There are no set changes that happen for everyone. Some girls begin with growth spurts during which they grow taller. For others, the first sign may be that their breasts begin to grow or hair starts to grow under their arms and in their pubic area.

During puberty, girls begin to get their menstrual periods. Menstrual periods are when a small amount of blood and tissue leave the body through the vagina over the course of a few days. It happens about once every month and can last from a couple of days to a week. Some girls have cramps during their periods while others don't. Girls commonly use a maxi pad, tampon or feminine hygiene cup to manage the blood that leaves their body during a period.

When a girl gets her first period, it signals that her body has begun ovulating.

Ovulation happens once a month when a hormone or chemical in the body signals a girl's ovaries to release an egg or ovum. This means that if a girl has unprotected sex she could become pregnant. The hormone estrogen is also released to signal to the girl's uterus to build up its lining. If after sex an egg is fertilized by a sperm, the fertilized egg will implant in the lining and cause a pregnancy. If an egg is not fertilized within 12 to 24 hours after ovulation, the egg dies and disintegrates. Two weeks later, when the uterus realizes there is no fertilized egg, the built-up lining of the uterus is released, or shed, during a girl's menstrual period.

Boys often begin puberty a little later than girls. Below are some common changes boys go through during puberty:

• Growing hair on the face, under the arms and in the genital area

• Growing taller

• Broadening shoulders

• Deepening voice

• Having frequent and at times spontaneous erections

Possibly experiencing wet dreams, meaning ejaculating semen while sleeping. (This is normal if it happens and normal if it does not.)

Everybody goes through puberty at their own pace. Hormones—the body's chemical signals-—tell your body to begin changing. Some people who are biologically male may experience a growth spurt sooner than others, while other might get facial hair or a deeper voice later than others. Your body will go through puberty at the exact right time for you, and there's no way to speed it up or slow it down. So don't worry, it's all totally normal!

Yes, during puberty, people can experience strong sexual feelings for no reason. A person that has a penis may get erections, when the penis fills with blood and stands away from the body. Erections can happen at times that are inconvenient, like while you're sitting in class, which can be embarrassing. It's good to have a plan for what you can do if and when this happens to you. You can try carrying an extra sweatshirt in your backpack to tie around your waist or a book you can carry in front of you. Mostly, don't worry— it happens to everyone and as you get older, it won't happen nearly as much.

During puberty the body produces a hormone called testosterone that tells the testicles to start making sperm. Once the body starts making sperm, semen—the fluid that contains sperm-can be released through the tip of the penis. This is called ejaculation.

Wet dreams happen when ejaculation occurs spontaneously while a boy is sleeping. Often when you have that first wet dream, you may think you have peed in the bed, but it's actually semen. You can simply take the sheet off the bed and put it in the hamper to be washed. And remember, wet dreams are normal if you have them and normal if you don't.

There are no set changes that happen for everyone. Some girls begin with growth spurts during which they grow taller. For others, the first sign may be that their breasts begin to grow or hair starts to grow under their arms and in their pubic area.

During puberty, girls begin to get their menstrual periods. Menstrual periods are when a small amount of blood and tissue leave the body through the vagina over the course of a few days. It happens about once every month and can last from a couple of days to a week. Some girls have cramps during their periods while others don't. Girls commonly use a maxi pad, tampon or feminine hygiene cup to manage the blood that leaves their body during a period.

When a girl gets her first period, it signals that her body has begun ovulating. Ovulation happens once a month when a hormone or chemical in the body signals a girl's ovaries to release an egg or ovum. This means that if a girl has unprotected sex she could become pregnant. The hormone estrogen is also released to signal to the girl's uterus to build up its lining. If after sex an egg is fertilized by a sperm, the fertilized egg will implant in the lining and cause a pregnancy. If an egg is not fertilized within 12 to 24 hours after ovulation, the egg dies and disintegrates. Two weeks later, when the uterus realizes there is no fertilized egg, the built-up lining of the uterus is released, or shed, during a girl's menstrual period.

Everybody goes through puberty at their own pace. Hormones-the body's chemical signals—tell your body to begin changing. Some people who are biologically male may experience a growth spurt sooner than others, while other might get facial hair or a deeper voice later than others. Your body will go through puberty at the exact right time for you, and there's no way to speed it up or slow it down. So don't worry, it's all totally normal!

