Eyes Wide Open
My Changing Body
The hormonal changes that influence our development and growth lead to physical and emotional changes. The changing body can present a great challenge for young women and may even be a factor in them being bullied. From the breast buds, to the vaginal discharge, to the monthly periods here’s a look at what is behind all these changes.
Puberty occurs when your body changes becoming more like an adult. It may start as early as 8 years old or as late as 13 years old. How does puberty begin? It starts when your brain sends messages to certain parts of the body telling them to start growing and changing. The name given to these messages are hormones. Hormones are chemicals that control our body functions.
Hormones cause the following changes with puberty:
Growing taller and gaining weight
Hips may get wider
Breasts grow
Hair growth under the armpits
Hair growth on vulva
Change in body odor
Pimples, acne
First period
Knowing what to expect helps you to prepare for these changes. There will be less of a shock as you notice the breast growth, pubic and armpit hair growth, the growth spurt with the period close behind. Embrace your changing body and the miraculous journey it will take you on.
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