic hair will grow to fully cover your vulva. It might grow up onto your lower stomach and down through your butt crack, too. You'll also start to get hair in your armpits during puberty, and you might start growing more, darker hair on your legs and arms. Some people shave or trim their armpit, leg, or pubic hair, but it's totally up to you what feels comfortable for your body. There's nothing wrong with leaving your body hair just as it is.
Skin changes: As your body changes, your skin becomes more oily and starts to produce more sweat. This can lead to an increase in body odor and acne.
Changes to the vulva and vagina: Some of the changes that happen to your sexual and reproductive organs during puberty are very apparent, while you might not even notice others. Your uterus, vagina, labia, and clitoris will all grow in size, and you might notice the skin of your vulva getting slightly darker. Your vaginal discharge may become more apparent during puberty; this is usually a clear or white fluid that your vagina secretes as part of how it cleans itself. In addition to these changes and the growth of pubic hair, you will also have your first period, or menarche — more on that next.

menstruation & pelvic health

Menstruation, better known as having your period, is a normal part of life for most people with a uterus after they have reached puberty. During menstruation, blood and uterine lining sheds and comes out of the vagina. People with uteruses experience a menstrual cycle, the body's way of getting ready for a potential pregnancy each month. There are four phases of the menstrual cycle, and each can affect you in different ways.

Menstrual phase: Begins on the first day of your period. Blood and tissue from the uterus flow out of the vagina. You may have tender breasts, cramps, bloating, acne, and mood changes.

Follicular phase: Lasts about two weeks, beginning with the first day of your period; overlaps with the menstrual phase. Your body begins to grow follicles filled with immature eggs.

Ovulatory phase: About a week after your period ends, your body releases an egg. This is when you can get pregnant. During ovulation, you may have increased discharge that is thicker than usual and an increased sex drive.

Luteal phase: After ovulation, your uterine lining thickens again to prepare for a fertilized egg to implant. If you don't get pregnant, this is what will shed during your period. You might experience PMS (pre-menstrual syndrome), with symptoms like a down or anxious mood, bloating and stomach pain, or changes in your sex drive and appetite.

This image is sourced from Learn Body Literacy and used here in accordance with Creative Commons Licensing.

This image is sourced from Learn Body Literacy and used here in accordance with Creative Commons Licensing.

period products

When you get your period, you'll need to start using period products to absorb the blood and uterine lining that comes out of your vagina each month so you don't get it on your clothes. There are many different options for which period products you want to use, depending on your physical and mental comfort, the heaviness of your flow, and what activity you'll be during while you use them. A lot of people use multiple options, even multiple at the same time, depending on which day of their cycle they are in, how much protection they are looking for, or the time of day.

Many people start with pads when they first get their period. Pads can feel less intimidating than some other period products, since they don't go inside your vagina, but rather stick to the inside of your underwear, where they catch your menstrual blood as it flows out of your vagina.

Pads come in different sizes depending on your flow, ranging from light to extra heavy.
- If you have hardly any flow, such as at the end of your period, you might just need a panty liner. You can also use panty liners at other times in your cycle if you have a lot of discharge and would rather not get it on your undies.
Change your pad every few hours, or once it's soaked with blood.
Most pads are disposable, so when it's time to change it, you can use the wrapper from the new one or toilet paper to wrap the used one up and put it in the trash. Never flush a used pad! You can also buy fabric reusuable pads if you prefer.

Tampons are cotton cylinders with strings attached that can be inserted into your vagina to absorb menstrual blood as it flows out of your uterus.

To insert a tampon, spread your legs apart either on the toilet or while standing. Place the applicator just inside your vagina and push the tampon inside. The string should hang outside your vagina. Throw away the applicator and wrapper in the trash.
Remove your tampon after a few hours or once it's fully soaked with blood. To remove your tampon, sit on the toilet and gently pull on the string. Wrap the used tampon in toilet paper and throw it in the trash — don't flush it.

You shouldn't be able to feel a tampon much as your go about your day. If your tampon feels uncomfortable, go to the bathroom and change it out for a new one. If you're often uncomfortable with a tampon in, consider switching to a different period product.
Never leave a tampon in for longer than 8 hours, including overnight. If you do, you risk getting Toxic Shock Syndrome, a rare and dangerous condition that happens when there is an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina.

Menstrual cups are soft, reusable bell-shaped cups that are inserted into the vagina and collect menstrual blood as it flows out of the uterus.

There are many different brands of menstrual cups, and while they are all fairly similar, there is some variation in their size and shape. Most brands have at least two size options, so choose the one that works for you.

