Body Changes

It's time to change...

When your body reaches a certain age, called puberty, your brain releases a special hormone that starts changes in your body. This time can be very stressful for teenagers and at the same time very exciting.

BODY

Your body is growing, which will last for about 2 or 3 years. But the height isn't the only thing that changes - you will probably put on weight and the shape of your body will change too.

HAIR

Hair starts to grow where it didn't grow before: under the arms and in the pubic area. First it might looks funny and feel strange, after a while the hair will get thicker and will grow more regularly.

FACE

Pimples are normal at this stage - most people become embarrassed about the red spots in their faces. It helps to keep your body clean. It usually gets better by the end of adolescence but if you're having real problems with your skin a doctor or pharmacist (chemist) will be able to help.

More changes for the guys... Your voice will also change. Maybe it will sound funny in the beginning but that's normal. It won't take long until your voice becomes deeper. Your breasts might start to grow but that will stop. Your penis will become longer and wider. You might start growing a beard and hairs on your chest.

More changes for the girls... Your body will becomes curvier and your breasts will develop. Don't worry when they don't always look the same, that's normal and they will be similar when your body finished growing. The release of hormones causes a girl's body to mature and prepares her for pregnancy so girls will have their first menstrual period.

		Remember: Your body is a natural thing and body changes are natural processes; therefore it's unhealthy if you are trying to stop the changes, for example by going on a diet. Talk to your doctor if you are worried or ask your parents. Talking and being open with friends can make you feel you're not the only one who is confused about all the changes.

Every body is different and an amazing thing. So treat your body right. Being different to others is not a sign of being more or less feminine or masculine. Learn to accept the changes in your body and learn how to be happy with who you are and how you look. This is a much better than looking the same as everyone else!