Yes, during puberty, people can experience strong sexual feelings for no reason. A person that has a penis may get erections, when the penis fills with blood and stands away from the body. Erections can happen at times that are inconvenient, like while you're sitting in class, which can be embarrassing. It's good to have a plan for what you can do if and when this happens to you. You can try carrying an extra sweatshirt in your backpack to tie around your waist or a book you can carry in front of you. Mostly, don't worry-it happens to everyone and as you get older, it won't happen nearly as much.

During puberty the body produces a hormone called testosterone that tells the testicles to start making sperm. Once the body starts making sperm, semen—the fluid that contains sperm—can be released through the tip of the penis. This is called ejaculation. Wet dreams happen when ejaculation occurs spontaneously while a boy is sleeping. Often when you have that first wet dream, you may think you have peed in the bed, but it's actually semen. You can simply take the sheet off the bed and put it in the hamper to be washed. And remember, wet dreams are normal if you have them and normal if you don't.

Everybody goes through puberty at their own pace. Hormones—-the body's chemical signals-tell your body to begin changing. Some people who are biologically male may experience a growth spurt sooner than others, while other might get facial hair or a deeper voice later than others. Your body will go through puberty at the exact right time for you, and there's no way to speed it up or slow it down. So don't worry, it's all totally normal!

Yes, during puberty, people can experience strong sexual feelings for no reason. A person that has a penis may get erections, when the penis fills with blood and stands away from the body. Erections can happen at times that are inconvenient, like while you're sitting in class, which can be embarrassing. It's good to have a plan for what you can do if and when this happens to you. You can try carrying an extra sweatshirt in your backpack to tie around your waist or a book you can carry in front of you. Mostly, don't worry—it happens to everyone and as you get older, it won't happen nearly as much.

During puberty the body produces a hormone called testosterone that tells the testicles to start making sperm. Once the body starts making sperm, semen—the fluid that contains sperm-can be released through the tip of the penis. This is called ejaculation. Wet dreams happen when ejaculation occurs spontaneously while a boy is sleeping. Often when you have that first wet dream, you may think you have peed in the bed, but it's actually semen. You can simply take the sheet off the bed and put it in the hamper to be washed. And remember, wet dreams are normal if you have them and normal if you don't.

It can definitely be confusing to know when you can and can't kiss someone you like. The only way to know for sure if you can kiss your partner or engage in other sexual behaviors with them is to ask them each and every time. This is called getting their consent. It is very common to think that your partner may be into kissing or another sexual behavior by the way they are acting, but just because someone is acting a certain way, it doesn't necessarily mean they want to engage in a behavior.

Even though rejection can be hurtful, it's important to remember that there is nothing wrong with you. So, don't think that you need to change any aspect of your looks, personality or values. You are perfect just the way you are!

It's not right that this happened to you, and it is not your fault. No one should touch you, or force you to touch them, in a way that is not okay, whether you know this person or not or if this person is an adult or older kid or even someone your age. Don't keep this a secret. Find someone you trust, like a parent, family member, teacher, coach, a friend's parent or neighbor, and tell them what happened. There are people out there who can help. By law, most adult professionals (like teachers, coaches and doctors) are required to report this information to the police, so they can help to protect you and try to prevent the crime from happening again. You may be worried about getting the person who touched you or made you touch them in trouble, but remember that you have done nothing wrong and deserve to be safe. The best way to prevent this from happening again or to someone else is to talk to a trusted adult. You could talk face to face or on the phone. You could also send a text, email or letter. You could even make a drawing, if that's easier. The important thing is to tell someone. Keep telling until you get help.

There are no set changes that happen for everyone. Some girls begin with growth spurts during which they grow taller. For others, the first sign may be that their breasts begin to grow or hair starts to grow under their arms and in their pubic area.

During puberty, girls begin to get their menstrual periods. Menstrual periods are when a small amount of blood and tissue leave the body through the vagina over the course of a few days. It happens about once every month and can last from a couple of days to a week. Some girls have cramps during their periods while others don't. Girls commonly use a maxi pad, tampon or feminine hygiene cup to manage the blood that leaves their body during a period.

When a girl gets her first period, it signals that her body has begun ovulating. Ovulation happens once a month when a hormone or chemical in the body signals a girl's ovaries to release an egg or ovum. This means that if a girl has unprotected sex she could become pregnant. The hormone estrogen is also released to signal to the girl's uterus to build up its lining. If after sex an egg is fertilized by a sperm, the fertilized egg will implant in the lining and cause a pregnancy. If an egg is not fertilized within 12 to 24 hours after ovulation, the egg dies and disintegrates. Two weeks later, when the uterus realizes there is no fertilized egg, the built-up lining of the uterus is released, or shed, during a girl's menstrual period.

