R U Thinking?

Feel like you don’t know yourself anymore?

Your voice is deeper, your body is bigger and there’s hair sprouting out everywhere – and that’s before we get to the itchy balls and uncontrollable erections. Welcome to puberty!

What’s normal?
Everyone goes through puberty, but it starts when your body’s ready and every lad grows at his own pace. If it hasn’t started yet, don’t panic – every guy goes through it, but it’s different for everyone.

Mind in a muddle?
So many changes can get your mind in a mess. It’s not unusual to feel confused and worried. Talking to someone you can trust, in confidence, can really help.

Is this really puberty?

There are loads of signs that puberty has started, and every lad is different. Here are some of the most common changes to look out for:

Bigger man-bits: Your testicles and penis get bigger. They may itch or feel uncomfortable as they grow.

Happy hormones: Your body produces more sex hormones, so you might get unexpected erections and think about sex all the time. The hormones can also make you sweaty and spotty.

Say hello to sperm: You start producing sperm and may have wet dreams.

Hairy happenings: Hair grows anywhere from armpits, legs and arms, to your face, chest and around your penis.

Beefy body: Your body grows bigger and may get more muscly.

Crazy emotions: With all the changes going on, it’s no wonder your emotions go a bit wild.

Read More: 
Boys' bodies 

Getting together, starting to talk

You’re seeing someone - but where does the relationship go now? Do you have to have sex?

There’s no rush
There’s tons of pressure, often from girlfriends, to have sex once you’re going out - but top relationships start with friendship and build-up from there.

Talk about it
It might take weeks, months or even years before you’re both ready for sex. Take it slow and think about your feelings, as well as hers – you should never rush or push each other into it. Try talking about the relationship – communicating helps you know the right time and exactly how she feels, instead of guessing.

Read More: 
Knowing if the time is right

I’ve started fancying other lads…

Going through puberty, you experience tons of emotions and sexual feelings. It’s totally normal to think about boys in a sexual way, as well as girls. For some lads, it’s a phase and they decide later they like girls best. Others do turn out to be gay or bisexual – which is also normal.

Why am I gay?
You don’t choose your sexuality - it chooses you. No one knows what makes people gay, lesbian, bisexual or straight, but its part of everyday life.

Bullied for being gay
Bullying can take many forms from stares, looks and whispers, to threats and other violence. If you’re being bullied because you’re gay, it is important to tell someone you trust. This could be a teacher, a friend or your parents.

Talking about it  
Talking to someone understanding will always help if you have worries or questions, as this will give you support and confidence.