To insert a menstrual cup, follow the directions that came with it. Spread your legs apart either on the toilet or while standing, then squeeze or fold the cup and slide it into your vagina. Especially the first few times you use a cup, this can take some practice, so don't get discouraged; just remove it and try again if you can't quite get it right.
Remove your menstrual cup after about 8-12 hours or once it is full of blood. To remove it, pull on the stem at the bottom or hook a finger into the rim. Empty the cup into the toilet, and if possible, rinse it out in the sink and put it back in. If you aren't in a place where you can clean it out, just replace it after emptying it.

You shouldn't be able to feel a menstrual cup much as your go about your day. If your cup feels uncomfortable, go to the bathroom and adjust it. If you're often uncomfortable with your menstrual cup in, consider switching to a different period product.
If you have an IUD, don't use menstrual cups, since they can move your IUD.

Menstrual discs are flexible discs that are inserted into the vagina and rest higher in the vaginal canal, below the cervix, where they collect menstrual blood as it flows out of the uterus.

To insert a menstrual disc, follow the directions that came with it. Spread your legs apart either on the toilet or while standing, then squeeze the disc and slide it into your vagina with the rim facing upward. Especially the first few times you use a disc, this can take some practice, so don't get discouraged; just remove it and try again if you can't quite get it right.
Remove your menstrual disc after about 8-12 hours or once it is full of blood. To remove it, hook a finger into the rim and pull. Empty the disc into the toilet. If it isn't reusable, wrap it in toilet paper and throw it away.

You shouldn't be able to feel a menstrual disc much as your go about your day. If your disc feels uncomfortable, go to the bathroom and adjust it. If you're often uncomfortable with your menstrual cup in, consider switching to a different period product.

Period underwear is just like other underwear, except that it has additional layers of fabric to absorb menstrual blood.

Period underwear comes in all different sizes and styles, so you can wear the type that you prefer. Period underwear can be a great option if you're trans or just uncomfortable with your period, since nothing goes inside of you and you don't need to look at your menstrual blood.
You can wear your period underwear all day, but if you have a very heavy flow, it might be best to bring an extra pair with you during the day in case you want to change it. You can also carry a plastic bag with you in case you want to store your used period underwear before you get home.
Period underwear is reusable; you can wash it in the washing machine just like your other clothes. Wash your period underwear after each day of use.

period products

Like pads, tampons come in different sizes depending on your flow, ranging from light to extra heavy. Use the tampon size that feels comfortable and absorbs your period blood fully for a few hours at a time.
Some tampons come with plastic or cardboard applicators, while others do not have an applicator and are inserted using your fingers. Try multiple options and choose what feels best to you.

There are many different brands of menstrual discs, and while they are all fairly similar, there is some variation in their size and shape. Always read the directions that come with your menstrual discs to make sure you are using them correctly.

period comfort

When you get your period, you may experience some common symptoms that can make it pretty uncomfortable to go about your normal life. While you hopefully won't experience all of these, some common period symptoms include headaches, pelvic cramps, bloating, breast or back pain, gastrointestinal issues, fatigue, acne, and mood swings. To help combat any discomfort, try some of these tips!

Use heat therapy. Heat can help relax your muscles and improve blood flow to the affected area. Place a heating pad or hot water bottle on your stomach or back to help with cramps or pain, take a hot shower or bath, or drink a cup of tea.
Use medications. Some common painkillers like ibuprofen and naproxen are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which help stop inflammation and cramps by reducing the contraction of uterine muscles. If you can't take NSAIDs, you can try acetaminophen or Midol.
Stay hydrated and eat the right foods. Drinking lots of water can help you feel less bloated. Eating foods high in fiber, calcium, and magnesium can help you feel less fatigued, improve your mood, and help with bloating and cramps. Avoid fried foods, caffeine, alcohol, and sugary foods, which can make bloating and cramps worse.
Exercise! While it might feel like the last thing you want to do while you're on your period, exercising releases endorphins that can improve your mood and help reduce symptoms like cramps, headaches, and bloating.

pelvic health

Uteruses, vaginas, and vulvas are complicated; there's a lot that can happen to make things uncomfortable down there. If you're having any kind of discomfort inside your pelvic area, inside your vagina, or around your vulva, it's always best to seek medical help from a doctor as soon as possible. Here are some common issues that people with uteruses sometimes face.

