Puberty is a time of change for girls and boys. Girls usually start going through puberty before boys. Puberty usually begins with her breasts and progresses to her starting her period. It is essential for her to understand the changes and learn about them from a trusted adult before she goes through them. This can help alleviate any worries she may have.
Step 1
Start talking to her early. According to the Cleveland Clinic, girls will start going through puberty around 10 years old. However, some girls may start earlier or later. Often, the first sign that puberty is starting is the development of breast buds. If you see these, it is time to start talking to her about the changes that are going on with her body.
Step 2
Set aside a private time to talk to her. A girl will usually be more comfortable talking to her mother or a trusted female adult about the personal changes that occur during puberty. Set aside some time to discuss puberty with her, and be prepared to answer questions.
Step 3
Explain that her breasts will develop slowly and that she will have to begin wearing a bra when this happens. Let her know that it isn't uncommon for the breasts to be tender while they are growing and that they may grow at different rates.
Step 4
Talk to her about body hair. Most girls will develop pubic hair first and then underarm hair. While you are talking to her, discuss shaving of the areas. Be sure to include a lesson on hygienic shaving practices, such as never sharing a razor.
Step 5
Discuss menstruation. It usually begins approximately 2 to 2 1/2 years after the onset of puberty, states the Nemours Foundation. Make sure that she understands that she will bleed vaginally and that it is normal. Discuss the use of pads and tampons with her. Let her know about PMS, including pre-period cramping, fatigue and bloating. Additionally, let her know that her periods may be irregular in the beginning but that they will usually settle into a pattern of once per month after a while. Also, discuss pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases with her.
Step 6
Touch on other changes that will occur. She will begin to store body fat in her hips, thighs and buttocks. She may also notice that her skin is more oily than it was before puberty and she may start to get pimples.
Step 7
Prepare her for her first pelvic exam. Many girls will have a full pelvic exam before graduating high school. She may also have a breast exam during the visit. Explain the procedures to her, and have her health care provider talk her through the procedure. Also, during her exam, ask the nurse or doctor to teach her how to do a breast self exam.
Step 8
Let her know that she can come to you with any questions she may have and keep the lines of communication open. Ask her periodically how things are going with the changes she is going through.
Tips and Warnings
- Girls and boys going through puberty are curious. As such, you may want to discuss male puberty with her to ensure that she understands the changes boys are going through. Split your talks about puberty up into a few sessions to give her time to focus on only one thing at a time.
