What is puberty?
\nPuberty is the time when your body changes and becomes more like an adult.<\/p>\n
When does puberty start?
\nIt is normal for changes to start as early as 8 years old or as late as 13 years old. Puberty starts when your brain sends signals to certain parts of the body to start growing and changing. These signals are called hormones. Hormones are chemicals that control body functions.<\/p>\n
What changes occur during puberty?
\nDuring puberty, hormones cause the following changes:<\/p>\n
You grow taller and gain weight.
\nYour hips may get wider.
\nYour breasts grow.
\nYou grow hair under your arms and around the vulva.
\nYour body odor may change.
\nYou may get acne or pimples.
\nYou get your first menstrual period (also called menstruation).
\nHow will my breasts change?
\nAs your breasts start to change, the darker areas around the nipples (called the areolas) may look swollen. The breasts also grow rounder and fuller. One breast may seem a little larger than the other. They may feel sore at times. This is all normal.<\/p>\n
What is menstruation?
\nBeginning in puberty, every month, your body will prepare for a possible pregnancy. Hormones signal the ovaries to release an egg each month. The egg moves into one of the fallopian tubes. At the same time, the lining of the uterus begins to grow and thicken. If the egg is not fertilized by a man\u2019s sperm, pregnancy does not occur. The lining breaks down and flows out of the body through the vagina. This is called menstruation, the menstrual period, or just your “period.”<\/p>\n
When does menstruation begin?
\nMost girls in the United States start between the ages of 12 years and 14 years, but some start earlier or later.<\/p>\n
How long do menstrual periods last?
\nPeriods usually last between 2 days and 7 days. They normally come every 21\u201345 days. They often are not regular at first. You may miss a period. You may have two periods in 1 month. This is normal. It can take about 6 years after your first period for your body to get on a regular cycle. Keep in mind that if you have had sexual intercourse, a missed period can be a sign that you are pregnant.<\/p>\n
How can I prepare for my menstrual period?
\nIt is best to be prepared for your period, even if you have not started yet. Have pads or tampons ready at home and carry them with you to school.<\/p>\n
How do pads and tampons work?
\nPads attach to the inside of your underwear. They absorb the blood as it leaves the vagina. Tampons are inserted into the vagina. They catch the blood before it leaves the body.<\/p>\n
How often should I change my pad or tampon?
\nYou should change your pad or tampon at least every 4\u20138 hours. On the first days of your period, you may need to change it more often because your flow may be heavier.<\/p>\n
Do menstrual periods cause discomfort?
\nSome girls have cramps (tightness and pain) in the lower abdomen and back at the start of their periods. Some girls get headaches or feel dizzy. Some get diarrhea.<\/p>\n
How can I ease cramps?
\nTo help ease cramps, you can try the following:<\/p>\n
Take ibuprofen or naproxen sodium (if you do not have an allergy to aspirin or severe asthma).
\nExercise.
\nPlace a heating pad on your abdomen or lower back.
\nWhat problems with my menstrual period should I see my doctor about?
\nTalk to your doctor or your parents about your period for any of these reasons:<\/p>\n
You are 15 years old and have not had a period.
\nYour periods were regular each month and then they stopped being regular.
\nYour period comes more often than every 21 days or less often than every 45 days.
\nYour periods come 90 days apart (even if that happens only once).
\nYour periods last more than 7 days.
\nYour periods are so heavy that you have to change pads or tampons often (more than once every 1\u20132 hours).
\nYou have bad cramps that keep you from doing your regular activities and they are not helped by pain relievers.
\nWhen should I begin seeing an obstetrician\u2013gynecologist?
\nAn obstetrician\u2013gynecologist is a doctor who specializes in the health care of women. Girls should have their first gynecologic visit between the ages of 13 years and 15 years. The first visit may be just a talk between you and your doctor. You can find out what to expect at future visits and get information about how to stay healthy. You can ask questions about your body, growing up, and sex.<\/p>\n
What is acne?
\nAcne is caused by overactive glands in the skin. They make a natural oil called sebum. During puberty, these glands make extra sebum that can clog the pores in your skin.<\/p>\n
What can I do if I get acne?
\nWash your face often with water and mild cleanser to help get rid of the extra sebum. This will help reduce pimples and acne. Avoid products that dry or irritate your skin. Do not scrub or pick at your skin. If you have concerns about acne or pimples, some medications can help. Talk to your doctor about your concerns.<\/p>\n
Source: ACOG<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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