Puberty

What is puberty?

Puberty is when kids’ bodies start growing to be more like an adult. It happens over a few years, and you’ll notice changes in your body and your feelings.

When does it start?

Most girls start puberty between 8 and 13 years old. Most boys start between 9 and 14. But everyone’s different, so it can be quite normal to start earlier or later.

How do bodies change?

Hormones – like chemical messengers – from your brain tell your body it’s time to start growing up. You’ll probably grow taller, and hair will start growing under your arms and around your private parts. You might notice your sweat smells more and you may start to get pimples.

Some changes are different for boys and girls. Boys’ voices get deeper, they get stronger, their private parts grow bigger and eventually they start growing hair on their face. Girls start to grow breasts and get more curvy hips. The other big change for girls is starting their periods.

What is menstruation (periods)?

Periods are a normal part of growing up. It means you have a little bleeding from your vagina, usually once a month. Puberty changes your body so you can have a baby one day. Each month, the lining of your uterus (womb) where the baby would grow gets thicker. Then, when there’s no baby, your body doesn’t need that lining so it sheds over a few days. Your periods might not come every month at first while your body gets used to the change.

You might feel some pain in your tummy near the start of your period. Doing some exercise and using a heat pack, or having some medicine if allowed, can help.

How do feelings and relationships change?

You’ll probably want to do more things for yourself and might feel angry if you can’t. You might also start to feel attracted to other people. You might feel more tired or have more energy than usual, and your sleep could change too.

Lots of kids feel emotional, self-conscious or anxious during puberty. You might feel like you’re changing too fast or not keeping up with your friends’ changes. Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to look and all the differences will settle down and even out over time.

Why is it important to continue with physical activity and sport?

Being active during puberty is good for your body and your mind. Playing sport with friends can help you feel more confident and less stressed. It also helps you stay healthy while you’re growing up.

Further reading:

Puberty| Better Health Channel, opens in a new tab

Puberty Basics (for Teens) | Nemours KidsHealth, opens in a new tab