Puberty – Physical Changes Females

The female body produces the hormones progesterone and oestrogen which kick start the process of puberty. Sexual development in girls can start anywhere between the ages of 8 and 14

Physical changes in girls include:

  • Nipples becoming fuller and bigger
  • Breasts grow
  • Changes in face and body shape – wider hips and less childlike face
  • Growth spurt and weight gain
  • Voice becomes slightly deeper
  • Hair grows and becomes darker on arms and legs
  • Pubic hair grows under arms and on vulva
  • Sweating more, greasier hair and skin and possible spots or acne
  • Vagina discharges a clear or slightly milky discharge – this is normal and helps to keep the vagina healthy
  • Ovaries release an egg which, if not fertilised by sperm, is broken down and shed with the lining of the womb. This is known as menstruation or a period

 

 

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