Puberty is when many youth first experience attraction. Some feel attraction to the opposite gender (heterosexual), same gender (homosexual/gay/lesbian), or all genders (bisexual/pansexual). Others feel little to no attraction (asexual). "Whoever you are attracted to is okay. You don't need to have a label right now."
The first sign for boys is usually testicular enlargement (around age 11), followed by penile lengthening and then widening. Penis size is determined by genetics, not by "exercises," supplements, or comparison. Average adult size varies greatly, and most boys worry unnecessarily.
: Females typically experience breast development, widening of the hips, and the onset of menstruation. Changes in Boys
Your sweat glands become more active, and you may notice a new, stronger body odor. Regular bathing and using deodorant can help. Changes Specific to Girls
Usually occurring about two years after breast development starts, the body begins its monthly cycle of shedding the uterine lining. Understanding the menstrual cycle is a vital part of health education. Puberty in Boys
For girls, the primary hormone driving puberty is estrogen. Key changes include:
Normalizing the changes of puberty reduces the shame or "weirdness" many feel during this time.
