1. What’s happening to my body?
Girls Group!
What’s happening to my body?

2. Puberty: Understanding Change
If you’re a young girl between the ages of 10-14, chances are you’ve begun to experience some bodily changes. These can be visible, including breast growth and acne, but there are also many changes happening which we can’t see. It’s called puberty, and adjusting to this stage can be quite scary. However, understanding what’s happening to our bodies makes the process more manageable.

3. Its Normal!
All girls and women experience the same changes when they begin to mature
This is the first time your body has begun to change so drastically. It can take time to adjust to your new body, but that’s Ok!
Getting to know and love your body is part of becoming a woman.

4. …but my normal is different than yours
Although women experience similar changes, these changes can affect each woman differently. Girls can experience differences in:
Breast development
Acne
Menstrual Cycle

5. 5 STAGES OF PUBERTY

6. Stage 1 (Ages 8-11): the only signs of puberty occur inside the body
ovaries react to hormones and estrogen is produced

7. Stage 2 (Ages 11-12): breasts and pubic hair begin to grow
Areolas darken and rise
A growth spurt occurs

8. Stage 3 (Ages 12-13): Growth of breasts and pubic hair continues
Armpit hair starts to grow
The vagina grows in size
The first menstrual cycle begins

9. Stage 4: (Ages 13-14) level of body fat reaches an adult level
Pubic and underarm hair are more coarse
Ovulation* begins to establish a rhythm
*Ovulation: part of the menstrual cycle where fully developed eggs are discharged from the ovaries. The egg travels down the fallopian tube where it can be met by sperm

10. Stage 5 (Ages 14-17): Puberty has ended
A young woman’s body is fully matured
A woman’s maximum adult height is reached
Breasts have reached their full size
Pubic hair is fully developed

11. TRUE or FALSE?
Every girl should have her period by the age of 13.
FALSE
Each girl is different and develops at her own rate. You may want to notify a doctor if you haven’t gotten a period by the age of 15. However, some girls can get their periods as late as 16 years old.

12. TRUE or FALSE?
Chocolate causes pimples, especially during puberty.
FALSE
While many believe that chocolate can directly cause pimples, this is not the case. Acne is a result of overactive glands in the skin. Certain foods may seem to cause your skin to break out, so it may be wise to limit the consumption of these foods. However, you do not need to avoid chocolate to have clear skin.

13. You should get your period:
A. Every Week
B. On the same day once a month
C. Every 2 months
D. None of the above
D. None of the Above. Remember ladies, my normal isn’t your normal. There are many factors that may influence a woman’s menstrual cycle, including stress or weight loss or gain. A woman’s period should occur once a month, but it may not occur on the same date each time.

14. Girl Chat! Are you scared to go through puberty?
Have you begun experiencing puberty already? What are some of the things you dislike the most? Is there anything about puberty you enjoy?
Does finishing puberty make you a woman?
Are there any myths regarding puberty that you would like to share?