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What is puberty?

• During puberty your body goes through physical and psychological changes as it becomes mature. This can be pretty overwhelming at times but there is support available. You can read more here.

When will I go through puberty?

• Boys usually start going through puberty between the ages of 10 and 18, with most boys noticing changes from 13-14 onwards.
• Often boys develop later than girls because they experience growth spurts towards the end of puberty, rather than at the beginning like girls.

What happens physically?

During puberty a boy will experience a lot of physical and emotional changes caused by the hormone testosterone.

Growing

• You will get taller and heavier, your chest and shoulders will get broader and your penis and testicles will get bigger.
• At around the same time you will find you are getting hairier, and will notice hair beginning to grow on your arms and legs, around your genitals, in your armpits and also on your chest.
• Hair will also start appearing on your face, around the chin and top lip. This is when many boys start thinking about shaving.

Sweat

• You will find that you sweat more than you did before and that it is smellier, causing body odour.
• There are deodorants available which can help, as can regular baths and showers.

Acne

• You will also find that you start getting more spots on your face.
• This is caused by hormones and is perfectly normal. The more severe form is called acne and doctors can help.

Voice

• As boys develop their voices get deeper, and this is known as your voice breaking.
• You might find that your voice is a bit unpredictable for a while and that when you speak it crackles, wobbles or changes pitch suddenly.
• This might feel a little embarrassing but is completely normal.

Erections

• All of a sudden it might feel that your penis has a mind of its own, and you will find that you have erections (hard-ons) more often.
• Some happen when you expect them, because you are thinking about sex and the people you fancy. Some erections appear for no reason at all!
• This can make you feel embarrassed or awkward, but usually no-one notices.
• You might get erections, and ejaculate (cum), in your sleep, and wake up with damp clothes or sheets. This is called a wet dream and happens to most boys.

What happens mentally?

Sexual feelings

• All the extra hormones in your body affect your mind as well, and you may find that you are becoming more interested in sex, start fancying people, and thinking about having a boyfriend or girlfriend.
• You may also be interested in exploring your own body and what feels good through masturbating (wanking).

Emotions

• Unfortunately not all your new feelings will be exciting sexual ones.
• You might find you become moodier, and have more arguments with your family and friends, or that you feel more confused and worried about things than you used to, because lots of things are changing.
• It is normal to feel like this and if you are worried it might help to talk things through with someone you trust.

If you have a question or you are unsure about anything then ask a Talksafe Counsellor or Peer Mentor.

Links

KidsHealth: Boys and Puberty

Last review: 02/06/11 - Next review: 02/06/13