Puberty is the condition when nature works to changes kids into grown-ups. Both boys and girls undergo stages of puberty as part of the development of the reproductive organs. However, girls experience puberty at earlier age than boys do. Puberty is caused by reproductive hormones. The female hormone, estrogen, is the main hormone that triggers these changes in girls during this stage.
Puberty brings about changes in a girl's height and weight. At age nine, most girls reach 17% to 18% of their adult height. They may even reach their peak height six months before they even have their first menstrual period. More body fat is stored in the upper arms, thighs, and lower back. The hips become wider and rounder and the waist becomes narrower. This gives a more feminine shape to a girl's body.
Breasts start to develop during puberty. Some girls get to experience this before age nine while some others encounter breast development a little later than usual. The development starts as small, and often painful, buds under the nipple. It can take up to five years before the breasts reach their maximum size and shape.
There is also an increase in hair growth during puberty. Hair becomes more visible on the arms and legs and the armpits. Pubic hair also starts to grow. It is straight and fine at the beginning. At age twelve to thirteen, pubic hair starts to become coarser and darker but may not cover the entire area yet.
Increased perspiration is noticed during puberty and unpleasant body odor may be smelled, especially in the armpits. This change may still be blamed on hormones and genes. The type of food that is eaten may also affect the body's chemical composition. Use of deodorants is advised.
Some girls develop acne on the face and back during puberty, as the oil glands become active at this stage. Some girls have small acne that are almost unnoticeable, while other have bigger blemishes. A dermatologist may help in controlling acne to prevent facial scars.
The menstrual period starts during puberty. The time may not be the same for all girls but, on the average, it may occur between the ages of twelve and thirteen. During a menstrual period, vaginal bleeding is experienced for around two to three days. Some girls may experience discomfort and menstrual cramps. Vaginal bleeding happens when the developed egg cell does not get fertilized by a sperm cell. This repeats every month unless the woman becomes pregnant.
Mood swings occur, especially before the menstrual period. Girls feel irritability, anxiety, and dietary cravings. This is known as premenstrual syndrome. These feelings go away eventually when vaginal bleedings starts.
Puberty is a part of every one's growth, although there is no standard age when it happens. Girls should be well informed about what they will undergo so they can prepare themselves and anticipate the changes so as to avoid possible frustrations.
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