Puberty. That magical (read: chaotic) time when your body turns into a science experiment, your emotions are on a rollercoaster with no seatbelt, and you suddenly feel like a completely different person. Sound familiar?
Well, brace yourself, because not only is puberty confusing, but the world is FULL of myths that make it even worse. The good news? I’m here to set the record straight. Let’s bust some of the biggest puberty lies you’ve probably been told, so you can stop worrying about things that don’t even matter (and focus on the real struggles, like why your favorite jeans suddenly don’t fit).
1. Myth: You Can Control When Your First Period Happens
Oh, wouldn’t that be nice? Imagine picking a convenient date, like “Let’s schedule it for never, thanks.” Unfortunately, that’s not how it works. Your first period is like an uninvited guest, it shows up whenever it pleases. You can be totally prepared with pads in your backpack or completely caught off guard in gym class (the horror). The best thing you can do is expect the unexpected and always carry a little “just in case” kit. Trust me, Future You will be grateful.
2. Myth: Only Boys Get Body Odor (LOL, Nope!)
If you’ve been wondering why you suddenly smell like a questionable gym bag after PE, congratulations! You’re human! Body odor isn’t just a boy problem, it’s an everybody problem. And guess what? Deodorant is your new best friend. Find one you love, wear it daily, and maybe keep a mini version in your locker. Bonus tip: Don’t just mask the smell, shower, change your clothes, and embrace the power of soap. You got this.
3. Myth: Shaving Makes Your Hair Grow Back Thicker
Who started this lie? Because we need to have a word. Shaving does not turn you into a werewolf. Your hair might feel thicker when it grows back, but that’s just because it’s blunt at the tip instead of naturally tapered. If you want to shave, go for it! If you don’t? That’s totally fine too. Just know that whatever you choose, it’s YOUR decision, not some fake puberty myth trying to scare you.
4. Myth: Your Boobs Will Stop Growing at the Same Time as Your Friends’
Puberty is NOT a synchronized swimming routine. Everyone’s body develops at different speeds, and that includes your chest. Some girls start early, some start late, and some keep growing well into their late teens (or even early 20s!). So if you’re constantly comparing yourself to your friends, STOP. Bodies are weird, unique, and completely unpredictable. The best thing you can do? Embrace the journey, wear a bra that actually fits, and remember that everyone is just as confused as you are.
5. Myth: Mood Swings Mean You’re ‘Crazy’
One minute you’re laughing at cat videos, the next you’re crying because your sock has a hole in it. Sound familiar? Yeah, puberty does that. Your hormones are basically throwing a party, and you weren’t invited to approve the guest list. But here’s the truth: Having emotions doesn’t make you ‘crazy’, it makes you NORMAL. The best way to deal? Give yourself grace, find healthy ways to cope (music, journaling, screaming into a pillow, whatever works), and remember that you’re not alone.
Final Thoughts: Puberty Is Wild, But You’ve Got This!
Now that we’ve busted these ridiculous myths, you can go forth and conquer puberty with confidence. It’s weird, it’s messy, and sometimes it’s downright annoying, but it’s also totally survivable. So tell me: What’s the biggest puberty myth you used to believe? Drop it in the comments, I need to know I’m not the only one who fell for these lies!