RFSU provides information about puberty

During puberty, the body develops a lot. This is caused by hormones, and the changes happen at different rates for everyone. Most people start puberty between 10 and 14 years of age and the entire process takes about 4 to 6 years. 

During puberty, people often grow quickly, and their voice deepens. In female bodies, the mammary glands swell and may feel tender. There is also an increase in fatty tissue. It is common for breasts to grow at different rates and be different sizes. Hair begins to grow in the armpits and around the genitals. You may also develop hair on your chest, back, bottom, and face. Some people grow a lot of hair, while others grow little or almost none. During puberty, the skin often becomes oilier and it is common to get pimples.

The genitals become a darker color during puberty. It is common to develop harmless spots and bumps on the penis. The penis and scrotum get bigger. The labia get bigger and the scent of the vagina changes, which is exactly as it should be. A fat called smegma forms between the labia and under the foreskin. If it isn’t washed away, it can start to smell bad. You can wash between the labia and under the foreskin using unscented oil and lukewarm water. It is fine to wash the penis, scrotum and the outside of the vulva with a mild soap.

During puberty, the body begins to produce eggs or sperm. This is called becoming sexually mature and it means you can become pregnant or make someone else pregnant. Signs of sexual maturity are getting a menstrual period or ejaculating. The first ejaculation may happen at night while you sleep. During a period, some people may have pain in the belly and feel sick and depressed. Others may have no symptoms.

Hormones, strong emotions and life changes can affect your mood. Many people also begin to think more about sex or have a desire to have a boyfriend or girlfriend. For most people, puberty feels both exciting and difficult at the same time.

Masturbation is something that most people do because it feels good. Nothing changes and no one can see from your body that you have masturbated. Having sex with yourself is a good way to get to know your body.

As your body develops, it can also become clear if your body does not match the way you feel. That can feel lonely and it can make puberty especially hard. For example, you may develop a girl’s body, but you clearly feel like a boy, or it may be the opposite. Some people do not feel like a boy or a girl, or sometimes they feel like both. Everyone has the right to be themselves.

It can be nice to talk to someone about your thoughts and feelings, or if you have questions about sex, condoms or other contraceptives. If you are young you can contact a youth clinic, school counselor or school nurse. People in these professions are bound by confidentiality, which means they will not tell anyone that you were there or what you talked about. Guardians who want to provide better support can also find help there.
Knowledge makes understanding puberty easier.