Sequence, not schedule
Female puberty timeline
Most girls begin puberty between ages 8 and 13. Breast development, growth, hair, skin changes, and the first period overlap and vary in timing.
1
Breast development often begins first
One side may start earlier or grow at a different rate. Temporary asymmetry is common.
2
Pubic and underarm hair develops
Body odor, skin oil, and acne may also increase.
3
Height increases quickly
The fastest growth usually occurs before the first period, but exact timing varies.
4
Menarche, the first period
Periods may be irregular at first. A first period is not a measure of maturity or readiness for relationships or sex.
5
Development continues
Breasts, hips, hair patterns, skin, and cycles may keep changing over several years.
Talk with a pediatric clinician about unusually early changes, no signs of puberty by the usual age range, severe pain, very heavy bleeding, or other concerning symptoms.
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