yeast infections: Common fungal infections that most people with vaginas will have at some point in their lives. Symptoms include itching or redness of the vulva and/or vagina, a burning feeling while peeing or having vaginal intercourse, and thick, white vaginal discharge. Treatment includes anti-fungal medication that can be bought without a prescription at the drug store. If you still have symptoms after treatment, go to the doctor.
urinary tract infections (UTIs): Infections that anyone can get in any part of the urinary system, though they are more common in people with vaginas. Common symptoms include frequent urination and burning while peeing. Treatment includes prescribed antibiotics. To prevent UTIs, always pee after engaging in sexual activity, change your underwear regularly, consume lots of fluids, and clean your vulva regularly with mild soap and warm water.
bacterial vaginosis: Common vaginal infections caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina. Most people have no symptoms, but some symptoms include fishy-smelling or off-colored vaginal discharge, itching or irritation, and burning when you pee. Treatment includes prescribed antibiotics.
premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD): A severe form of PMS with unknown causes. Symptoms include severe mood changes that only occur leading up to your period and right after it begins. Treatment usually includes a variety of approaches depending on your symptoms.
polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), formerly known as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS): A common condition caused by hormonal imbalance. Symptoms can include irregular periods, cysts on the ovaries, excess hair growth on the face and body, and infertility. There is no cure for PMOS, but symptoms are commonly treated using hormonal birth control methods.
vaginismus: Involuntary tightening of the vaginal muscles that can lead to pain upon insertion of a tampon or medical device, or during penetrative sexual activity. While the causes of vaginismus aren't completely known, researchers believe that it is mainly a psychological disorder. Treatment usually involves a combination of talk therapy and pelvic floor therapy.
endometriosis: A chronic condition where endometrium, the tissue that makes up the lining of the uterus, grows outside of the uterus. Symptoms of endometriosis include frequent pelvic pain, especially around your period, during sex, or when you go to the bathroom. The causes of endometriosis aren't completely known, and there is no cure. Treatment usually involves a combination of hormonal birth control, pain relief, pelvic floor therapy, and lifestyle changes. In severe cases, surgical intervention to remove the excess endometrium can help reduce symptoms.

puberty for people with testes

Body shape and size: Your body is going to significantly change shape and size during puberty. You'll have growth spurts, where you rapidly increases in height, normally around 2-4 inches per year. During these growth spurts, you might experience some pain in your limbs; that's normal, and it's called growing pains! As your body grows, you'll also experience a healthy increase in your weight and you'll notice your body growing more muscle mass. Your chest and shoulders will broaden. A lot of people with testes develop breast tissue during puberty, but it almost always goes away on its own by the end of puberty.
Body and facial hair: During puberty, your body hair starts to grow. At first, you might only see a few dark, coarse, curly hairs starting to appear around the base of your penis, but eventually your pubic hair will grow to fully cover your pubic area, including your scrotum, and you may have a few hairs along the length of your penis. Hair will also grow up onto your lower stomach and down through your butt crack, too. You'll also start to get hair in your armpits during puberty, and you might start growing more or darker hair on your legs, arms, chest, and back. Towards the end of puberty, you'll start to grow hair on your face and neck. Some people remove or trim their body hair, but it's totally up to you what feels comfortable for your body. There's nothing wrong with leaving your body hair just as it is.
Skin changes: As your body changes, your skin becomes more oily and starts to produce more sweat. This can lead to an increase in body odor and acne.
Voice changes: Your voice will start to crack, and then become lower and deeper, continuing to change throughout puberty. You'll also notice the bump on the front of your throat, called an Adam's apple, start to grow and stick out as your voice changes.
Changes to the penis and testicles: Some of the changes that happen to your sexual and reproductive organs during puberty are very apparent, while you might not even notice others. One of the first signs of puberty is growth of your testicles and scrotum. Your penis will also grow and change throughout puberty, both in length and girth. The skin of your penis and testicles will become darker and may feel less smooth.
Erections: While you're going through puberty, you'll experience an increase in involuntary erections (aka boners). This can feel embarrassing, but it happens to everyone with a penis, and it doesn't even mean you're aroused; they can happen just from brushing against something, or even the friction from your own clothes. Give it a few minutes and it should go away on its own.
Ejaculation: You gain the ability to ejaculate during puberty. Ejaculation is when your penis releases a whitish fluid called semen that contains sperm. Usually, this happens when your penis is sexually stimulated. It's also normal to start having "wet dreams" during puberty, also known as nocturnal emissions; that's when you ejaculate while you're asleep. If this happens, it's no big deal; just wash your sheets or clothes and move on!

mental & emotional changes

The changes that are happening in your body while you go through puberty aren't the only ones. The same hormones that spur on all of the physical changes also can make you feel very different emotionally. Your feelings might suddenly seem more intense, confusing, and harder to control. It's very likely that you'll experience mood swings, when your feelings go from one extreme to the other, during puberty. You might feel more anxious, especially about your body and how you are perceived by others. You could find that you feel angry or upset more often, too. A major change that happens during puberty is that most people start to feel more interested in sex and relationships. (If you don't, that's okay too!)

