Puberty is the term used to describe when a person's body begins to develop and change as they move from being a kid to adult. Puberty is different for everyone - you may notice some of these changes right now and others you may never experience.
Puberty is different for boys and girls.
Male Puberty (back to top)
Many changes take place in males as they grow, especially in puberty. This includes changes in body, voice, skin, body odour, and hair growth. Males begin puberty between ages 9 and 14. Each male is unique, and may progress through these changes differently.
Penis and Testicles
As you grow, you will notice that your testicles and penis become larger. This usually marks the beginning of puberty.
Body hair
Pubic hair usually appears on the genitals. This is followed by underarm, facial, and chest hair. Some people choose to remove their body hair, but it is not necessary.
Voice
The larynx in your throat is what gives you your voice. During puberty, your larynx will grow, and it might stick out in the neck area; this is called the Adam's apple. As the larynx grows, it deepens the voice. It's normal to experience changes in your voice.
Skin
Due to hormonal changes, many teenagers will notice their skin may become oily,and pimples start to appear on the face and body. If your have concerns about your skin, see your family care provider.
Sweat and Body Odour
The body's sweat glands become more active during puberty, which can mean an increase in body odour. This is normal and can usually be resolved by using antiperspirant.
Ejaculation
About a year after the penis starts to grow, most boys will experience their first ejaculation. This is a release of sperm and other liquids from inside the male reproductive tract that comes out through the penis. This is perfectly natural and is a part of going through puberty.
Female Puberty (back to top)
Hormonal changes cause sexual and other physical changes during puberty. Females experience puberty over time but their changes usually begin before males of the same age. Each female is unique and may progress through these changes differently.
Breasts
The initial puberty change is the development of breast tissue. At first, you will notice small raised bumps behind the nipple, and the bumps will continue to grow and take shape as breasts. The areola (the circle of different coloured skin around the nipple) also increases in size. One breast may develop before the other; this is completely normal. Breasts can be all shapes and sizes.
Skin
Due to hormonal changes, many youth will notice their skin may become oily, and pimples start to appear on the face and body. If you have concerns about your skin, see your primary care provider.
Vaginal discharge
As you go through puberty, you will start to produce white or clear odourless vaginal discharge. This is normal, and it helps to clean and moisten your vagina. If you experience itching, burning, or notice a strong odour, or a change in colour (such as brown, gray, or green), these may be signs of an infection. See your primary care provider for screening.
Body hair
Pubic hair usually appears on the genitals. This is followed by underarm and leg hair. Some people choose to remove their body hair, but it is not necessary
Sweat and body odour
The body's sweat glands become more active during puberty, which can mean an increase in body odour. Some people choose to use products to mask body odour.
Periods (Menstruation)
Menstruation is the part of the hormonal cycle when the uterus sheds its lining, and the tissues and blood leave the body through the vagina. The medical term for getting your period is menstruation or "menses." Your hormone system controls your menstrual cycle. The changes in your body are brought on by changes in the levels of hormones that are circulating through your system. Periods usually begin anytime after the age of 10 and last until menopause. If you haven't had a period by age 15 visit your family care provider for a check-up. Once a female starts having periods, it may take the body some time to adjust. Your periods may be unpredictable and irregular during the first few years, then should settle into a schedule and your periods will become more regular. If you have concerns about your period, see your primary care provider.
The first day of a menstrual cycle is said to be the first day of menstruation. The last day of the cycle is the last day before the next period starts. The whole menstrual-ovulation cycle usually takes about 1 month from one period to the next. The average cycle can range on average from 23 - 35 days. Each period usually lasts between 2 to 8days. Everyone's period is different.
For information on the menstrual cycle, visit yourperiod.ca
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