The Top 3 Questions Parents Ask About Their Daughters and Puberty

By Dr. Rupa DeSilva

Puberty is a time of growth, and it can be confusing and awkward for parents and girls alike. Often parents don’t want to see their little girls growing up, and girls can be scared about all the changes. Here are the three most common questions that I’m asked.

1. How do I know if puberty has started?

The first sign of puberty in a young girl is breast development. The average age of breast development is 10, though some girls develop later and some develop earlier.

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Superhero Race Against Cancer –  6^th Annual (10K, 5K) to support the M Family Foundation

Sunday, September 25, 2022

Superhero Race Against Cancer, in support of the M Family Foundation, will be held in downtown Celebration on Sunday, September 25, 2022.  The M Family Foundation supports women and children with ovarian and pediatric cancer.  These two cancers are amongst the deadliest diseases facing women and children.

On Sunday, September 25, 2022, the M Family Foundation will host two races: 10K and 5K, both chipped and timed.  Strollers and children are welcome to participate in this event. We look forward to seeing you all at the finish line.

Not a runner or walker? There are many other ways to become involved with this fantastic event.  You can become a volunteer, become a sponsor, or become a donor. For additional information, head over to www.mfamilyfoundation.org.

Save the Date:

Fallen Heroes Tattoo-A-Thon – August 13, 2022

Fallen Heroes will be offering tattoos for $100. Tattoos are no larger than the bottom of a beer can and take approximately 30 minutes to complete.

By Dr. Rupa DeSilva

Puberty is a time of growth, and it can be confusing and awkward for parents and girls alike. Often parents don’t want to see their little girls growing up, and girls can be scared about all the changes. Here are the three most common questions that I’m asked.

1. How do I know if puberty has started?

The first sign of puberty in a young girl is breast development. The average age of breast development is 10, though some girls develop later and some develop earlier.

2. How old will my daughter be during her first period?

The average age of menarche in the United States is about 12 and a half. A girl’s first period is two years after breast development begins. The whole process varies from girl to girl.

3. Will my daughter grow taller after she starts her period?

A girl’s most significant growth spurt is typically just before she starts her period. A girl may grow slightly after she starts her period, but her major growth spurt is finished before the first period.

First ob-gyn visit

We recommend that a girl’s first ob-gyn appointment be between ages 13 and 15. This office visit allows a teen to get her questions answered and to start a relationship with the gynecologist. These conversations often will enable us to address any risky behaviors that might be on a girl’s mind, like drinking or vaping. Most girls don’t need a pelvic exam during their first visit.

Also, we want you to have the correct information as a parent. There’s so much available in the internet age, but it’s hard to know if your reading is accurate. When you get information straight from a medical professional, you’ll know that what you’re hearing is as correct and up to date as possible.