Boys often begin puberty a little later than girls. Below are some common changes boys go through during puberty:

• Growing hair on the face, under the arms and in the genital area

• Growing taller

• Broadening shoulders

• Deepening voice

• Having frequent and at times spontaneous erections

Possibly experiencing wet dreams, meaning ejaculating semen while sleeping. (This is normal if it happens and normal if it does not.)

Everybody goes through puberty at their own pace. Hormones-the body's chemical signals-tell your body to begin changing. Some people who are biologically male may experience a growth spurt sooner than others, while other might get facial hair or a deeper voice later than others. Your body will go through puberty at the exact right time for you, and there's no way to speed it up or slow it down. So don't worry, it's all totally normal!

Yes, during puberty, people can experience strong sexual feelings for no reason. A person that has a penis may get erections, when the penis fills with blood and stands away from the body. Erections can happen at times that are inconvenient, like while you're sitting in class, which can be embarrassing. It's good to have a plan for what you can do if and when this happens to you. You can try carrying an extra sweatshirt in your backpack to tie around your waist or a book you can carry in front of you. Mostly, don't worry—it happens to everyone and as you get older, it won't happen nearly as much.

During puberty the body produces a hormone called testosterone that tells the testicles to start making sperm. Once the body starts making sperm, semen—the fluid that contains sperm-can be released through the tip of the penis. This is called ejaculation. Wet dreams happen when ejaculation occurs spontaneously while a boy is sleeping. Often when you have that first wet dream, you may think you have peed in the bed, but it's actually semen. You can simply take the sheet off the bed and put it in the hamper to be washed. And remember, wet dreams are normal if you have them and normal if you don't.

No, masturbation will not hurt you or cause any health problems. There are many myths about how masturbating will affect you, but actually it cannot hurt you physically, even if done frequently. It should feel good, and it can also relieve stress and be a physically safe way to express sexual feelings.

A lot of people believe that masturbation is a normal, healthy thing to do. While masturbation is very common, there are lots of different beliefs about it. It's a good idea to talk with a parent or adult you trust to learn more about your family's views about masturbation.

It's absolutely true that many girls masturbate. In fact, most people do it at some point in their lives. That means it's normal if you do, and it's normal if you don't.

There are no set changes that happen for everyone. Some girls begin with growth spurts during which they grow taller. For others, the first sign may be that their breasts begin to grow or hair starts to grow under their arms and in their pubic area.

During puberty, girls begin to get their menstrual periods. Menstrual periods are when a small amount of blood and tissue leave the body through the vagina over the course of a few days. It happens about once every month and can last from a couple of days to a week. Some girls have cramps during their periods while others don't. Girls commonly use a maxi pad, tampon or feminine hygiene cup to manage the blood that leaves their body during a period.

When a girl gets her first period, it signals that her body has begun ovulating. Ovulation happens once a month when a hormone or chemical in the body signals a girl's ovaries to release an egg or ovum. This means that if a girl has unprotected sex she could become pregnant. The hormone estrogen is also released to signal to the girl's uterus to build up its lining. If after sex an egg is fertilized by a sperm, the fertilized egg will implant in the lining and cause a pregnancy. If an egg is not fertilized within 12 to 24 hours after ovulation, the egg dies and disintegrates. Two weeks later, when the uterus realizes there is no fertilized egg, the built-up lining of the uterus is released, or shed, during a girl's menstrual period.

Boys often begin puberty a little later than girls. Below are some common changes boys go through during puberty:

• Growing hair on the face, under the arms and in the genital area

• Growing taller

• Broadening shoulders

• Deepening voice

• Having frequent and at times spontaneous erections

Possibly experiencing wet dreams, meaning ejaculating semen while sleeping. (This is normal if it happens and normal if it does not.)

Mood swings are when a person's mood changes very quickly. That can include going from one extreme (like angry) to another extreme (like happy). These shifts in mood can happen quickly and teel intense.

Mood swings are a normal part of puberty. It's important to be patient with yourself and others who might be experiencing mood swings.

During puberty, the process in which a person grows into an adult, the brain starts to make a lot more hormones. Hormones are the body's chemical signals that tell certain body parts to grow, and they also affect the part of the brain that manages feelings or moods. This increase in hormones can otten lead to mood swings. This is all pertectly normal and tends to even out once a person is done with the changes of puberty.

Experiencing mood swings can be exhausting. So it's good to keep in mind that mood swings are a perfectly normal part of puberty and growing up. Talking about your feelings with friends and trusted adults can help, as can remembering that you're not alone in dealing with mood swings. Almost everyone going through puberty will deal with mood swings at some point or another.

