All over the place
Your boobs appeared from nowhere, periods are ruining your life and you’ve got hair in places you don’t even wanna think about. On top of all the scary stuff that’s hit your bod, you’re getting a major crush on the most unlikely lad in your year! This is what growing up is all about…
What happened to my body?
Your boobs are sore and getting bigger and your periods may have started – everyone goes through it, but puberty is a tough time.
Is this normal?
Puberty usually happens between 9-14, but every girl is different. Your boobs may grow fast or slow, and you might have your first period and not have another for ages. There’s no such thing as ‘normal’ so don’t panic if your experience is different.
It’s freaking me out!
You’re not the first girl to feel scared or confused during puberty, try talking to someone you trust. You can also find out more about puberty right here.
Am I going through puberty?
Every girl goes through puberty and it happens when our bodies are ready.
All these symptoms are normal:
Bigger boobs, curvy body: Putting on a bit of weight as your figure gets more shapely is normal.
Growing up: You’ll get taller … fast! Your legs and arms might grow fastest, but everything levels out.
Hairy Mary: Hair grows under your arms and around your vagina. Your vagina may also look different and produce discharge, and your periods will probably start soon. It shouldn’t be smelly and it’s all completely normal!
Looking good: Puberty does have downsides – extra hormones can make you sweaty or cause acne, but as long as you take care with personal hygiene you can still look and feel healthy.
On the inside: You might have mood swings and feel emotional but everything will settle down eventually. Whenever you’re stressed or scared, try talking to someone you trust.
Read more:
Girls' bodies
Talking to your boyfriend
Once you start a relationship you might wonder where it’s going - lots of girls worry that it has to lead to sex.
Take it slowly
You might feel pressured, often by friends or your boyfriend, to have sex - but good relationships start with friendship and trust builds from there.
Start talking
It might take weeks, months or even years before you’re both ready for sex. It should always be a joint decision, so you shouldn’t pressure each other at all. Try talking once you trust him, so you’re not left guessing how each other feels.
Read more:
What makes a good relationship great?
What if I fancy other girls?
When you’re going through puberty, it’s normal to have crushes on anyone and everyone, including other girls. It doesn’t necessarily mean you’re gay.
Could it mean I’m gay?
Some people decide they prefer other girls full stop. There’s no right or wrong. Everyone has the right to be with someone they like. And if your mates are true friends, it shouldn’t matter.
Should I tell anyone?
If there are friends you really trust they could offer support. Or if it’s easier to talk to someone you don't know there are all kinds of places you can call or visit for confidential advice or a chat.
I think I’m gay
Deciding you’re a lesbian can be difficult for you and other people to accept – but being gay is part of every day life.
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 normal and you deserve to be with someone you love, whoever that is.
Bullied for being a lesbian
Bullying can take many forms from stares, looks and whispers, to threats and other violence. If you’re bullied for being a lesbian, it’s important to tell someone you can trust.
Talking about it
Talking to someone understanding will always help if you have worries or questions, as this will give you support and confidence.
A girl's point of view
There’s nothing wrong with being a slow or early starter – you won’t develop at exactly the same speed as your mates.
Most girls figure out what they think about themselves and the world during puberty – but you’re still you, so don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
