You & Your Changing Body

Opening questions

What does the word 'adolescence' mean to you?

What does the word 'puberty' mean to you?

What other things do you think of when you hear the word 'puberty'?

In a fun way, divide the girls into two groups. One group discusses the changes experienced by girls; the other discusses changes experienced by boys. Give them time to present.

Definitions

Adolescence, the time in everyone's life when they change from being a child to being an adult, roughly between ages 9 and 19.

An adolescent, a person growing from childhood to adulthood.

Puberty, the process of physical and emotional change during adolescence. Every individual experiences these changes in a different way and at a different pace. These differences are normal.

Hormones, chemical messengers that tell your body what to do and when to do it. They are responsible for pimples, body hair and voice changes.

NB: More emphasis should be put on menstruation. Girls may feel shy to speak in public, let them write anonymous questions on paper for the coach to answer.

Physical changes

Girls: growth spurt • oil and sweat glands become more active • underarm and pubic hair • hips widen • menstruation starts • voice softens • breast development.

Boys: growth spurt • oil and sweat glands more active • underarm and pubic hair • voice deepens • chest broadens • beards/facial hair may grow • penis and testicles increase in size.

Emotional and social changes

Girls and boys both: mood swings • developing feelings for the opposite sex • desire to fit in and belong (this pushes you to make more friends; as you grow, friendships become intentional) • some may experience low self-esteem, learn to appreciate your body the way it is and don't be embarrassed by the changes.

Menstruation

Menstruation is the monthly flow of blood from the uterus through the vagina.

Hormones cause the uterus to grow a lining of blood vessels hoping the egg (ovum) will be fertilised.

The first time you menstruate, you will feel some wetness in your knickers, that is blood. Always carry a sanitary pad or clean cloth to school.

Periods may last 3 to 7 days. Irregular periods are common during adolescence.

Talk to an adult you trust as soon as you get your first period. Wrap used pads in toilet paper and put them in the trash or incinerator, not in toilets or latrines.

Clean cotton cloths are also acceptable for those who cannot afford pads. Wash them daily and dry them under the sun, the sun kills germs.

Some girls experience cramps and PMS symptoms (bloating, pimples, breast tenderness, cravings, mood swings). Try a hot water bottle, exercise, and warm drinks.

A clear or milky white vaginal discharge 6 months to 2 years before the first period is normal.

Handling adolescence and puberty

1. Hygiene, bathe at least twice daily, wear clean clothes, wash panties, shave pubic and underarm hair.

2. Requests for sex, girls say boys constantly ask them. Learn to ignore. As a child, abstain from sex. Be assertive and say NO! Let your no mean NO. If a boy is getting mean, get away fast, tell an adult, and get help.

3. Defilement, girls are more prone to being defiled. Learn your environment: avoid dark places at night, move in a group with a brother or friend. Do NOT allow yourself to be touched inappropriately by any male, even a relative. If it happens, REPORT. If someone tries to force sex, scream for help.

4. Learn to support yourself, being a girl comes with many changes. Be kind to yourself. Love and get comfortable with your body. Maintain proper hygiene.

5. Self-control, attention from the opposite sex can be exciting, but focus on your studies. Dress well, avoid vulgar language, respect yourself and others.