If you ever feel sad for most of the time, then it's good to talk with a trusted adult or a counselor to check for something called depression. Depression is when someone feels sad most or all of the time. There are ways to help people experiencing it, so it's important to ask for help.

Everybody goes through puberty at their own pace. Hormones-the body's chemical signals—tell your body to begin changing. Some people who are biologically male may experience a growth spurt sooner than others, while other might get facial hair or a deeper voice later than others. Your body will go through puberty at the exact right time for you, and there's no way to speed it up or slow it down. So don't worry, it's all totally normal!

Yes, during puberty, people can experience strong sexual feelings for no reason. A person that has a penis may get erections, when the penis fills with blood and stands away from the body. Erections can happen at times that are inconvenient, like while you're sitting in class, which can be embarrassing. It's good to have a plan for what you can do if and when this happens to you. You can try carrying an extra sweatshirt in your backpack to tie around your waist or a book you can carry in front of you. Mostly, don't worry—it happens to everyone and as you get older, it won't happen nearly as much.

During puberty the body produces a hormone called testosterone that tells the testicles to start making sperm. Once the body starts making sperm, semen—the fluid that contains sperm-can be released through the tip of the penis. This is called ejaculation. Wet dreams happen when ejaculation occurs spontaneously while a boy is sleeping. Often when you have that first wet dream, you may think you have peed in the bed, but it's actually semen. You can simply take the sheet off the bed and put it in the hamper to be washed. And remember, wet dreams are normal it you have them and normal if you don't.

No, masturbation will not hurt you or cause any health problems. There are many myths about how masturbating will affect you, but actually it cannot hurt you physically, even if done frequently. It should feel good, and it can also relieve stress and be a physically safe way to express sexual feelings.

A lot of people believe that masturbation is a normal, healthy thing to do. While masturbation is very common, there are lots of different beliefs about it. It's a good idea to talk with a parent or adult you trust to learn more about your family's views about masturbation.

It's absolutely true that many girls masturbate. In fact, most people do it at some point in their lives. That means it's normal it you do, and it's normal it you don't.

There are no set changes that happen for everyone. Some girls begin with growth spurts during which they grow taller. For others, the first sign may be that their breasts begin to grow or hair starts to grow under their arms and in their pubic area.

During puberty, girls begin to get their menstrual periods. Menstrual periods are when a small amount of blood and tissue leave the body through the vagina over the course of a few days. It happens about once every month and can last from a couple of days to a week. Some girls have cramps during their periods while others don't. Girls commonly use a maxi pad, tampon or feminine hygiene cup to manage the blood that leaves their body during a period.

When a girl gets her first period, it signals that her body has begun ovulating. Ovulation happens once a month when a hormone or chemical in the body signals a girl's ovaries to release an egg or ovum. This means that if a girl has unprotected sex she could become pregnant. The hormone estrogen is also released to signal to the girl's uterus to build up its lining. If after sex an egg is fertilized by a sperm, the fertilized egg will implant in the lining and cause a pregnancy. If an egg is not fertilized within 12 to 24 hours after ovulation, the egg dies and disintegrates. Two weeks later, when the uterus realizes there is no fertilized egg, the built-up lining of the uterus is released, or shed, during a girl's menstrual period.

Boys often begin puberty a little later than girls. Below are some common changes boys go through during puberty:

• Growing hair on the face, under the arms and in the genital area

• Growing taller

• Broadening shoulders

• Deepening voice

• Having frequent and at times spontaneous erections

Possibly experiencing wet dreams, meaning ejaculating semen while sleeping. (This is normal if it happens and normal if it does not.)

TRUTH: Menstruation is a natural and healthy part of life!

Menstrual blood is made up of regular blood and uterine lining. It doesn't have any special or dangerous ingredients. Menstrual blood and uterine lining aren't dirty, they are natural and healthy parts of a human body.

TRUTH: Menstruation rights are human rights!

Human rights are rights that every ability to participate in community activities. Because menstrual blood is natural and safe, it is okay for gatherings during their menstruation. It is especially important that young girls are able to attend school during calairy mising may day of their peers academically.

TRUTH: It is okay to talk about menstruation!

There is no shame in menstruating, it is an amazing part of being human and prepares a body to create life! It is okay to talk with others about menstruation, how to care for your body, and where to dispose of menstruation products. There are many ways a person can take care of themselves that are safe, clean, and healthy during their menstrual cycle. Talking about menstruation can help reduce anxiety and fear and increase knowledge and confidence. People who are menstruating have the right to know and make decisions about how they take care of their bodies; talking about it can support them in making healthy and safe choices.

