Puberty & Self-Care for Girls, with special consideration for Autism

Daughter, you are slowly becoming a big girl. You know, as we grow up, our bodies start to change one by one. Maybe you have started to feel these things too. These changes are very normal, they happen to everyone. So there is nothing to be afraid of or ashamed of. In this article, we will talk about these changes, as well as how to keep your body beautiful and clean. Especially since our daughters who are autistic may need a little extra attention and help during this time, let's talk about that too.

What does it mean to grow up? Why do our bodies change like this? (Puberty in a nutshell)

You've been growing taller and taller since you were little, haven't you? In the same way, as you get older, usually between the ages of 8 and 13, your body is preparing to become a young woman. This is what we medically call ``Puberty''. Simply put, these changes are caused by small chemical messages (we call them ``Hormones'') coming from inside your body. It's like a little factory inside your body making new things. These changes don't happen all at once. They happen gradually, slowly. Some people may start these changes earlier, while others may be a little later. It varies from person to person. So don't worry if your friend starts these changes before you, okay? It's all normal.

What changes might be happening to your body these days?

Now let's take a look at what changes your body goes through during puberty. Some of these changes you may have already experienced, and some will happen in the future.

1. Increased oiliness of skin and hair

Do you remember how smooth your face was when you were a kid? Now that you're a little older, the skin on your face and scalp can become a little oily. That's why you can sometimes get small pimples on your face (Acne) . Your hair can also feel oily quickly. The reason for this is the previously mentioned (Hormones).

2. New hair growth (armpits, legs, private areas)

Your armpits, legs, and the area where you wear your underwear (we call it the ``private area'' ) are where new hair (also called pubic hair) starts to grow. It may start out very fine at first, but it can become a little thicker later. This is also normal as you get older.

3. Sweating and changes in body odor

You may feel like you're sweating more than before. Especially when you're playing or exercising. Along with that, your sweat may also have a slight odor. It's different, a little pungent than before. This is especially noticeable under the armpits . Don't be embarrassed because this is also a normal part of puberty.

4. Breast development

You will start to feel a slight change in your chest area. This means that your breasts will gradually get bigger.It starts. At first, you may feel like a small lump in your breast, and one side may get bigger than the other. This is also very normal. It takes time for your breasts to fully develop.

5. The beginning of menstruation (your `Period`)

This is something that many girls find a little disturbing. But it's also very natural. Your vagina (the opening in your private area, just below where you urinate) starts to bleed for a few days once a month. We call this menstruation . Or, as you call it , your period .

This is not a sign of illness or injury, is it? It means that your body is functioning healthily and you are ready to become a grown woman.

I would like to remind you again that not all of these changes will happen at once. And these things will not happen to everyone in the same way or at the same time.

How do we keep our bodies clean with these new changes? (Self-Care Routine)

Okay, now we know what's going on in our bodies. So how do we keep our bodies beautiful, clean, and smelling good with these changes? We have to add some new habits to that.

Skin and hair care

• Washing your face: Make it a habit to wash your face at least twice a day (morning and night) using a mild soap (`(Cleanser)`). When oiliness and dirt are removed, acne will also decrease.
• Bathing: It is very important to wash your body every day, especially on days when you sweat.
• Washing your hair: Depending on how oily your hair is, wash your hair with a shampoo that suits you, about every two days.

How to control sweat odor

As mentioned earlier, it's important to control the odor that comes from sweating.

• Bathing: Bathe every day with soap, especially under the armpits and clean the private area thoroughly.
• Underwear: Wear clean underwear every day.
• Deodorant or Antiperspirant: You can use a deodorant under your armpits after showering. Deodorant kills the bacteria that cause sweat and stops odor. Antiperspirant also reduces sweating. You can choose the one you like. Ask your mom or dad for help when choosing these.

Choosing and using bras for breasts

As your breasts begin to develop, you may feel some discomfort and pain. It may also be difficult for your breasts to move around when you run or jump. At this time, you can start wearing a bra .

