Unit 6 New unit & new rules!

RULES Think before you speak! Use proper medical terms be respectful anonymous question box RULES

What do you think we are going to talk about? Why is it important we discuss these topics? Why is it difficult for some to discuss these things? What are good resources if you have questions?

Adolescence & Puberty

Terms to know Adolescence Glands Puberty Endocrine System Sexual Reproduction Hormone Estrogen Testosterone

Stages of Life...

What stage are you in? Right now, you are going through your adolescent years! 12 - 18 years Transitioning from childhood to adulthood! During adolescence, you will experience puberty! What is puberty???

Puberty This is when your body begins to change and develop as you move from kid to adult. Your body goes through physical changes that prepare your body for capability of sexual reproduction.

What causes puberty? Usually between the ages of 8 - 15, your brain releases special hormones that start these changes. What are hormones? Body chemicals that regulate many body functions...such as puberty! What special hormones? Girls: Estrogen Boys: Testosterone Girls usually start before boys, but everyone is different! Girls: usually between the ages of 8 and 13. Boys: usually between the ages of 9 and 15.

What is responsible for releasing these hormones? The Endocrine System → → → It is a collection of glands that release hormones directly into the circulatory (blood) system.

Before we talk about changes...let’s see how much you know! What changes? Before we talk about changes...let’s see how much you know! Close your packets! I will call out a list of changes that occur during puberty. If you believe it is a… FEMALE only change, stand by the WINDOW. MALE only change, stand by the cabinets. FEMALE & MALE change, stand in the middle of the room. If you have no idea...guess!

What you can expect Sexual organs mature

Change feels strange... Just as hormones change the way you look on the outside, they also create changes on the inside! You will experience many different emotions and that’s okay! You may lose your temper, get angry, and/or feel anxious, nervous or embarrassed more often. You may begin having feelings of attraction toward others. Remember, your “puberty brain” is just trying to adjust to new hormones!

Remember, it’s okay! We are all different! Everyone is different Everyone develops at his or her own pace… Maybe some of your friends are getting their period and you haven’t. Maybe your best friend’s voice has changed and your’s hasn’t. Maybe you are the tallest girl in your grade. Maybe you’re the only boy who has to shave. Remember, it’s okay! We are all different! If you are concerned that you are developing too late, talk with your parents and schedule a visit to see your doctor.