We all go through loads of changes emotionally and physically as we grow up and puberty can be a very scary though exciting time. Sexual development happens anytime between 10-18 years old, but usually in our early teens. It does not make any difference what age you start developing it will happen to everyone at some point.

Our bodies will change in all sorts of different ways:

• Getting taller and curvier
• Joints may be painful
• Nipples become more sensitive
• Breasts grow
• Genitalia get bigger
• Periods will start
• Weight gain
• Spots and black heads may develop
• Start to get interested in people you are attracted to
• Hair will develop on different parts of the body.

All of these changes are very normal and can happen in no particular order.

Periods

The menstrual cycle is from the first day of your period until the day before your next period starts. This varies between 28-34 days. This is not anything to worry about. When you first start your periods they are not always regular and again this can be normal. The cycle is controlled by hormones not us, so we just have to be patient until it all gets into a routine.
The changes in hormones can change your moods. You may feel tired, moody and tearful just before your period is due and energetic, sexy and happy when you ovulate (in the middle of your cycle). Just before your period your breasts may grow and feel tender and you may develop some spots. You may also feel like you have some cramping and pain in your lower stomach area. You can help this by exercising and eating a diet low in sugar and salt and high in fresh fruits and vegetables. You can ease the pain with hot water bottles, painkillers and rest.
You can use tampons or sanitary pads. The choice is yours and people prefer to use different methods. For example you can’t swim with a sanitary pad. Most people try out the different methods and see what suits them.

Sweating

As we develop we start to sweat more as well. Sometimes this can be quite embarrassing if we smell and so need to keep this under control. It is advisable to shower or bath daily, especially after playing sports or sweating a lot, like on a hot day. It is also a good idea to find a good deodorant to use.

Acne/Spots

They include whiteheads, blackheads, red bumps (pimples), and bumps that are filled with pus (cysts).Your skin is covered with tiny holes (pores) that contain oil that moisturise the skin. Sometimes these pores get clogged up and can cause bacteria that develop spots. As we develop, our hormones become more active and our skin can find it hard to cope.
To help prevent all types of spots make sure you:
• properly wash your face twice a day
• have a spot cream for when spots develop
• make sure your hair is clean
• wash caps regularly so they don’t cause spots on the hair line.
• Try not to touch your face.
• Don't pick, squeeze, or pop spots.

Breasts

As girls develop so do their breasts. Some girls are very excited by this and others dread it. Some girls want really large breasts and others prefer small ones. Most girls have mixed feelings about them and are not quite sure why they have breasts and what to do about them. Boys don't have breasts, but they might just be curious about them.

Once breasts begin to develop it is an idea to look into getting a bra, especially for sports or exercising. Bra’s protect the breast as well as support them. There are different types of bras that you can buy and the best idea is to go to a good bra shop and get measured up and they will advise you. Don’t worry, it is their job to measure breasts and they see all different sizes and shapes every day.

Breasts are just one part of a girl growing up. If you are feeling uncomfortable and not sure who to turn to, sit down and have a chat with your mother. Mothers have been through the same changes when they were growing up and they are there for you, to support you.