What Is Puberty?
Puberty is the natural process of your body changing to become an adult and reach "sexual maturity." In this context, sexual maturity means that you are essentially able to reproduce and have a child.
Source: Johns Hopkins MedicineWhy Is It Happening?
Puberty is happening because, as you grow older, your body changes to accommodate being able to reproduce. Your hormones, which are like messages from your brain, to the rest of your body, start to change at a certain age (usually around 8 to 13), and those hormones tell your body to start changing some things!
Source: Johns Hopkins MedicineWhat Should I Expect?
You will experience a combination of physical, mental, and hormonal changes during puberty, and it is all totally normal!
Breast Development
You may notice your breasts becoming larger than before, or the nipples becoming more sensitive. This is called "budding" and it is one of the earliest signs of puberty. Everyone develops at their own pace, and there are no identical timelines.
New Hair Growth
You may start to experience more hair growth in places you did not have it before, or more hair in regular places. New hair growth typically occurs in the armpits and around the vagina. You may also have thicker hair on your arms and legs. All of these experiences, whether in stages or all at once, are completely normal.
Acne
Hormone shifts are a primary factor in causing acne. Because your hormones are changing, you are likely to experience new or more acne, and the severity depends on many factors: genetics, stress, diet, and your individual body chemistry.
Getting Your Period
One of the biggest milestones of puberty is getting your first period. This means your body is now capable of reproduction. We will cover everything about your cycle in the next section.
Tips to Feel Your Best
Find the right deodorant
Your body will start to smell more when you sweat during puberty, so wearing deodorant is a normal and important part of hygiene. There are many types, antiperspirants, gels, natural formulas. Find what is best for you.
Keep clean, and watch what you use down there
Make sure you shower at least every other day with a good soap. As you come into puberty, avoid using soaps with strong fragrances in your bikini area, as this could lead to pH imbalances or yeast infections.