Pubertad y primera regla

Puberty: what changes

Revisado: 4 de octubre de 2026

Solo en inglés por ahora

Puberty is when your body starts to grow up. For girls it usually starts between ages 8 and 13. Here is what changes in your body and your feelings.

What puberty is

Puberty is the time when your body changes from a child's body into an adult's. For girls, it usually starts between ages 8 and 13. For boys, it is usually between 9 and 14. It starts when a small gland at the bottom of your brain sends out hormones. Hormones are chemical messengers in your blood. In girls, they tell the ovaries to make a hormone called oestrogen. This causes many of the changes.

Changes in your body

For most girls, the first sign is breasts starting to grow. It begins as a small swelling under each nipple. Often one side starts first, and the area can feel a bit sore. This is normal. Next, hair starts to grow around your genitals (pubic hair) and under your arms. You will also grow taller quickly for about 2 to 3 years. This is called a growth spurt. Your hips get wider and your body gets curvier. Boys change too. Their voice gets deeper, and hair starts to grow on their face.

Discharge and your first period

You may notice some white or clear fluid in your underwear. This is called vaginal discharge. It is normal, and it helps keep your vagina clean. It often starts about 6 months to a year before your first period. Periods usually come last, about 2 years after your breasts start to grow. Most girls get their first period at around age 12.

Sweat, smell and spots

During puberty, you may sweat more, and your body can start to smell. A shower every day helps. A deodorant helps with smell, and an antiperspirant also reduces sweat. Lots of young people get spots (acne) too. Gently wash your face morning and night with warm water and a mild cleanser. Try not to squeeze or pick your spots.

New feelings

Puberty can bring strong new feelings. Your mood may change quickly, and things may upset you more than they used to. At times you may not be sure how you feel. You may also start to feel attracted to other people. This is a normal part of growing up. Talking to someone you trust can help. If you feel low most of the time, or think about hurting yourself, tell an adult you trust or get help straight away.

Everyone grows at their own pace

Everyone grows at a different speed. Your friends might start puberty before or after you, and most differences are gone by the end. If you have questions, talk to a parent or carer, a doctor or nurse, a school nurse, a teacher or another adult you trust. See a doctor or nurse if puberty starts before age 8, or if you have no signs of puberty by 13. Also go if your periods have not started by 15, or within 3 years of your breasts starting to grow.

This is general information. Everyone goes through puberty at their own pace. If you are worried, talk to a parent, carer, doctor or nurse.