Is It Normal to Hit Puberty Early Or Late?

By: Lindsay Lam

If you're noticing changes in your body and wondering if it's normal to hit puberty early or late, you're not alone. Puberty is a unique experience for each of us, and it's important to understand that everyone develops at their own pace. Let's dive into what you might be experiencing and how to navigate this time in your life.

early bloomers: what to expect

If you're one of the first in your friend group to start puberty, it can be a little tough if you feel like no one else relates or understands what you’re experiencing yet. We get it and we’re here for you - there’s nothing wrong about starting a bit early! Some changes you might notice:

• Breast development: You might notice your breasts starting to grow, which is completely normal. This can happen as early as age 8, and some girls s

• Body hair: You might see hair growing under your arms or down there. This is also a normal part of puberty, and nothing you should be concerned about! Shaving is also completely up to personal preference - you shouldn’t feel pressured at all, but if it’s something you want to do, we’ve made videos on how to shave!

• Mood swings: Feeling happy one moment and suddenly upset the next? Hormones can cause emotional ups and downs, and it's okay to feel this way. Try your best to not let your mood affect the way you treat others, and always remember to take care of your mental health first. There’s no shame in asking for help when you want it!

late bloomers: it’s totally okay!

If your friends seem to be ahead of you in the puberty race, don't worry. You might compare yourself to others and wonder why you haven’t started your period, or why you don’t feel the need to wear a bra yet. But your body will develop in its own time, and there’s nothing you need to do to “speed up” the process. Here's what you might experience:

• Waiting for changes: It can be frustrating when it seems like everyone around you is developing faster. Remember, everyone grows at their own pace, and there's no right or wrong time for puberty to start.

• Height and body shape: You'll eventually see growth spurts and changes in your body shape. This can happen gradually over several years.

• Handling questions: Friends might ask if you've started your period yet or if you're experiencing other changes. It's okay to be honest about where you're at. If you haven't started your period yet, it doesn't mean anything is wrong—it just means your body is on its own timeline. Just remember that you can answer these questions if you feel comfortable, and no one should judge you if you don’t!

dealing with comparison and embarrassment

It's natural to feel embarrassed or self-conscious if you're comparing yourself to friends who seem to be further along in their development. Here's how to handle those feelings:

• Be patient with yourself: Your body will change when it's ready. Try not to compare your journey to anyone else's.

• Talk it out: If you're feeling embarrassed or uncomfortable, find someone you trust, like a parent, older sibling, or school counselor—to talk to about your feelings. They can offer support and reassure you that what you're experiencing is normal.

• Stay positive: Puberty is just one part of growing up, and everyone goes through it in their own way. If you’re a little older, maybe around 16 years old and concerned about why you haven’t started your period, you can always visit a family doctor for some reassurance!

understanding your body's journey

Puberty can start as early as 8 years old or as late as 14, and that's perfectly normal. Factors like genetics, nutrition, and overall health play a role in when you'll start developing. Your body is unique, and there's no one-size-fits-all timeline. However, it’s important to learn about puberty from trusted sources, especially if you haven’t been taught much about this topic from school. Understanding what's happening can make the process less daunting.

We’re here to navigate puberty alongside you! We go beyond designing bras for growing girls - we love answering your questions and being your big sister, because not every girl has someone they can talk to <3 

If there are topics you want covered, send us a DM on Instagram or email info@apricotton.co

About the Author:

Lindsay is a Health Science and Business student at Western University who loves cooking and enjoying the outdoors. She hopes that more girls can feel confident growing up, and totally wishes she had Apricotton bras as a teen!