Menstruation is a special moment in a girl's life when she officially becomes a woman. Biologically, she is able to carry a child but emotionally, she may be scared. Some girls are frightened of the thought of bleeding every month, while other girls are excited about this new transition in their lives. Mothers plan for this special moment and talk to their daughters about puberty, a term used to describe the various changes that occur in their bodies.
Brain Changes
Before getting your first period, your brain will release a hormone (chemical) called gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) when you are 8 to 13 years old. Puberty starts differently for everyone. According to Teens Health, this hormone works on your pituitary gland (a pea-shaped gland located in the brain) to release other hormones into the blood called luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). These hormones then act on different parts of your body.
Breast Development
Before you get your first period, your breasts will begin to change. According to the Center for Young Women's Health, there are five stages of breast development. The breast begins as a small mound of tissue called a breast "bud." The areola (area surrounding the nipple) begins to darken. Breasts will remain tender as they continue to grow in size. Each breast can grow at a different rate, so do not be worried if your right and left breast look different from each other.
Hair Growth
Before you get your first period, you should expect an increase in hair growth under your arms and in your pubic region (around your genital area). There are also five stages of pubic hair growth. Initially, the hair will be sparse and light in color and later, the hair will darken and become heavier in growth, according to Teens Health.
Growth Spurt
You will also get taller and gain more weight. According to the Center for Young Women's Health, you will experience this growth spurt at least one year before the start of your period. Initially, your hands and feet grow first and then your hips and rest of your body will grow as well.
Vaginal Discharge
A year before getting your first period, you will notice a white or clear discharge from your vagina. According to Medline Plus, this is normal and should not cause alarm. This serves to moisten your vagina before the onset of your first period.
