Prolusory Introduction to Girls' Puberty

Everyone goes through puberty. Puberty is the term for what a young person experiences when they change from a child into a grown-up. This change happens so girls and boys can reproduce (make babies). People start and end puberty at different times, and not every girl's experience is the same.

Puberty can begin in girls anywhere from age 8 to 13. Puberty usually ends for girls by age 14 to 16.

Some girls will grow hair on certain parts of their body at different times, some earlier and others later.

Girls will also grow larger breasts at different times, some earlier and others later.

If you have questions about puberty, this website is a good place to start, but you can definitely and should ask a trusted adult, such as your mom, female guardian, aunt, coach, school counselor, or doctor.

It's normal for girls to be very curious about and have many questions about sex, for example, as they become more interested in it during puberty. Don't think any questions you have are ridiculous or inappropriate. The adults in your life have all been through puberty and can help answer your questions or help you find the answers.

Many of the changes you experience will make you feel good and even quite awesome, while others might make you feel embarrassed, uncomfortable, or uneasy. Just keep in mind that it is normal to have these feelings growing up. This time of your life can be stressful. Remember to take pride in becoming a young woman, and don't forget to enjoy your time as a young person.Some changes in puberty affect a girl's body, and others involve her emotions. A girl’s feelings change from what she felt as a child, and her relationships with her buddies and loved ones change, too.

These changes happen because the girl's body makes estrogen (a hormone). In boys, the body makes testosterone (a hormone).

Girls’ bodies also make some testosterone, and boys’ bodies also make some estrogen.

Girls might have questions about what they and their peers are experiencing. It is a good idea to visit reputable websites, but on some online forums, the advice a girl might receive may not be appropriate or the best advice.

For most people, puberty is the most interesting and often the most challenging time of their life. It can be fun at times. Puberty can be confounding (confusing, amazing, frustrating) to young people experiencing it.

During puberty, girls experience many changes, and learning from this website can make puberty less confusing and awkward; it can help young and adolescent girls transition into adulthood to become successful, productive adults.

Your fun, educational journey begins — right now.