Your changing body 13+
Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Children and Young People's Health Services
By the age of 13 it is likely that you have experienced some changes in yourself both physically (your body) and the way you feel about things (emotions).
This is your body’s response to the hormones which are being produced inside you and is a normal part of teenage development called puberty. Puberty usually takes place between the ages of 9 to 14 and can last up to 4 years. If you have worries or concerns about puberty or these changes you can speak to a trusted adult for support and advice, or explore the links below for more information.
It is normal at this age for you to think more about sex and relationships. The age of consent (the age which you are legally allowed to agree to sexual intercourse) in the UK is 16, however, from the age of 13 onwards you can access services for sexual health advice to discuss relationships and contraception. Read more about relationships and sexual health.
Some things you might experience
- Periods (menstruation) and learning how to manage them.
- Sexual arousal, wet dreams and masturbation (becoming sexually excited and self-touching).
- Wanting more time on your own and private space.
- Wanting to spend more time with your friends and seeking their advice on problems.
- Developing romantic relationships or wanting to have romantic relationships with others (this could be with the same or different gender to yourself).
- Questioning or wanting to explore your sexuality or gender identity.
- Seeking more information about sex and accessing sexual images such as pornography or taking part in sexting (accidentally or on purpose). Read our information about keeping safe.
What you can do to help
During puberty and teenage years your skin will produce more oils and sweat. To manage this it is important to maintain good hygiene. This includes washing hair and body regularly, wearing clean clothes and putting on deodorant. If you do not have the products you need to do this at home you can speak to a trusted adult for support and advice.
Hygiene is also important during periods. Read more about starting your period.
It can be a difficult time and you might experience strong and intense emotions (feelings) such as sadness or anger. You might find relationship with your parents/carers, teachers and other adults are different and the things you enjoy might change. Talk to a trusted adult about the changes you are experiencing and any worries you have.
It is really important to take good care of your mind and body right now. Read our information about sleep and making healthy choices.
Who can help?
For more advice about your changing body speak to one of our team.
You can Call Us on 0300 029 50 50 or Text Us on 07520 649887 to start a conversation.
Open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm (excluding bank holidays).