There are no set changes that happen for everyone. Some girls begin with growth spurts during which they grow taller. For others, the first sign may be that their breasts begin to grow or hair starts to grow under their arms and in their pubic area.

During puberty, girls begin to get their menstrual periods. Menstrual periods are when a small amount of blood and tissue leave the body through the vagina over the course of a few days. It happens about once every month and can last from a couple of days to a week. Some girls have cramps during their periods while others don't. Girls commonly use a maxi pad, tampon or feminine hygiene cup to manage the blood that leaves their body during a period.

When a girl gets her first period, it signals that her body has begun ovulating. Ovulation happens once a month when a hormone or chemical in the body signals a girl's ovaries to release an egg or ovum. This means that if a girl has unprotected sex she could become pregnant. The hormone estrogen is also released to signal to the girl's uterus to build up its lining. If after sex an egg is fertilized by a sperm, the fertilized egg will implant in the lining and cause a pregnancy. If an egg is not fertilized within 12 to 24 hours after ovulation, the egg dies and disintegrates. Two weeks later, when the uterus realizes there is no fertilized egg, the built-up lining of the uterus is released, or shed, during a girl's menstrual period.

Boys often begin puberty a little later than girls. Below are some common changes boys go through during puberty:

• Growing hair on the face, under the arms and in the genital area

• Growing taller

• Broadening shoulders

• Deepening voice

• Having frequent and at times spontaneous erections

Possibly experiencing wet dreams, meaning ejaculating semen while sleeping. (This is normal if it happens and normal if it does not.)

There are no set changes that happen for everyone. Some girls begin with growth spurts during which they grow taller. For others, the first sign may be that their breasts begin to grow or hair starts to grow under their arms and in their pubic area.

During puberty, girls begin to get their menstrual periods. Menstrual periods are when a small amount of blood and tissue leave the body through the vagina over the course of a few days. It happens about once every month and can last from a couple of days to a week. Some girls have cramps during their periods while others don't. Girls commonly use a maxi pad, tampon or feminine hygiene cup to manage the blood that leaves their body during a period.

When a girl gets her first period, it signals that her body has begun ovulating. Ovulation happens once a month when a hormone or chemical in the body signals a girl's ovaries to release an egg or ovum. This means that if a girl has unprotected sex she could become pregnant. The hormone estrogen is also released to signal to the girl's uterus to build up its lining. If after sex an egg is fertilized by a sperm, the fertilized egg will implant in the lining and cause a pregnancy. If an egg is not fertilized within 12 to 24 hours after ovulation, the egg dies and disintegrates. Two weeks later, when the uterus realizes there is no fertilized egg, the built-up lining of the uterus is released, or shed, during a girl's menstrual period.

Boys often begin puberty a little later than girls. Below are some common changes boys go through during puberty:

• Growing hair on the face, under the arms and in the genital area

• Growing taller

• Broadening shoulders

• Deepening voice

• Having frequent and at times spontaneous erections

Possibly experiencing wet dreams, meaning ejaculating semen while sleeping. (This is normal if it happens and normal if it does not.)

There are no set changes that happen for everyone. Some girls begin with growth spurts during which they grow taller. For others, the first sign may be that their breasts begin to grow or hair starts to grow under their arms and in their pubic area.

During puberty, girls begin to get their menstrual periods. Menstrual periods are when a small amount of blood and tissue leave the body through the vagina over the course of a few days. It happens about once every month and can last from a couple of days to a week. Some girls have cramps during their periods while others don't. Girls commonly use a maxi pad, tampon or feminine hygiene cup to manage the blood that leaves their body during a period.

When a girl gets her first period, it signals that her body has begun ovulating. Ovulation happens once a month when a hormone or chemical in the body signals a girl's ovaries to release an egg or ovum. This means that if a girl has unprotected sex she could become pregnant. The hormone estrogen is also released to signal to the girl's uterus to build up its lining. If after sex an egg is fertilized by a sperm, the fertilized egg will implant in the lining and cause a pregnancy. If an egg is not fertilized within 12 to 24 hours after ovulation, the egg dies and disintegrates. Two weeks later, when the uterus realizes there is no fertilized egg, the built-up lining of the uterus is released, or shed, during a girl's menstrual period.

Boys often begin puberty a little later than girls. Below are some common changes boys go through during puberty:

• Growing hair on the face, under the arms and in the genital area

• Growing taller

• Broadening shoulders

• Deepening voice

• Having frequent and at times spontaneous erections

Possibly experiencing wet dreams, meaning ejaculating semen while sleeping. (This is normal if it happens and normal if it does not.)

