A Guide to Puberty
Growing and Changing Is a Normal Part of Life
Puberty is the time when your body begins changing from a child’s body into an adult body. Everyone goes through puberty, but when it starts, how quickly changes happen, and what those changes look like can be different for everyone.
You might notice changes in your body, your emotions, or even the way you think about yourself and other people. Having questions is completely normal.
Understanding what’s happening can help you feel more prepared and confident as you grow.
What Happens During Puberty?
Puberty usually happens gradually over several years. Your body produces hormones that cause physical and emotional changes.
Everyone may experience:
Growing taller
Changes in body shape
More body hair
Hair growing under the arms and around the genitals
Increased sweating and body odor
Oilier skin or acne
Changes in emotions or moods
New thoughts or feelings about friendships and relationships
Some changes will depend on your body.
Changes in Female Bodies
During puberty, you may notice:
Breast development
Hips becoming wider
Hair growing under your arms and around the genitals
Vaginal discharge
Menstruation, also called a period
Changes in Male Bodies
During puberty, you may notice:
Growth of the penis and testicles
Voice becoming deeper
Shoulders becoming broader
Facial, underarm, and pubic hair
Erections
Ejaculation and wet dreams
These changes don’t happen in the same order or at the same age for everyone.
Everyone Develops at Their Own Pace
It can be easy to compare yourself with friends or classmates, especially during puberty.
Some people develop earlier. Others develop later. Neither means something is wrong.
Bodies come in different shapes, sizes, heights, and stages of development. Try to give yourself, and other people, space to grow without teasing, commenting on, or comparing bodies.
What About Periods?
Menstruation, commonly called a period, is a normal part of puberty for many people with female reproductive systems.
During a period, blood and tissue leave the uterus through the vagina. Periods usually happen about once a month, although they can be irregular when they first begin.
Period products include:
Pads
Tampons
Menstrual cups
Period underwear
If you’re unsure how to use a period product, ask a parent, caregiver, school nurse, healthcare provider, or another safe adult.
Keeping an extra period product in your backpack or locker can also help you feel prepared.
What Are Erections and Wet Dreams?
Erections and wet dreams are normal parts of puberty for many people with male reproductive systems.
An erection happens when the penis becomes firm because more blood flows into it. Erections can happen for many reasons and sometimes happen without an obvious reason.
A wet dream is ejaculation that happens while someone is sleeping. It is a normal body response during puberty.
Neither is something to be embarrassed about.
Puberty Can Affect Your Emotions, Too
Puberty isn’t only about physical changes.
Hormonal changes, school, friendships, family relationships, and growing responsibilities can sometimes make emotions feel stronger.
You might feel:
Happy or excited
Irritated or frustrated
Embarrassed or self-conscious
More independent
Worried about fitting in
Interested in new friendships or relationships
Finding healthy ways to handle emotions, such as talking to someone you trust, being physically active, getting enough sleep, or taking time to relax—can help.
Respect Your Body and Other People’s Bodies
As bodies change, respecting personal boundaries becomes even more important.
Remember:
Your body belongs to you.
You can set boundaries about personal space and touch.
Other people have the right to set boundaries, too.
Don’t tease or make comments about someone else’s body or development.
Never take or share private pictures of another person without permission.
Tell a safe adult if someone’s behavior makes you uncomfortable or unsafe.
Questions Are Normal
You might hear things about puberty from friends, social media, videos, or the internet that aren’t accurate.
When you have questions, look for reliable information or talk with someone you trust.
A safe adult might be:
Parent or caregiver
Healthcare provider
School nurse
Teacher
School counselor
Family member
Taking Care of Your Changing Body
As you go through puberty, your body changes, and the way you take care of it may need to change, too.
You may sweat more, notice new body odors, develop oilier skin or hair, or experience acne. These changes are normal.
Building good personal hygiene habits can help you stay healthy, feel comfortable, and take care of your changing body.
Your Daily Hygiene Basics
Everyone’s routine may look a little different, but there are a few important habits to practice regularly.
Take a Bath or Shower:
During puberty, sweat glands become more active. Sweat itself doesn’t usually have a strong smell, but bacteria on the skin can cause body odor.
Regular bathing helps remove sweat, oil, dirt, and bacteria.
Remember to wash:
Under your arms
Your feet
Your genital area
Areas where you sweat
The rest of your body
Use soap and water, rinse well, and dry yourself with a clean towel.
Use deodorant.
If you’re noticing more body odor, deodorant or antiperspirant can help.
Deodorant helps control odor.
Antiperspirant helps reduce sweating.
Apply it to clean, dry underarms and follow the directions on the product.
Wear Clean Clothes
Clothing can collect sweat, bacteria, and odors.
Try to change your:
Underwear every day
Socks every day
Shirts and other clothing when they become sweaty or dirty
Clothes after sports or physical activity
Don’t forget about gym clothes. Bring sweaty clothes home to be washed instead of leaving them in your locker or bag.
Take Care of Your Skin
Hormones during puberty can cause your skin to produce more oil, which may lead to pimples or acne.
To care for your skin:
Gently wash your face regularly.
Use mild skincare products.
Avoid scrubbing your skin too hard.
Try not to pick or squeeze pimples.
Shower after heavy sweating when possible.
Acne is extremely common during puberty. It isn’t caused by being dirty.
If acne is painful, severe, or bothering you, talk with a parent or caregiver, and/or seek medical attention.
Genital Hygiene
Keeping your genital area clean is part of taking care of your body.
Use warm water and gentle washing. Avoid strongly scented products, sprays, or harsh soaps on sensitive genital areas.
Wear clean underwear each day and change out of wet or sweaty clothing when possible.
If you notice unusual itching, pain, sores, discharge, or another change that concerns you, talk with a safe adult or healthcare provider.
Period Hygiene
If you have a period, changing menstrual products regularly can help you stay clean and comfortable.
Depending on the product you use:
Follow the directions on the package
Change products regularly
Wash your hands before and after changing them
Dispose of used products properly
Keep a few supplies in your backpack, locker, or another convenient place so you’re prepared when your period starts.
Taking care of yourself becomes easier when healthy habits are part of your regular routine.
Remember
Puberty is normal.
Your body doesn’t need to look or develop exactly like anyone else’s.
Ask questions. Take care of yourself. Respect your body and other people’s bodies. And talk with a safe adult when you need help.
helpful Resources
KidsHealth – Puberty
Student-friendly information about puberty, body changes, periods, emotions, and growing up.
Visit: kidshealth.org
HealthyChildren.org
Health and development information from the American Academy of Pediatrics for young people and families.
Visit: healthychildren.org
AMAZE
Age-appropriate videos and information about puberty, growing up, healthy relationships, and personal health.
Visit: amaze.org
Office on Women’s Health
Reliable information about puberty, periods, menstrual health, and other health topics.
Visit: womenshealth.gov