• Breasts when wearing a braYou get good support and less discomfort.
• It may feel a little strange when you first wear it, but after a while it will become normal.
• Get your mom's help choosing a bra that's the right size for you, isn't too tight, and is made of a material like cotton. It's best to go to the store and try it on.

How to stay clean during menstruation

We need to be especially careful about cleanliness during the few days of our 'period'.

• Sanitary pads : These days you have to use sanitary pads. These are designed to be stuck to your underwear. Then the blood that comes out is absorbed into them.
• Changing pads: You should definitely change your pads at least every 4 to 6 hours. Otherwise, germs can build up and cause infections. Depending on the amount of blood, you may need to change them earlier.
• Cleaning: Every time you change your pad, wash the private area thoroughly with water, dry it, and then put on a new pad. If you use soap, use a mild, unscented soap.
• How to dispose of a used pad: Wrap the used pad tightly in paper and put it in the trash. Never put it in the toilet bowl, as it can clog it.
• Reduce pain: Some girls may experience mild stomach pain during their period. At that time, things like applying a hot water bottle to their stomach, doing light exercise, and drinking plenty of water can help. If the pain is unbearable, tell your mother to see a doctor.

Remember, your period is nothing to be ashamed of. If you have any questions about it, don't be afraid to ask your mom, dad, an older sister, or a teacher at school.

Extra support for our children with autism at this time

Our daughters with autism (also known as ``Autism Spectrum Disorder``) may experience the changes of this ``(Puberty)`` period a little differently. They may have difficulty understanding some things and adjusting to new habits. Therefore, our extra love, understanding, and support are very important for them during this time.

How to deal with sensory issues

Girls with autism may experience some senses (sight, hearing, smell, taste, touch) more intensely than others.

• New scents: The scent of new soaps, shampoos, and deodorants can be uncomfortable for them. So try to choose fragrance-free products.
• Underwear and pads: They may feel uncomfortable when wearing a new bra or pad because they are not used to the feel of the bra. Choose ones made of soft materials, such as cotton, as much as possible. Get used to them gradually.
• Hair growth: The itching and discomfort caused by new hair growth can be difficult for them to bear.
• Menstrual hygiene : The feeling of blood coming out and the feeling of the pad getting wet can be scary and uncomfortable because it is a new experience for them.

At times like this , patiently explain things to them, let them talk about what they're feeling, and seek advice from a doctor or therapist if necessary.

Helping you get used to new habits

New hygiene habits (like daily bathing and changing pads) can be difficult for them to suddenly understand and remember.

• Clear instructions: Provide simple, step-by-step instructions.
• Visual aids: Use pictures, diagrams, etc. to explain these practices. For example, you can show step-by-step pictures of how to change a pad.
• A consistent routine: They can get used to it more easily if they get used to doing these things at the same time and in the same way every day.
• Patience and encouragement: Praise and encourage them when they do something small and right.

Support in expressing opinions

Some autistic children have difficulty putting into words what they are feeling and their needs.

• Communication methods: Encourage them to talk about this using their preferred communication method (pictures, sign language , writing).
• A safe environment: Create a safe, understanding environment at home where they can ask their questions and express their feelings without fear or shame.
• Watch for changes: If there are any changes in their behavior (such as frequent tantrums, irritability, loss of appetite), it could be a sign of discomfort caused by these new physical changes. Keep an eye on them.

As a parent or guardian of a daughter with autism, you can talk to their doctor or therapist about this and provide them with the support they need to get through this time more easily.

An important message for you (Take-Home Message)

Daughter, when you become a big girl, your body goes through a lot of changes. But it's all very normal and natural .

• Be aware of your body and love it.
• Staying clean is very important for your health and your happiness.
• Don't keep these changes and your feelings bottled up inside. Talk to a trusted adult . It doesn't matter who it is, your mom, dad, teacher, aunt, uncle.
• Some things take a while to get used to. You have to be patient with yourself .
• You don't have to be everything to your friends. Everyone is different, everyone is special.

You are a valuable person in this world. Take care of your body like it's your own. Good luck!

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