How your body changes little by little: What boys with autism should know (Puberty)

As you grow older, your body goes through many changes. This is what it means to grow up. We call this puberty, or in English, ``Puberty.'' This is a normal part of everyone's life.

What is puberty?

Simply put, puberty is the process of changing your body from childhood to adulthood. Boys become men. Girls become women. These changes happen gradually, little by little. Sometimes it can be scary when things change, and that's normal. Especially if you're someone who likes things to stay the same, these changes can feel a little strange. But knowing what's going to happen in advance can make you feel a lot better. If you have any questions, be sure to ask your mom, dad, doctor, or another adult you trust. That's the best thing to do.

When does puberty usually start for a boy?

This can vary from person to person. Typically, most boys start these changes between the ages of 9 and 14. But some may start a little earlier, others a little later. There's nothing wrong with that. Not everyone's body works the same way, right? So don't worry if your friend started these changes before you. These things will happen to you when your time comes.

What changes are happening to my body?

As you go through puberty, your body goes through many changes. All of this is healthy and normal. Let's take a look at what these changes are.

1. Facial skin changes

First, your facial skin will start to become a little oily. Along with that, you may also get small pimples on your face. We also call this ``Acne``.

• Why does this happen? The reason for this is the changing hormones in your body.
• What to do? It is very important to wash your face thoroughly at least twice a day. Most of the time, these pimples will go away after a while. But if they are very severe, it is better to see a doctor.

Think of it like your face is like a small garden. Sometimes small plants (pimples) appear. But if you take good care of it, you can keep that garden beautiful.

2. Voice change

Your voice will gradually deepen, which means it will start to sound a little heavier. Sometimes it may feel like your voice is suddenly going up and down when you speak. Don't be afraid of that.

• Why does this happen? The vocal cords in your throat ( the muscles that vibrate when we speak)This happens because the second part gets a little bigger. Just like when a musical instrument gets bigger, the sound it makes changes.
• After a while, this voice will become somewhat familiar.

3. Going up

You start to grow taller all of a sudden. Sometimes your clothes will also become too short. You may feel a little uncomfortable and your limbs may feel cramped as you grow taller. But that's normal. This is a good sign that you are growing well.

4. Body hair growth

Apart from the hair on your head, hair will start to grow on other parts of your body as well.

• You will have hair on your face (you may start to grow a beard), underarms , chest , and in the area covered by your underwear (`(Pubic area)`).
• You may also have a little more hair on your arms and legs .

This is also very normal. Some people may like it, some may not. It's your choice.

5. Sweat and body odor

You may start to sweat more than before, especially under your armpits, which can cause a slight odor.

• Why does this happen? Your sweat glands become a little more active. The smell comes when the sweat combines with bacteria on your skin.
• What to do? It is very important to shower thoroughly every day, especially under the armpits. You can also use a ``(Deodorant)``. This will help you stay clean and smell good throughout the day.
• Some people may find these new scents a little bothersome, especially if you are sensitive to scents. But you can gradually get used to it.

6. Differences in the genitals (`(Penis)` and `(Testicles)`)

Your sexual organs, namely your penis and testicles (also commonly called "balls"), begin to grow in size.

• Sometimes your penis can suddenly become bigger and harder. This is called an erection .
• This can happen at times you don't expect, out of your control. Maybe while you're sleeping, in class, or even just being there.
• This is something that happens to every boy and every man. Don't be ashamed or afraid of it. This isn't something that happens just when you think about sex.
• When this happens, try to hide it from others. It will return to normal after a while.
• Another important thing is ejaculation in dreams (`(Nocturnal emissions)` or `(Wet dreams)`).
• Sometimes when you wake up in the morning, your underwear or bed sheets may be wet. This is because a fluid called semen has been released from your penis while you were sleeping.
• This is also very normal. It means that your body is growing healthily. Don't be shy about talking to anyone about this. If you have any questions about this, ask an adult you trust.

7. Muscle growth

Your body's muscles are starting to develop. Your shoulders may become broader, and your arms and legs may get a little bigger. This is also something that happens as you grow into a man.

What about feelings?

Puberty doesn't just mean changes in your body. It can also mean changes in your mind and emotions.

• Your mood can change frequently due to the changing hormones in your body. You can be happy one moment, and then feel sad or angry the next.
• You may become more sensitive than before. You may get hurt and upset over even the smallest things.
• You may become interested in new things. You may even become interested in the opposite sex.

This is all normal. These feelings are not unique to you. Many people your age experience these feelings. The most important thing is to talk about these feelings with someone you trust.

How do I deal with these changes?

There are several things that can help you cope with these new changes. 1. Talk to someone you trust: This is the most important thing. Talk to your mom, dad, teacher, doctor, or any other adult you trust who will listen to you about your feelings and problems. Remember that you are not alone. 2. Stay clean: Take a shower every day. Brush your teeth. Wear clean clothes. Use deodorant. These things will make you feel good and healthy. 3. Develop good habits: Eat a well-balanced diet. Get enough sleep (at least 8 hours a day). Exercise. These things are good for both your body and your mind. 4. Be patient: These changes don't happen overnight. They happen gradually. So be patient. 5. It's normal to feel different: Not everyone goes through puberty the same way. The things you feel, the changes in your body may be a little different from others. That's normal. Especially for those of you with autism:

• It's normal to feel a little overwhelmed by new things and changes. You may feel uncomfortable when your routine changes.
• It can be helpful to be aware of these changes in advance. Perhaps a visual schedule with pictures and written down things you need to do about these changes (for example, taking a shower every day, applying deodorant) can help you.
• New smells (like sweat, deodorant), and new sensations (like new hair) can sometimes be a little overwhelming. At times like these, do something you enjoy and that makes you feel good (e.g., listen to a song you like, read a book).
• The most important thing is that if you have difficulty or something is hard to understand, you should definitely talk about it with an adult you trust.

Let's remember these things (Take-Home Message)

Okay, so let's recap the most important points from what we've talked about:

• Puberty is a normal, healthy thing that happens to everyone.
• There are a lot of changes happening in your body and mind. All of that happens as you grow up.
• These changes are happening one after another.
• If you have questions or are afraid, definitely ask an adult you trust. That's the best thing to do.
• Staying clean, eating well, and exercising are very important during this time.
• You are not alone in facing these things. Many others are going through this time just like you.

These changes in your body are part of your journey to becoming a bigger, healthier, stronger person. So be happy about it! The people around you are ready to help you in any way they can.

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Puberty, Boys, Autism, Physical_Changes, Mental_Changes, Puberty, Hormones