Puberty - it's like your body's natural upgrade process, and honestly, it's pretty amazing when you think about it. If you're wondering what's happening to your body or what to expect, you've come to the right place. Let's break down everything you need to know about this exciting (and sometimes confusing) time.

What Actually Is Puberty?

Think of puberty as your body's way of transitioning from childhood to adulthood. It's a totally natural process that usually kicks off between ages 8-14, though everyone's timeline is different, and that's perfectly normal. Your body knows what it's doing, even when it feels like everything's changing at once.
The magic behind all these changes? Hormones! These clever chemical messengers are working overtime to help your body develop, and whilst it might feel overwhelming sometimes, remember that billions of people have gone through exactly what you're experiencing right now.

The Amazing Changes Your Body Goes Through

Growth Spurts: One day you're eye-level with your mum, and the next you're towering over her! Growth spurts can feel like they happen overnight - embrace it, you're literally growing into the person you're meant to be.

Your Body Takes Shape: Your hips will begin to widen as your pelvis expands, creating those natural curves. Everybody develops differently, so don't worry if you don't look exactly like your friends - variety is what makes us all beautifully unique.

Breast Development: It's completely normal for them to grow unevenly at first. One might be slightly larger than the other for a while - this is your body's way of figuring things out. Remember that there's no "right" size or shape.

New Smells and Body Hair: Your sweat glands are getting activated, which means deodorant becomes your new best friend. Body hair will also start appearing in new places like your underarms, legs, and pubic area. This is completely natural and normal.

Skin Changes: Your skin might start producing more oil, leading to spots or even acne. Before you panic, know that this affects nearly everyone during puberty. A gentle skincare routine can help, and remember that this phase will pass.

The Emotional Rollercoaster: Suddenly finding yourself crying at TV ads? Welcome to the hormone surge! Your emotions might feel more intense during puberty, and that's completely normal. These feelings are valid, and learning to navigate them is all part of growing up.

Your First Period: What to Expect

Now, let's talk about periods - one of the most significant changes you'll experience. A typical menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days, though anywhere from 21-35 days is perfectly normal. Here's what's happening: your body is preparing for the possibility of pregnancy each month. When pregnancy doesn't occur, the lining of your uterus sheds, and that's your period.

Your first period might arrive anywhere from age 8-16, with the average age being 12-13. It might be light and irregular at first - this is your body learning the ropes. You might experience some cramping, mood changes, or other symptoms, and all of this is completely normal.

Meet the Libra Teen Range - Your Period Confidence Squad

Starting your period journey? We've got your back with products designed specifically for smaller bodies and first-time users:

Libra Teen Liners are perfect for lighter days, surprise leaks, or everyday discharge. They're breathable, soft, and flexible with a smaller fit designed for young, growing bodies. The anti-bunching BodyFit® design moves with you, plus each liner features a cute print!

Libra Teen Regular Pads may feel invisible but they offer amazing protection. With 4 layer InstaDry® Technology for lightning-quick absorption and an absorbent core that soaks up 10x its weight, you're covered! The BodyFit® shape and curved wings keep everything perfectly in place through every school day, sport session, and social hangout. Perfect for when you're still figuring out your flow.

Libra Teen Goodnight Pads are here to ensure you spend all night dreaming! With extra length and coverage, these overnight champions feature the same incredible 4 layer InstaDry® Technology and absorbent core that absorbs 10x its weight. The BodyFit® shape follows your body's contours whilst unique curved wings hold everything securely in place. Sleep soundly without worrying about leaks and wake up feeling fresh and ready to conquer another day! 

Libra Teen Tampons offer the ultimate freedom for active lifestyles! Whether you're swimming, dancing, or just want that barely-there feeling, these tampons are specially designed for smaller bodies and first-time users. They're shorter and narrower than our Body Fit Regular Tampons for the perfect fit and comfort, with a tapered tip for easy insertion and an anti-fluff base for smooth removal. 

Libra Teen Hipster Period Underwear offers up to 12 hours of protection and can hold up to 4 tampons' worth of flow! The moisture-wicking soft top layer absorbs blood and moisture fast, while 2 layers of super absorbent material work overtime to keep you dry. Plus, they're super breathable with a high-performance leak-proof barrier, so you can focus on being your amazing self without worrying about accidents.

Libra Teen Full Brief Goodnights Period Underwear provides up to 14 hours of protection with extra length and coverage for ultimate overnight confidence! Just like the hipsters, they feature a moisture-wicking soft top layer that absorbs blood and moisture quickly, 2 layers of super absorbent material, and that same super breathable, high-performance leak-proof barrier. Perfect for heavier flow days or when you want maximum coverage - they're designed to move with you while you sleep soundly!

Embracing This Amazing Journey

Remember, puberty isn't something that happens to you, it's something your incredible body does for you. Every change, every new experience, every awkward moment is preparing you for the amazing person you're becoming.

Your period is nothing to be embarrassed about, it's a sign that your body is healthy and working exactly as it should. With the right products and information, you can manage your period with complete confidence and continue doing everything you love.

Puberty might feel like a rollercoaster but remember, you've got this! Your body is doing something truly incredible, and you should feel proud of every step of this journey.

Love, Libra x
 
Essity Australasia makes no warranties or representations regarding the completeness or accuracy of the information. This information should be used only as a guide and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional, medical or other health professional advice.