The Facts on Becoming a Woman for Girls

Changes During Puberty

• Girls may begin puberty as early as seven and as late as 17, though most girls will begin puberty by the time they are 13, according to KidsHealth.com. Growth spurts commonly occur during puberty, with some children growing as much as four inches a year. The breasts also begin to develop according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Your daughter may be concerned if one breast is larger than the other, but this is normal. Pubic hair will also begin to develop, and your daughter may notice an increase in body odor.

Menstruation

• Puberty typically begins its decline with the onset of menstruation, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Girls typically begin menstruating around 12, according to Boston Children's Hospital. The average menstrual cycle is about 28 days, counting from the first day of the menstrual period, with menstruation typically lasting about a week. At first, your daughter's menstruation may be irregular or absent during the first year, according to Boston Children's Hospital Center for Young Women's Health.

Emotional Impact

• Because the body is undergoing so many physical changes, emotional changes during puberty may be overlooked. Anxiety and fear are common feelings as a girl's body makes dramatic changes, according to KidsHealth. Girls may also be fearful about gaining weight and taking on a more curvy shape. Preteens and teens may also notice that they feel more sensitive or upset than usual. Sexual interest and desire also often increase during puberty. Though these feelings may be unusual and new, they are a normal part of sexual development.

Additional Information

• Puberty is a complex process, and teens may be fearful that they are developing too slowly or too quickly compared to their peers. Though everyone develops at a different pace, your daughter's doctor may be able to provide reassurance and additional help.