Puberty: The Magical (and Slightly Awkward) Journey Ahead!
Going through Puberty:
So… your body’s starting to change. Maybe your jeans feel a little tighter in weird places. Maybe you're crying during sad animal videos (same, honestly). Or maybe you just want to know what’s really going on because people keep saying, “You’re growing up!” and you're like, “Okay, but what does that mean exactly?!”
Welcome to puberty — the magical (and occasionally weird) journey of growing from a girl into a young woman! Don’t worry — you’re not alone. Every girl goes through it, and even though it can feel confusing, it’s also kind of awesome. Let’s break it down together 💖
🌸 1. Boobs, Bras, and Body Changes
Yep, the chest area is growing — and it might feel tender or itchy sometimes. You will notice that the ends of your breasts are beginning to darken in color. Totally normal! Everyone grows at their own pace (so no comparing!). You might need your first bra soon. Don’t panic — think of it as cute armor.
Your hips might get wider, your legs might get longer, and suddenly you trip over your own feet. The bones in your face will grow in size, making your face look more like an adult. Hair will grow between your thighs (this area is called the pubic area), and hair will also grow in your underarms. Your body will grow in weight as well, and you will develop more fat on your bum. Sometimes you may notice a small amount of whitish fluid coming out of your private parts. This is one way that your vagina will self-clean itself of impurities. Again: totally normal. You’re transforming like a butterfly, and butterflies are clumsy at first, too. 🦋
🧼 2. Sweat Happens
You might notice a new, uh… smell. That’s your body learning how to sweat in grown-up ways. Time to welcome deodorant into your life! Also, showering more often will help you feel fresh and confident.
Underarm odor and Vagina odor come along with the body changes of puberty and will be a problem through your adult years. Taking regular showers and baths is a must to control body odors. But!- you shouldn’t wash your hair every day - due to the risk of drying and causing hair breakage.
In the teen years, the sweat glands are working overtime. The natural oils in the skin cause the body to sweat more often. Using antiperspirant deodorants can help underarm odors, so be sure to use them every time after you take a shower or bath.
In a quick pinch if you can’t shower, you can wash up! (wash up is using a soapy towel or body wipes on the parts of your body that smells and is dirty). When washing, start with your face and work your way down your body, so you don’t get acne from a dirty towel.
💌 3. Hello, Periods!
It’s the big one: your period. When it comes, it might feel like a surprise party… but with less cake. It’s just your body’s way of saying, “Hey, you’re healthy and growing!”
You might feel crampy, moody, or just blah. That’s normal. Stock up on pads (or ask an adult about options), keep a mini emergency kit in your backpack, and remember: it gets easier with time.
Also, you can totally still swim, dance, or eat donuts during your period. Periods don’t cancel fun. There is a whole article dedicated to periods on this website for you to check out!
🤯 4. Mood Swings & Emotions
One minute you’re laughing, the next you’re crying because your pencil broke. Hormones are like tiny drama queens living inside you, but it helps to talk about it — with friends, parents, or even your dog. Emotions are valid, and so are you.
👑 5. You Are Uniquely You
Everyone goes through puberty differently. Some start earlier, some later. Some get acne, some don’t. Some feel super excited, others just feel weird. However it looks for you — that’s the right way.
You are not broken. You are not weird. You are growing. You are strong. You are awesome.
💖 Final Thought: You've Got This!
Puberty is kind of like leveling up in a video game. There are new challenges, sure — but also new powers (like confidence, creativity, and independence). Don’t be afraid to ask questions, laugh at the awkward moments, and give yourself lots of kindness.
You're doing amazing, and the best is yet to come.
Hugs, glitter, and girl power 💫
