Girls and puberty

The bodies of girls and young women change a great deal between the ages of about 9 and 16 as they go through puberty.

Changes to your body will happen over time and the speed of change will be different for each person. It's normal for people to start developing at different times so try not to compare yourself to other people the whole time. You can expect the following to happen:

  • you grow taller;
  • your nipples and breasts start to swell and fill out;
  • your body shape grows more rounded and curvy with a slim waist and broader hips;
  • hair grows under your arms, on your legs and genitals;
  • you may get spots;
  • the sweat glands are more active under arms and between legs;
  • your hair may get more greasy;
  • your periods start.

It's normal to begin to have a slight clear or milky discharge from the vagina, which keeps the vagina healthy. The amount of discharge can vary from day to day.

If you have any questions about puberty or you are worried about something you can also speak to an Ask Brook advisor on 0808 802 1234. Your call will be free and confidential which means that no one will be told about it.


 

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