Decoding Puberty in Females

Adolescence is not easy.

Neither for the individual, nor for the family around! Yet it is a very important part of growing up.

Growing up comes with a lot of responsibilities and challenges on its way. One such phase of life is puberty. It usually happens to girls around 10-14 yrs and signifies their transition to a young woman. The body goes through some important physical changes and normally lasts for a few years. As parents, if you have a young girl at home, make sure to talk to her and help her understand the changes. 

Physical changes

1. Girls start to change shape. Fuller hips, bigger breasts begin to grow. One breast may be bigger than the other. Don’t panic, it’s normal. It’s time to make her wear a sports bra.

2. Expect more sweat from the body. Stay hydrated and clean the underarms from time to time.

3. There will be hair growth in the body. Arms, legs, will have more hair growth than before. Thick and coarse hair in the pubic region will develop.

4. The skin will secrete more oil than usual. The oil and sweat, in turn, causes acne to breakout. Do not break or squish them. Consult a doctor and clean your face with an antiseptic wash. 

1. In some cases, there is a white vaginal discharge, 5-6 months before the first period. Keep the vagina clean and use only water to cleanse it. 

1. There may be a growth spurt in your girls’ height because once her period begins; the growth begins to slow down. 

Mental, Social and Emotional Changes

While the visible physical changes make parents happy, the behavioural changes may become troublesome. But don’t worry. This is completely natural and happens to all maturing girls!

Expect a lot of ups and downs in your daughter’s moods and emotions due to hormonal changes. She may want more freedom, may feel more connected with friends, get self-conscious, especially about her looks and body. Picking up on necessary fights and arguments, feeling angry or irritated are other common symptoms of growing up. Mentally, she may get into abstract thinking, and develop an interest in philosophy, politics or just about anything.

Dealing with your Daughter’s puberty

There is no rocket science to deal with your adolescent girl as hormones overpower her and she can react illogically, but a few points can definitely help your relationship, and your daughter.

Teenagers start developing individuality and need respect. Talk to her with a calm and composed mind. Practice yoga and meditation with her. Make her feel loved and supported at all times. Know that she has a good set of friends and teachers around.

Remember, discussing puberty with your girl is very crucial, and it shouldn’t be confined to a one-time conversation. Discuss in as great lengths about sexual health, awareness, the meaning of consent, how to prevent sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy and substance abuse.

Let her know that you are always standing there for her, backing her! 

And of course, learn to bear ‘a bit’ of her tantrums.