When everyone around you is also going through puberty, it's a combination that can result in a lot of drama. If you're struggling with the mental and emotional changes that happen during puberty, try talking to a trusted adult for help, and incorporate more activities into your life that can help you release stress, like physical activity, creative expression, and socializing with friends.

hygiene

If you've already started puberty, you might have noticed that you and your friends smell...different, to put it nicely! Hygiene becomes even more important during this time in your development, since all of those hormones make you more sweaty and stinky. To make sure that you feel your best, try the following:

Shower regularly; try for every day. You don't have to wash your hair every day, depending on your hair texture and how greasy it gets, but try to at least wash your armpits, butt, genitals, and feet.
- If you have a vulva, wash it with delicate soap and warm water only. Your vagina is self-cleaning, so you only need to use warm water to clean yourself. Never put soap inside your vagina!
- If you have an uncircumcised penis or bottom growth, make sure that you gently pull back your foreskin or clitoral hood to clean underneath it.
- If you have discomfort with your body, whether you're transgender or not, try showering in dim lighting, distract yourself by listening to music or a podcast while you wash, or even wear a bathing suit or t-shirt in the shower if you can't stand to look at some of your body parts at the moment.
Wear deodorant. Put some on your armpits every morning before you go out for the day. Some people also apply deodorant at night. Carry an extra with you, too, in case you get stinky during the day (like after gym class).
Do your laundry. If your parent had been doing your laundry when you were a kid, it's time for you to take over. Not only will your parent appreciate it, but doing your own laundry will help make sure that your clothes are clean and ready when you want to wear them, and it'll also make it easier for you to handle any private items or messes you don't want your parent to see.
- Any clothes that directly touch your skin should be washed every time you wear them; that's underwear, socks, and most shirts and pants. You might be able to get away with washing outerwear like sweatshirts or denim jeans after every few washes if they aren't smelly.
- If you wear a bra or binder, they are considered “delicates” and most recommend hand washing & air drying after ~3 wears if you’re not sweaty. If you use a gaff or tucking underwear, they should be cleaned after every use.

Acne isn't a hygiene problem; almost everyone has acne while they're going through puberty. Still, if you feel very bothered by your acne, or if it's so severe that you're in pain or anxious about being seen by other people, try seeing a doctor for help. There are medications that can help reduce acne.

If you have mild to moderate acne, you can try:

Don't pop your pimples! While it's tempting, messing with your pimples can actually make them more inflamed or even lead to scarring. Instead, use products with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, which can help kill germs or dry out pimples.
Wash your face gently, once or twice per day or when you get sweaty (like after you exercise). Over-washing can dry out your skin and make your acne worse.
If you wear any makeup on your face, make sure to remove it completely before bed at night, and try to avoid touching your face throughout the day.
Drink lots of water and eat a nutritious diet.

puberty discomfort

It's really common for people to feel uncomfortable with some or all of the changes that happen during puberty. If you don't like what's happening to you during puberty, try some of the following:

Talk about it with a trusted adult, like a parent or therapist. Communicate what you're feeling uncomfortable about. While it might feel awkward to talk to an adult about what you're feeling, remember, every adult once went through puberty too! Your trusted adult might have some tips to share that helped them through puberty when they were your age, or they can help you figure out if the discomfort you're feeling is more than what people typically go through during puberty.
Talk about it with friends who are also going through puberty. There's a pretty good chance that your friends are feeling some of the same discomfort that you're feeling. It can help to know that you're not alone, and they also could have some recommendations for what's been helping them through. Sharing in all of the awkward and uncomfortable moments with your friends makes it easier to deal with!
Talk to a doctor. While puberty is often an uncomfortable and confusing time, you shouldn't feel like the world is ending. If you're feeling a lot of pain or discomfort, if your emotions feel out of control, or if you're questioning your gender identity, a doctor can help. A doctor can help to evaluate if what you're experiencing is normal discomfort from puberty, or something more. You might benefit from therapy, medication, or other treatments if your doctor finds that your discomfort isn't typical.

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