There are no set changes that happen for everyone. Some girls begin with growth spurts during which they grow taller. For others, the first sign may be that their breasts begin to grow or hair starts to grow under their arms and in their pubic area.

During puberty, girls begin to get their menstrual periods. Menstrual periods are when a small amount of blood and tissue leave the body through the vagina over the course of a few days. It happens about once every month and can last from a couple of days to a week. Some girls have cramps during their periods while others don't. Girls commonly use a maxi pad, tampon or feminine hygiene cup to manage the blood that leaves their body during a period When a girl gets her first period, it signals that her body has begun ovulating. Ovulation happens once a month when a hormone or chemical in the body signals a girl's ovaries to release an egg or ovum. This means that if a girl has unprotected sex she could become pregnant. The hormone estrogen is also released to signal to the girl's uterus to build up its lining. If after sex an egg is fertilized by a sperm, the fertilized egg will implant in the lining and cause a pregnancy. If an egg is not fertilized within 12 to 24 hours after ovulation, the egg dies and disintegrates. Two weeks later, when the uterus realizes there is no fertilized egg, the built-up lining of the uterus is released, or shed, during a girl's menstrual period.

Boys often begin puberty a little later than girls. Below are some common changes boys go through during puberty:

• Growing hair on the face, under the arms and in the genital area

• Growing taller

• Broadening shoulders

• Deepening voice

• Having frequent and at times spontaneous erections

Possibly experiencing wet dreams, meaning ejaculating semen while sleeping. (This is normal if it happens and normal if it does not.)

There are no set changes that happen for everyone. Some people begin with growth spurts during which they grow taller. For others, the first sign may be that their breasts begin to grow or hair starts to grow under their arms and in their pubic area. Some people might notice they are getting more moody or might notice their hair is more oily. It's all normal and happens to everyone as they go through puberty.

Some people might start to notice the changes of puberty beginning around the ages of 8-9 while for others, it might not begin until 12-13. There is a wide range of ages when a person can go through puberty and it usually takes 5-7 years for all of the changes to be complete. While it can feel like you're the only one dealing with the changes of puberty, everyone goes through these changes, at their own pace in a way that is normal for their body.

People with a penis often begin puberty a little later than people with a vulva. Below are some common changes they go through during puberty:

• Growing hair on the face, under the arms and in the genital area

• Growing taller

• Broadening shoulders

• Deepening voice

• Having frequent, and at times, spontaneous erections

Possibly experiencing wet dreams, meaning ejaculating semen while sleeping. (This is normal if it happens and normal if it does not.)

There are no set changes that happen for everyone. Some girls begin with growth spurts during which they grow taller. For others, the first sign may be that their breasts begin to grow or hair starts to grow under their arms and in their pubic area.

People with a penis often begin puberty a little later than people with a vulva. Below are some common changes they go through during puberty:

• Growing hair on the face, under the arms and in the genital area

• Growing taller

• Broadening shoulders

• Deepening voice

• Having frequent, and at times, spontaneous erections

Possibly experiencing wet dreams, meaning ejaculating semen while sleeping. (This is normal if it happens and normal if it does not.)

During puberty, girls begin to get their menstrual periods. Menstrual periods are when a small amount of blood and tissue leave the body through the vagina over the course of a few days. It happens about once every month and can last from a couple of days to a week. Some girls have cramps during their periods while others don't. Girls commonly use a maxi pad, tampon or feminine hygiene cup to manage the blood that leaves their body during a period.

When a girl gets her first period, it signals that her body has begun ovulating. Ovulation happens once a month when a hormone or chemical in the body signals a girl's ovaries to release an egg or ovum. This means that if a girl has unprotected sex she could become pregnant. The hormone estrogen is also released to signal to the girl's uterus to build up its lining. If after sex an egg is fertilized by a sperm, the fertilized egg will implant in the lining and cause a pregnancy. If an egg is not fertilized within 12 to 24 hours after ovulation, the egg dies and disintegrates. Two weeks later, when the uterus realizes there is no fertilized egg, the built-up lining of the uterus is released, or shed, during a girl's menstrual period.

Everybody goes through puberty at their own pace. Hormones-the body's chemical signals—tell your body to begin changing. Some boys may experience a growth spurt sooner than others, while other boys might get facial hair or a deeper voice later than others. Your body will go through puberty at the exact right time for you, and there's no way to speed it up or slow it down. So don't worry, it's all totally normal!

