Hormones and Health: What Every Teenage Girl Should Know
Pimples popping out on the face, strange body odor, body starting to change or getting more irritated than usual by your mother’s nagging - are these sounding familiar to you? If your answer is yes, then you might be experiencing puberty.
Puberty is a natural and important stage of life - it is a transition from childhood to adulthood, which is largely guided by hormonal changes in our body. Hormones are natural chemical messengers that help control how our body grows, develops and functions. During the teenage years, these hormones become more active, triggering the physical and emotional changes of puberty.
Understanding how hormones work can help our teenage girls feel more confident about the changes happening in their bodies.
When does Puberty Begin?
Puberty usually starts between the ages of 8 and 13 for girls, although everyone develops at a slightly different pace and also depending on genetics. The brain sends signals to the ovaries to start producing hormones (estrogen and progesterone).
These hormones cause many of the changes that happen during adolescence.
Changes You May Notice
Hormones lead to several normal changes during puberty.
Breast Development
Breast budding is often the first sign that puberty has begun. Bumps will start developing around the nipple area with occasional accompanying aching discomfort.
Skin Changes and Hair Growth
During puberty, androgens are produced by adrenal glands and ovaries. Coarser and darker hair begin to grow under the arms and around the vagina area. You may also notice an increasing sweaty smell around these areas.
These hormones can also stimulate oil glands in the skin, which cause skin pores to clog up and can lead to pimples (acne).
Growth Spurts
Under the influence of growth hormone, teenage girls may grow several centimeters in height within a year during their fastest growth phase. They may even be taller than boys of the same age during late primary/ early secondary school days, as boys tend to develop growth spurts later.
Body Shape Changes
The hips may become wider and the body may develop more curves. Girls tend to have an increase in fat mass around the hips and thighs too.
Menstruation (Periods)
Lastly, girls will experience the start of a menstrual period, typically between the ages of 10 and 15. This is called menarche. Once menstruation begins, the body follows a monthly cycle that prepares the uterus for a possible pregnancy. Hormones control this cycle. The initial few periods can be light or heavy, or sometimes skipping months in between cycles. This is normal during the first two years. Periods generally occur every 21 to 35 days and last 3 to 7 days.
All of these changes are normal, healthy signs that the body is developing.
Emotional Rollercoasters
Hormones can also influence how teenagers feel. It is common for teenage girls to experience:
- Mood swings
- Feeling more emotional than usual
- Irritability, anxiety or frustration
- Changes in sleep patterns
These emotional changes are a normal part of growing up - reflecting ongoing brain development. The adolescent brain, particularly the areas responsible for decision-making and impulse control, continues to mature into the early twenties.
Tips for a Smooth Transition during Puberty
Healthy lifestyle habits support balanced hormones and overall wellbeing.
1) Eat a balanced diet
Foods rich in iron, calcium, protein, fruits, and vegetables help support growth.
2) Stay active
Regular exercise supports mood, bone health, and energy levels.
3) Get enough sleep
Teenagers need about 8–10 hours of sleep each night.
4) Good hygiene
Daily showers and frequent change in clothing can help in reducing body odour. Girls with acne are encouraged to use gentle skincare products and to avoid squeezing them.
5) Manage stress
Activities like sports, music, reading, or spending time with friends can help relieve stress. Talking with trusted adults or healthcare professionals can also help when feelings become overwhelming.
Tips for Parents
Puberty can be a challenging time for both teenagers and parents. Talking about body changes and the female reproductive system may feel awkward, but it is important for parents to start these conversations early—before the changes begin. This helps girls understand what to expect in advance. That way, they will feel more prepared and less anxious when puberty starts.
Many people use terms like “private parts” or nicknames. But using the proper names such as “period”, “breasts” and “vagina” will normalize these topics. This can help our girls feel more comfortable and confident with the changes happening in their bodies. Contraception is also another important education topic for our teenagers (boys and girls!).
When to Talk to a Doctor?
Although most changes during puberty are normal, it is important to seek medical advice if:
- No breast budding by age 13 or periods have not started by age 15.
- Premature puberty: Also known as precocious puberty - puberty onset before 8 years of age in girls (9 years of age in boys).
- Periods: extremely painful or heavy. Or missing for a few months.
Severe acne. - Any concerns about body changes.
Puberty is not just a physical transition - it is an emotional and psychological journey too. Healthcare professionals can provide guidance and reassurance. Feel free to book an appointment with our friendly family doctors at your nearest Alpro Clinic.
References
- Alissa M. Guarneri et al (2019) Physiology of Pubertal Development in Females. Pediatric Medicine. 2019; 2:42
- Patricia Vuguin MD (2025) Puberty: Normal and Abnormal. American Academy of Paediatrics. 10. 1542
- David A.Klein et al (2017) Disorders of Puberty: An Approach to Diagnosis and Management. Am Fam Physician. 2017;96(9):590-599
