physical effects
HEAD TO TOE CHANGES
Your body is going to change a lot over the next few years, and you probably want to know what's going to happen. Often times, kids are not properly prepared for puberty - especially for early puberty. Let's quickly go over some common changes that are going to happen to your body.
[you can find some more definitions here on the home page]
PUBIC HAIR
As your body develops, you will begin to grow pubic hair. When it first comes in, it might be thin and soft, but over time it can get thicker, coarser, and curlier. It can also grow up toward your bellybutton and back toward your anal opening. This hair protects your vagina and helps keep it clean. It also helps keep your skin from getting irritated from vaginal discharge or period blood.
VAGINAL DISCHARGE
Before you get your period, you might experience vaginal discharge. It is a sticky, white or off-white substance your vagina begins to secrete during puberty due to your changing hormones. It can be thick or runny, and you might be able to feel it in your underpants. This discharge helps keep your vagina healthy. You will continue to have vaginal discharge when you're an adult, as well. If you're worried about it affecting your clothes, you can wear an unscented panty-liner.
HORMONES & ACNE
Hormones affect every part of puberty. They are also responsible for changes in your skin. It might become oily, and you might see pimples and papules develop on your face, back, chest, or shoulders. Acne is very common, and can persist into adulthood. During this time, it's important to wash your face everyday. If it makes you uncomfortable, your doctor can prescribe medicine to help with the symptoms.