Yes, during puberty, people can experience strong sexual feelings for no reason. Boys may get erections, when the penis fills with blood and stands away from the body. Erections can happen at times that are inconvenient, like while you're sitting in class, which can be embarrassing. It's good to have a plan for what you can do if and when this happens to you. You can try carrying an extra sweatshirt in your backpack to tie around your waist or a book you can carry in front of you. Mostly, don't worry —it happens to everyone and as you get older, it won't happen nearly as much.

During puberty the body produces a hormone called testosterone that tells the testicles to start making sperm. Once the body starts making sperm, semen-the fluid that contains sperm-can be released through the tip of the penis. This is called ejaculation. Wet dreams happen when ejaculation occurs spontaneously while a boy is sleeping. Often when you have that first wet dream, you may think you have peed in the bed, but it's actually semen. You can simply take the sheet off the bed and put it in the hamper to be washed. And remember, wet dreams are normal if you have them and normal if you don't.

Mood swings are when a person's mood changes very quickly. That can include going from one extreme (like angry) to another extreme (like happy). These shifts in mood can happen quickly and feel intense. Mood swings are a normal part of puberty. It's important to be patient with yourself and others who might be experiencing mood swings.

During puberty, the process in which a person grows into an adult, the brain starts to make a lot more harmones Hormones are the body's chemical signals that tell certain body parts to grow, and they also affect the part of the brain that manages teelings or moods |his increase in hormones. can often lead to mood swings.

This is all perfectly normal and tends to even out once a person is done with the changes of puberty.

Experiencing mood swings can be exhausting. So it's good to keep in mind that mood swings are a perfectly normal part of puberty and growing up. Talking about your feelings with friends and trusted adults can help, as can remembering that you're not alone in dealing with mood swings. Almost everyone going through puberty will deal with mood swings at some point or another.

If you ever feel sad for most of the time, then it's good to talk with a trusted adult or a counselor to check for something called depression. Depression is when someone feels sad most or all of the time. There are ways to help people experiencing it, so it's important to ask for help.

There are no set changes that happen for everyone. Some girls begin with growth spurts during which they grow taller. For others, the first sign may be that their breasts begin to grow or hair starts to grow under their arms and in their pubic area.

During puberty, girls begin to get their menstrual periods. Menstrual periods are when a small amount of blood and tissue leave the body through the vagina over the course of a tew days. It happens about once every month and can last from a couple of days to a week. Some girls have cramps during their periods while others con't. Giris commoniv use a maxil pad, tampon or teminine hygiene cup to manage the blood that leaves their body during a period.

When a girl gets her first period, it signals that her body has begun ovulating. Ovulation happens once a month when a hormone or chemical in the body signals a girl's ovaries to release an egg or ovum. This means that if a girl has unprotected sex she could become pregnant. The hormone estrogen is also released to signal to the girl's uterus to build up its lining. If after sex an egg is fertilized by a sperm, the fertilized egg will implant in the lining and cause a preqnancy. It an ega is not fertilized within 12 to 24 hours after ovulation, the egg dies and disintegrates. Two weeks later, when the uterus realizes there is no fertilized egg, the built-up lining of the uterus is released, on shed, during a girl's menstrual period.

Boys often begin puberty a little later than girls. Below are some common changes boys go through during puberty:

• Growing hair on the face, under the arms and in the genital area

• Growing taller

• Broadening shoulders

• Deepening voice

• Having frequent and at times spontaneous erections

Possibly experiencing wet dreams, meaning ejaculating semen while sleeping. (This is normal if it happens and normal if it does not.)

Everybody goes through puberty at their own pace. Hormones—the body's chemical signals-tell your body to begin changing. Some people who are biologically male may experience a growth spurt sooner than others, while other might get facial hair or a deeper voice later than others. Your body will go through puberty at the exact right time for you, and there's no way to speed it up or slow it down. So don't worry, it's all totally normal!

Yes, during puberty, people can experience strong sexual feelings for no reason. A person that has a penis may get erections, when the penis fills with blood and stands away from the body. Erections can happen at times that are inconvenient, like while you're sitting in class, which can be embarrassing. It's good to have a plan for what you can do if and when this happens to you. You can try carrying an extra sweatshirt in your backpack to tie around your waist or a book you can carry in front of you. Mostly, don't worry— it happens to everyone and as you get older, it won't happen nearly as much.

During puberty the body produces a hormone called testosterand that tells the testicles to starti making sperm. Once the body starts making sperm, semen-the fluid that contains sperm-can be released through the tip of the penis. This is called ejaculation.

