Puberty
Puberty causes many changes:
- Changes happen over quite a few years and at different rates
- Changes to height and weight and feelings of being clumbsy
- Changes to body shape, breasts, hips, penis and testicles
- Development of pubic and under arm hair
- Removal of body hair – legs, underarms for girls (if they wish)
- Appearance of periods and the management of them
- Facial hair for boys and issues of shaving, when and what with
- Voice changes for boys
- The possibility of wet dreams for boys
- Spots – may or may not be a problem
- Increase in sweat – leading to possible issues around body odour
- Mood swings
- Changes to sleep patterns
- Interest in sexuality issues, crushes on people etc
| Puberty refers to the stages the body goes through to reach sexual maturity and happens as a result of hormones being produced. For girls, puberty happens between the ages of 9 and 16 and boys, between the ages of 12 and 18. If there are no signs of puberty by the age of fifteen, it is a good idea to visit the Doctor (GP) for a check-up. Puberty can occur at different times and at different rates. It can be a worrying time for children and especially for those who start to develop earlier or later than their friends. They may ask themselves “am I normal?” They may compare their bodies with those of their friends. |  |
It is important to remember that no two people go through puberty at the same time or at the same rate.
Puberty starts when hormones are produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. These hormones, called gonadotrophins, stimulate the ovaries to produce oestrogen and the testes to produce testosterone.
The process of reaching sexual maturity happens in a number of stages. These stages tend to follow on from one another. So, if you are a girl, your periods will not start until your breasts and pubic hair have begun to grow. If you are a boy, your voice will not break until after your testicles and penis have begun to grow.
The skeleton and muscular system also changes into their adult form. The hands and feet can grow first, alongside an increase in height and weight, which mean that they can feel awkward and clumsy. It takes a time for the brain and body to catch up with each other.
Sweat
A lot depends on the genes we are born with and our body shape and size.
During puberty the sweat glands found in the armpits, the breasts and around the genital-anal area start to release sweat in response to stress, emotion and sexual excitement. Regular washing and the use of deodorant should be encouraged to stop body odour.
Spots
Some young people will develop spots on their face and back as a result of the hormonal changes in puberty. It is important that the skin is kept clean and that spots are not picked. The local pharmacist will be able to give advice on cream, anti-bacterial washes etc. If the problem become severe then a visit to the Doctor (GP) may be necessary.
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Emotions
Young people can feel like they are on an emotional roller coaster when going through puberty. They may feel depressed, have mood swings and low self-confidence. This is all part of growing up and adjusting to becoming an adult. However, it is important at this stage to still keep communication between the young person and parent open, even though it may appear very difficult. |
Your child is learning about the person they will become, looking for a sense of belonging and establishing self-esteem. Alongside this they will want a greater degree freedom, independence and privacy, which can cause stress levels to rise within the home.
Sleeping patterns may also change and it is not abnormal for the young person to go to bed later and get up much later.
As with all things related to our bodies, it is important to maintain a good well balanced diet.
Sexuality
During puberty, it is common for young people to think about their sexuality. They may develop a ‘crush’ on someone. Some young people find themselves attracted to others of the same sex at some point during puberty. It does not necessarily mean they are gay. However, puberty can be an anxious time for anyone who is concerned or uncertain about their sexuality. There are many web sites and help lines that offer information and advice for anyone in this situation
Other Websites: