Puberty in Girls: Explaining the Changes
As a mother or a guardian, you can't help but be a bit worried about you little girl who will soon experience puberty. The whole transition from being a young child to womanhood can be overwhelming to her, and she is going to seek comfort in you.
Growing girls in this digital day and age tend to dread this conversation. They usually get tidbits of information from around their circles, which may or may not be good for them. This is why it is best that you - a trusted guardian - address this change and discuss it with her in detail.
While it is possible that you feel awkward discussing it, your daughter will feel relieved when you take the lead. She knows that you understand puberty and the changes that come with this phase. She will look up to you, and the only way to make it comfortable for both of you is to be prepared and start early.
Here are some tips and facts that we have put together about puberty in girls. Use this information to initiate a casual conversation with your daughter.
Process of Puberty
Girls go through immense emotional and physical changes during puberty. However, psychological development may not happen at the same time.
Girls go through immense emotional and physical changes during puberty. However, psychological development may not happen at the same time. Emotional maturity may come before any physical development during puberty and vice versa. This is extremely normal as the sequence for changes of puberty can differ among girls. Every girl's body is different, and your daughter's experiences are likely to be unique too.
Puberty can last anywhere from 2 years to 4 years. Once it is completed, your girl is physically mature and ready to have a baby.
Be Reassuring
Use kind words and a friendly tone as you pick up the topic during a casual conversation.
When you begin to speak about puberty with your child, you must be reassuring. Use kind words and a friendly tone as you pick up the topic during a casual conversation.
Puberty can be too exhausting, and your daughter could end up feeling insecure if you make it formal. The ongoing changes can make her conscious of her appearance. Acne, mood swings, and body growth are some of the sudden changes that she will notice, which can be difficult for her to embrace.
It can be upsetting if she is not able to accept these emotional and physical changes comfortably. This is where you come in. Assure her that these changes are natural, that she is not alone, and that you are there to support her now and in the future.
The Period Talk
The most significant change that comes with puberty in girls is menstruation. Timelines can vary, but the average age of the first period can fall anywhere between 9 years and 13 years.
It is essential to emphasize that periods are a natural part of growing up, and there is no reason to be ashamed about it. It can come at an unexpected time, so she may be anxious at first. So, keep her prepared with sanitary care products like ALWAYS tampons and pads tucked in her school bag or dresser. You may prepare this menstruation kit together, during which you can also guide her about the usage of sanitary pads and other products.
Not a One-Time Conversation
You do not have to explain puberty to your daughter all at once. Puberty is a very vast subject and has several implications. For this reason, it is better that you share the information through smaller conversations from time to time. Flooding her mind with excess details in one go is not the best approach here.
Ongoing discussions will give her enough time to process the newfound information. Encourage her to ask questions, which will make these conversations healthier and more comfortable.
Being there for your daughter and always being ready for a conversation will open the door to discuss other important topics such as sexuality, relationships, pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and more. Building a good framework during this period is vital as it prevents shame and stigma.
Respect Her Privacy
As you monitor your daughter's development, you must also respect her privacy. Sometimes, she may simply not feel ready or comfortable to talk to you or anyone. This is completely okay, and you should avoid forcing it.
Reassure your daughter that you are always available, and she can approach you anytime for reliable information about changes during puberty. If you feel concerned or have specific questions about your child's development, you may consult a pediatrician who will help you trace out the process smoothly.
Puberty is a phase that brings with it a sea of changes, both physically and mentally. Your support during this period will mean the world to your daughter. Why not start today? You can explore a wide range of Always feminine hygiene products like sanitary pads, panty liners and tampons so that she has a happy period, Always!
Read more about puberty stage that every girl should know of.
Stay well prepared for your next period by tracking it on Always Menstrual Cycle Calculator.
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