Puberty usually begins earlier in girls between the ages of 8 and 13 than in boys, when it starts between 10 and 14. During this period, many physical and psycho-emotional changes are observed in both sexes. For larger girls, puberty starts earlier, while for those with a significantly lower weight, it may be delayed. The beginning of this period can vary, depending on the development of the organism. However, if the girl’s breasts did not begin to develop until the age of 12 or the first menstruation did not appear until the age of 15, a consultation with a doctor is recommended to determine the reason for the delay. What changes occur in the body? One of the first manifestations of puberty in girls is the development of breasts. The appearance of a rounded thickening in the area is noted, which usually appears between the ages of 8 and 13. Girls’ nipples could also experience some changes in color and size. They may be pink or more brown, and hair may begin to appear around them. Breast size depends on genetic factors as well as the girl’s weight. In many cases, the increase in the size of both breasts may be uneven and pain may occur in them. These sensations are normal for the period of their development. The next stage of development involves the appearance of hair in different areas of the body, for example, legs, arms, armpits, pubic area and face. In the beginning, the hair is sparser, but over time the hair thickens and thickens. Removal of this hair is not required for medical reasons, but according to the girl’s preference. Due to the increased interest in depilation of different parts of the body, it is important that the girl is informed about the correct ways in which she can do it without harming her skin. The next stage of a woman’s development is the onset of her menstruation. After the appearance of the first menstruation, the woman could become pregnant. Menstruation is the regular discharge of blood and mucous tissue from the inner lining of the uterus through the vagina. The menstrual cycle is characterized by the rise and fall of various hormones. The amount of blood shed during a period is not very large. However, in the beginning, some girls might feel dizzy and tired. The color of the blood can vary from bright to dark red. The first two days, it is possible that menstruation will be more abundant and accompanied by abdominal pain. Ibuprofen or other pain relievers can be used to manage this pain. Usually the periods between two periods – menstrual cycle – is 28 days, but this period can vary for each woman from 21 to about 40 days. It may be irregular at first. A consultation with a doctor is required in the absence of menstruation after a period of 3 months. During the menstrual cycle, in the absence of bleeding, the cervix produces other secretions,which may be clear or cream in color. This secretion is released through the vagina and can be observed on the underwear. In these cases, maintaining good intimate hygiene is important. It can be achieved by regularly washing the intimate area and using daily pads. Changes in hormone levels can also cause acne and oily skin. This is normal during puberty. It is important not to squeeze individual papules and pustules, as this can leave scars on the skin or cause more serious problems. A consultation with a dermatologist is necessary for good acne control. Most girls experience a growth spurt around the time their breasts begin to develop. After the appearance of the first menstruation, growth begins to slow down. There is an increase in the hips and a decrease in the waist. Puberty is an important stage in the development of every woman. This process is strictly individual and leads to various changes – physical and emotional. For this reason, it is important that girls do not compare the different stages and physical changes with each other. References: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/puberty-for-girls https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/gradeschool/puberty/Pages/Physical-Development-Girls-What-to -Expect.aspx