Puberty

As children transition to adults, the body goes through several physical and emotional changes.

Everyone goes through these changes differently, so you may recognize some of these changes happening now, and others may not happen at all. Puberty is different for everyone – each of our bodies takes its own natural course.

Overview
Changes to the Male Body
Changes to the Female Body

Overview

These changes can start as early as 10 years old, or occur when you’re 15 years old, or sometimes hardly at all. Many of these changes are caused by hormones, special signalling chemicals that are produced by glands in our bodies and that give directions to our cells to do particular things.

All of the changes happening to your body during puberty can have an impact your emotions. You might feel happy one moment and completely sad or angry the next. These kinds of mood swings are normal during adolescence.

It’s important to look at what’s making you feel the way you do and figure out what you can do to make yourself feel better. If your feelings are overwhelming you, it can help to talk about it with someone you trust.

If a boy’s voice hasn’t deepened by late adolescence, or if a girl hasn’t started menstruating by late adolescence, this may be indicative of a hormonal imbalance. It’s best to see a doctor.

Changes to the Male Body

Growth and shape

Your body is growing and sometimes it might grow quickly in a short time. All of sudden you might be much taller and find that your clothes don’t fit anymore. During puberty you will probably grow about 4 inches per year. Most of the growth spurt happens towards the end of puberty. You will also notice other changes to your body shape, such as more muscle development and larger shoulders. Remember that everyone grows at their own pace.

Penis and Testicles

As you transition to an adult, you will notice growth of your testicles, as well as enlargement of your penis. This usually marks the beginning of puberty.

Body hair

Pubic hair usually appears on the genitals after the growth of the penis and testicles. After that, underarm hair begins to grow, and later on, hair might start to grow on the face and chest as well. Some people choose to remove body hair. This is a personal choice, but is not necessary.

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Voice

The larynx is in your throat and 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. When the larynx grows, it will cause a deepening of the voice. This usually happens in the beginning of puberty. It’s normal to experience changes in your voice or notice your voice breaking at times.

Skin

Many teenagers will notice that as they go through puberty their skin becomes oily and pimples start to appear on the face and body. This is due to hormonal changes.

Ejaculation

About a year after the penis starts growing, most boys will experience their first ejaculation, a release of sperm and other liquids from inside the male reproductive tract that comes out through the penis. This can sometimes be scary or worrisome, but it is perfectly natural and is a part of going through puberty.

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 a deodorant.

Changes to the Female Body

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Growth and shape

Your body is growing and sometimes it might grow quickly in a short time. It is normal to experience a growth spurt as part of puberty. This will usually happen before you get your first period. You will also notice other changes to your body shape, such as more curves or wider hips.

Breasts

Breast development usually marks the beginning of the puberty. At first, you will notice small raised bumps behind the nipple, and the bumps will continue to grow and take shape as breasts. One breast may develop before the other; this is completely normal. Fully developed breasts come in all shapes and sizes. Depending on the size of your breasts, you may feel the need to wear a bra to support them, especially when you exercise.

Skin

Many teenagers will notice that as they go through puberty their skin becomes oily and pimples start to appear on the face and body. This is due to hormonal changes.

Vaginal discharge

As you go through puberty, your body will start to produce a whitish vaginal discharge. It 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. It’s best to see a doctor to have this looked at.

Body hair

Pubic hair usually starts to appear on the genitals after the breasts start growing. You will also notice hair growing in the underarms and on the legs. Some people choose to remove body hair. This is a personal choice, but is not necessary.

Periods

It’s normal to be nervous or afraid, especially if you don’t know what to expect, but starting your period (also referred to as menstruation) is a natural and normal part of female puberty. Learn more about your period.

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 a deodorant.