Puberty 101: The Awesome (and Sometimes Awkward) Changes

Hey yall! Have you ever wondered why your body is starting to change? Welcome to puberty, the time when your body goes through all kinds of cool changes to turn you into an adult. Don’t worry—it happens to everyone, and we’re here to explain it in a fun and easy way!

Let’s dive in and learn about the different ways puberty affects each gender.

What Is Puberty Anyway?

First things first: puberty is when your body starts to grow and change. It usually starts sometime between ages 8 and 14, but everyone is different! These changes happen because your body starts releasing hormones—the little messengers that tell your body, “Okay, it’s time to grow!” There are some changes that happens to everyone but there are some differences depending on whether someone is assigned male or female at birth.

Puberty for Girls or people Assigned Female at Birth (Periods and More)

Here are some things that usually happen during puberty:

Breasts Begin to Grow: One of the first signs of puberty for people AFAB is breast development. Don’t worry if one breast starts growing before the other—that’s totally normal!

Periods: You’ll eventually start getting your period, which is part of your menstrual cycle. This happens once a month when your body releases an egg and then sheds the lining of your uterus. You’ll get used to it in no time, and there are lots of products like pads, tampons, and menstrual cups to help manage it.

Body Hair: Hair will start growing in new places, like under your arms and in your pubic area (the area between your legs). Some people also grow more hair on their legs.

Hips Get Wider: Your body may change shape, with your hips getting a bit wider and more curves appearing.

Fun fact: Every person's period and body development happen at their own pace. Some girls start early, and others later. It’s all normal!

Puberty for Boys or people Assigned Male at Birth (Growth Spurts and Voice Cracks)

Here’s what to expect when puberty hits:

Voice Changes: One of the most noticeable changes is your voice getting deeper. It doesn’t happen all at once, though—you might experience some funny voice cracks along the way. Don’t worry, it’s just your voice adjusting!

Growth Spurts: You might suddenly shoot up in height, sometimes almost overnight! Your feet, hands, and arms might grow faster at first, but eventually, everything will even out.

Body Hair: You will start growing hair in new places too—underarms, on your face (get ready for a mustache or beard!), and in the pubic area.

Testicles and Penis Growth: You’ll notice changes in your testicles and penis as they grow larger during puberty. It’s all part of the process!

Erections: You might start having erections more often, which is when the penis becomes hard. Sometimes they happen for no reason at all—it’s totally normal!

Fun fact: People AMAB usually hit their growth spurt a little later than people AMAB, so if you’re still waiting, don’t worry—it’ll happen soon enough!

Puberty for Everyone (The Stuff We All Experience!)

No matter if you’re a girl or a boy, there are some things that happen to everyone during puberty:

Pimples: Hormones can make your skin a little oily, which might cause acne (pimples or zits). Washing your face regularly can help, but don’t stress if you get a few pimples—everyone does!

Sweat and Body Odor: Puberty makes your sweat glands more active, so you might start noticing body odor. It’s nothing a little deodorant can’t fix!

Emotions Everywhere!: Thanks to hormones, your emotions might feel like they’re on a rollercoaster. One minute you’re happy, the next you’re annoyed—and that’s okay! Learning how to handle your emotions is a big part of growing up.

It’s All About Timing (Everyone Grows at Their Own Pace)

One of the most important things to remember about puberty is that everyone grows at their own pace. Some girls might start puberty as early as 8, and some boys might not hit their growth spurt until they’re 15. And that’s totally normal!

There’s no rush to grow up, and it’s perfectly fine if your friends start experiencing changes before or after you do. Puberty is different for everyone!

Body Positivity: Love Your Growing Self!

Puberty can feel a little awkward at times, but remember—it’s all part of becoming YOU. Everyone’s body changes in different ways, and that’s what makes us all unique and awesome. Whether you’re growing taller, getting curves, or experiencing new emotions, embrace the journey and love your growing body!

In Summary: Puberty Is Pretty Cool!

Puberty is an amazing time when your body starts to change and grow. These changes are helping you grow into the incredible person you’re meant to be. It might feel weird sometimes, but just remember—everyone goes through it, and it’s all part of the adventure of growing up!

Got questions? That’s great! Asking questions is the best way to learn about your body and understand what’s happening.