Puberty is defined as the time when the body experiences several changes. These changes follow one another over several years and come in several stages.
Puberty will come long before menstruation. However, it is important to note that the age at which puberty or the first menstruation occurs is different for everybody.
Puberty comes from the Latin puber which means hair.
Let us take this opportunity to remind ourselves that the choice to shave belongs to the ones that want to. It is also up to those who want to keep their hair to do so, regardless of their gender, outfit or favourite activities.
Puberty is triggered by hormones that are made in the brain and ovaries. It usually appears between the ages of 8 and 13 years. It will manifest itself first by the formation of the breasts. This will be seen by swelling around the nipples first of all. And, about 2 years after this change, the first menses will appear.
In addition, over the years, you may notice several physical changes including:
- The appearance of hair (to the genitals, armpits, legs)
- Growth in height (8 cm/year)
- More curves on your body at the hips or thighs
- More oily pimples and hair
- Vaginal discharge
- More sweating, etc.
But also, emotional or social changes could happen such as:
- Changes in mood
- Thoughts or feelings of a sexual nature,
- The need to be loved and to belong to a group
- Feelings of confusion
- The fact of wanting more autonomy
- Concern for its future, etc.
So, as you can see, puberty is a complex and intense phenomenon, but it is interesting! Knowing how to recognize the signs will allow you to better manage the changes!
And don’t forget that if you feel lost, sad, stressed, or simply have doubts, it’s important to talk to people you trust for support and advice.
References
Cleveland Clinic. The Menstrual Cycle—Women’s Health Problems. Retrieved from https://www.merckmanuals.com/fr-ca/accueil/probl%C3%A8mes-de-sant%C3%A9-de-la-femme/biologie-de-l%E2%80%99appareil-g%C3%A9nital-f%C3%A9minin/le-cycle-menstruel
Government of Quebec. Puberty. Retrieved from https://publications.msss.gouv.qc.ca/msss/fichiers/mosaik/bulletins/15-314-09W_Bulletin9.pdf
https://teachingsexualhealth.ca/app/uploads/sites/4/Grade-7-LP1-Puberty-Review-French-Oct29.pdf
Care of our children. Growing up: Information for girls about puberty. (2018). Retrieved from https://soinsdenosenfants.cps.ca/handouts/behavior-and-development/information_for_girls_about_puberty