QUESTIONS, ANSWERS & TIPS FOR STUDENTS
Just attended a Candor puberty program but still have questions?
We're here to help! Below you'll find some answers to many of the questions that we've heard students (just like you) have had after our puberty programs!
Here are some areas many students still have some questions on:
General Puberty Info
QUESTIONS LIKE:
How long does puberty last?
When will you know puberty is done?
Does puberty hurt?
AND MORE...
Periods & Sperm Info
QUESTIONS LIKE:
How will I know when I have my period?
What if I get my period at school?
What happens when you don't have sperm?
AND MORE...
Body Hair & Body Odor Info
QUESTIONS LIKE:
Why do we grow more hair during puberty?
How much hair will grow during puberty?
Why do we get body odor?
AND MORE...
General Information About Puberty
Information About Periods & Sperm
Period Information
A person will know their period has arrived by either noticing a pinkish red or brownish red stain in the underwear. This bloody fluid may also appear on toilet tissue after a person wipes themself.
Most people lose between 2-3 tablespoons of blood during their period. People with heavy periods may lose twice as much.
Some people have cramping in the abdomen just before and during their menstrual cycle. Cramps can be mild for some and very strong for others. Anytime you feel pain you should confide in a trusted adult. There are things they can do to help alleviate the pain that may come from a menstrual cycle.
During your period, the uterus contracts to help push out the lining that is not needed. Chemicals in your body trigger these uterine muscle contractions, causing cramps. Not all menstruators will experience cramps.
First periods, and at the start of each menstrual cycle, the menstrual flow is not usually heavy, so you will likely know before your clothes become stained.
Teachers, counselors, and school nurses can be very helpful in supporting you at school if you need menstrual supplies, changes of clothes or support. Some students build a menstrual supply kit they keep at school (in a locker or backpack) containing menstrual supplies they can use if needed.
No. Tampons are just one of many different menstrual supply options. Each person gets to decide for themselves what option is best. A trusted adult can be helpful in finding the best menstrual supply for you.
There are directions on how to use a tampon inside the box they are sold in. Trusted adults, like parents and doctors can be very helpful in explaining how tampons work and answering additional questions.
Learning how to use a tampon can take some practice, just like anything new does. If it is put in incorrectly, it may feel uncomfortable. Just take it out and try again with a new one later.
Yes, and swimming, like other forms of physical activity (dancing, running, soccer), can decrease cramps. Win win!
Sperm Information
What is sperm?
Sperm is a reproductive cell.
Sperm is a reproductive cell that is produced by the testicles. Sperm is needed to create new life.
What is semen?
Semen is the fluid that contains sperm.
Semen is released from the penis in what is known as an ejaculation.
Why don't men have sperm when they are born?
Sperm is produced after puberty starts.
Testicles only start to produce sperm when puberty begins.
If I injure my testicle will I be able to produce sperm?
The body is resilient.
The body is resilient and often can recover from injury without any long-term side effects.
Whether or not you can produce sperm is only a question your doctor can answer.
Body Hair & Body Odor Information
Why do we grow more hair during puberty?
Hormones.
Hormones or chemical messengers released during puberty will result in hair growing on parts of the body where it was not before. Hair will grow in the private or pubic area, under the arm pits, and for some, on the face, chest, back and legs.
How much hair will grow during puberty?
We're all different.
It is normal for some people to have more body hair and others less. We are all different.
What do I do when hair starts to grow?
Body hair is normal.
Having body hair is normal. Some people choose to remove hair and some do not. Be sure to speak with a trusted adult to get permission before removing hair, and to learn how to do it.
Why do we get body odor?
More sweat with different chemicals.
Body odor is caused by a mix of sweat and bacteria on your skin. During puberty the body starts producing more sweat, and produces different chemicals in the sweat that gives it a stronger smelling odor. Body odor continues throughout your lifetime.
Acne During Puberty...It Happens.
Other Changes Happening During Puberty
Emotional Changes
Hormonal shifts that occur during puberty play a major role in how teens think and feel. As pre-teens and teens mature, they can experience increased irritability, intense sadness, and frequent frustration due to the chemical changes occurring within their bodies and brain.
There are many ways to deal with emotional changes that come along with puberty. The key is finding what works best for YOU.
Exercise in any form, journaling, talking to someone, spending time with people you enjoy, are all helpful in dealing with emotional changes.
Keep in mind that sometimes, emotional challenges can be too big for a person to figure out on their own. Trusted adults can be key in helping navigate challenging times. Not only do they have life experience, but they care about you and want the best for you.
Sometimes we hurt people, intentionally and/or unintentionally by our words and/or our actions. What is important is taking responsibility and apologizing when we do make a mistake.
Growth Spurt
A growth spurt is a rapid increase in growth. Once puberty begins, there is a sharp increase in growth of about 8 cm a year (averages in non-growth spurt years are typically 6 cm per year)
The best way to tell about how tall you will be is to look at the height of your parents and other close family members such as grandparents, aunts and uncles. If they are tall, you will likely be tall and if they are shorter there is a good chance you will be as well.
The timing on a person's growth spurt varies, just like the timing of puberty in general. A person will continue to grow until puberty ends.
Voice Changes
During puberty the larynx (voice box) grows and moves lower down your neck. Vocal cords also lengthen and thicken. These changes result in a deeper voice. The change is more noticeable for those individuals with a greater amount of the hormone testosterone.
Voice change happens to everyone, although it is more noticeable in some than others.
Breast Tissue
All people have breast tissue. How it grows depends on which hormone a person’s body produces more of.
People with more estrogen have a greater amount of breast tissue. When it grows, it grows out in front of the body. People with more testosterone typically have less breast tissue and it will stretch from side to side as shoulders broaden.
Breast tissue can be sore and tender while it grows
Some stores have sales associates that can measure a person for a bra that is supportive and comfortable. Another option is having a trusted adult help assist in finding the right fit and style for you.