Wet dreams happen when ejaculation occurs spontaneously while a boy is sleeping. Often when you have that first wet dream, you may think you have peed in the bed, but it's actually semen. You can simply take the sheet oft the bed and put it in the hamper to be washed. And remember, wet dreams are normal. if you have them and normal if you don't

Mood swings are when a person's mood changes very quickly. That can include going from one extreme (like angry) to another extreme (like happy). These shifts in mood can happen quickly and feel intense. Mood swings are a normal part of puberty. It's important to be patient with yourself and others who might be experiencing mood swings.

During puberty, the process in which a person grows into an adult, the brain starts to make a lot more hormones. Hormones are the body's chemical signals that tell certain body parts to grow, and they also affect the part of the brain that manages feelings or moods. This increase in hormones can often lead to mood swings.

This is all perfectly normal and tends to even out once a person is done with the changes of puberty.

Experiencing mood swings can be exhausting. So it's good to keep in mind that mood swings are a perfectly normal part of puberty and growing up. Talking about your feelings with friends and trusted adults can help, as can remembering that you're not alone in dealing with mood swings. Almost everyone going through puberty will deal with mood swings at some point or another.

If you ever feel sad for most of the time, then it's good to talk with a trusted adult or a counselor to check for something called depression. Depression is when someone feels sad most or all of the time. There are ways to help people experiencing it, so it's important to ask for help.

It can definitely be confusing to know when you can and can't kiss someone you like. The only way to know for sure if you can kiss your partner or engage in other sexual behaviors with them is to ask them each and every time. This is called getting their consent. It is very common to think that your partner may be into kissing or another sexual behavior by the way they are acting, but just because someone is acting a certain way, it doesn't necessarily mean they want to engage in a behavior.

Even though rejection can be hurtful, it's important to remember that there is nothing wrong with you. So, don't think that you need to change any aspect of your looks, personality or values. You are perfect just the way you are!

It's not right that this happened to you, and it is not your fault. No one should touch you, or force you to touch them, in a way that is not okay, whether you know this person or not or if this person is an adult or older kid or even someone your age. Don't keep this a secret. Find someone you trust, like a parent, family member, teacher, coach, a friend's parent or neighbor, and tell them what happened. There are people out there who can help. By law, most adult professionals (like teachers, coaches and doctors) are required to report this information to the police, so they can help to protect you and try to prevent the crime from happening again. You may be worried about getting the person who touched you or made you touch them in trouble, but remember that you have done nothing wrong and deserve to be safe. The best way to prevent this from happening again or to someone else is to talk to a trusted adult. You could talk face to face or on the phone. You could also send a text, email or letter. You could even make a drawing, if that's easier. The important thing is to tell someone. Keep telling until you get help.

Deciding when to have sex is a very personal decision. There are lots of things a person may consider when deciding if they are ready to have sex. People's decisions about when to have sex can be informed by their personal feelings about when the time is right, their families' beliefs, cultural beliefs or religious beliefs. People get to decide for themselves when they are ready to have sex. Most young people wait to have sex until they're about 17. Only 41 percent of high school students have ever had sex, and very few have sex before getting to high school. Even though it might seem like a lot of people your age are having sex, it's totally normal to wait until you're older and feel more ready.

No one can tell if a person is a virgin just by looking at them or even from a medical exam. People once believed that you could tell if a girl was a virgin if her hymen was not broken. The hymen is a thin tissue that can cover part of the vaginal opening (located about a half-inch inside the vagina). We know now that some people are born without hymens, and some people's hymen's can be broken from doing ordinary things, like gymnastics or using a tampon. What is important is not whether someone's hymen is broken or they have engaged in sexual behaviors, but that they choose to have sex when it is healthy and right for them.

People can sometimes disagree about what it means to "have sex." Some people believe being a virgin means never having been involved in any type of sexual behavior with another person, including oral sex. For other people, being a virgin means never having had vaginal sex. Someone may never have vaginal sex but engage in other sexual behaviors, like oral sex. Does this make that person a virgin? People define virginity in different ways, including not believing in it at all. What is important is not whether someone has or had not engaged in sexual behaviors, but that they choose to have sex when it is healthy and right for them.

Try calling or texting a friend to meet up in real life! If you have FOMO, your friends might too. Calling someone to hang out or just talk on the phone can make them feel included and is a great way to connect.

There are a few questions to ask yourself:

1. Is there a specific product in the post?

2. Does the person tag a company or brand?

3. Is the person selling something?

4. Does the post link to another post?