Let's talk about these changes in your body (Puberty)? Especially for our daughter who has autism!

Daughter, you are slowly becoming a big kid. As you grow up, many changes occur inside and outside your body. This is what we medically call puberty . With these new changes, you may sometimes feel a little strange and scared. That is very normal, especially since it can be a little difficult for a girl like you who has autism to get used to new things. But don't worry, all this is because you are growing up healthy.

So what is this puberty?

Simply put, puberty is the time when your body gradually changes from that of a little girl to that of a young woman. Boys also become men during this time. These changes don't happen overnight, they happen gradually.

I said it's normal to feel a little scared when things change. So, if you know what's going to happen next, you can feel a little more at ease . If you have any questions, if you have anything on your mind, you should definitely talk to your mom, dad, doctor, or another adult you trust. They can help you.

What changes are happening on the outside of my body?

During this time, your body will also undergo several changes in its appearance. Let's take a look at what they are.

You are getting taller little by little.

Do you remember when your clothes got too short when you were a kid? That's what happens now. You start to grow taller. Maybe you're taller than your friends, or maybe they're taller than you. It varies from person to person , so don't worry about it. It's because your bones are lengthening. This is a good thing because it shows that you're growing healthily.

The skin becomes oily, acne appears.

Another thing is that your facial skin may start to become a little oily. Along with that , you may get small pimples . The reason for this is that hormones start working inside your body. Because of these hormones, the oil-producing glands in your skin start to produce a little more oil. So, that oil accumulates and pimples appear.

As an autistic girl, you may find this new oiliness of your skin, the feeling of acne, a little strange, and even uncomfortable. That's normal. You can control this by washing your face twice a day with a mild soap, and by keeping your pillowcases clean and washed regularly.When you get pimples, it's best not to pop them, right? That can lead to bigger blemishes.

Breasts are growing.

During this time, your breasts will start to grow. At first, they may feel like a small lump, but then they will gradually grow. Not everyone's breasts develop in the same way or to the same size . Just like we all have different faces and heights, there is no set size that says 'this much'. This is also normal as you grow into a woman. You may need to wear a bra, or bra, as your breasts get bigger. Talk to your mother about it.

New hair is growing on my body.

Apart from the hair on your head, you will start to grow new hair in other parts of your body. This hair mainly grows under your armpits, on your legs, and in the private parts that are covered by your underwear. This is also due to the influence of hormones. There is nothing to be ashamed of or afraid of growing this hair. It happens to everyone at some point.

As a girl with autism, the way this new hair feels can be a little strange, and it can even feel like it's being scratched. Wearing appropriate, loose-fitting clothing can help reduce this discomfort.

Sweating, sweat smells.

You will start sweating more than usual during this time, especially under the armpits. Also, that sweat may have a slight odor. This is because your sweat glands are more active during this time. The odor comes when the sweat combines with the bacteria on our skin. This can be controlled by washing your body daily, wearing clean clothes, and using a deodorant if necessary.

Are there any changes inside the body? Yes, menstruation is starting!

As well as the changes happening on the outside of your body, a very important change is also happening on the inside. That is when you start menstruating . Some people also call this "getting your period."

What is this menstruation?

Simply put, there is an organ inside your body called the uterus . That is where a baby is born. Every month, the uterus gets ready to receive a baby. The inner lining of the uterus thickens a little. However, if a baby is not born, that thickened lining gradually sheds and comes out of your vagina along with blood. That is what we call menstruation. This usually lasts for about 3 to 7 days.

"Oh, the thought of bleeding is scary!" you may think. But this is not an illness or anything to be afraid of.This means that your body is functioning healthily, and your body is getting ready to grow up and become a mother one day in the future.

What do you do when menstruation starts?

When menstruation starts, we use sanitary pads to prevent the blood from getting on our clothes. You can stick these in your underwear. When they get wet, that means you need to change them every few hours. Staying clean is very important during this time.

A sanitary pad may feel a little uncomfortable to a girl with autism. There are different types of pads with different softness. You can choose the one that suits you by talking to your mother. Also, since this is something new, it will take some time to get used to it. That's okay.

Sometimes, during your period, you may experience some period cramps. At such times, you may find relief by applying a hot water bottle or drinking something hot. Talk to your mother about this, she will give you more advice.

Mood swings: How are you feeling at this time?

Just as your body changes, you may also experience slight changes in your mind and emotions during this time. The reason for this is the hormones I mentioned earlier.

• Sometimes you may feel sad, angry, or very happy . This is called mood swings.
• You may now be interested in things that you weren't interested in before.
• It could be things like feeling a little shy or wanting to be alone.

This is all normal. Don't be afraid of your feelings. It's important to talk about your feelings with your mother, father, or someone you trust. They can help you deal with these feelings. Having autism can make it difficult for you to understand your feelings and express them to others. But try to say them in small words.

How to take care of yourself? Cleanliness and health

It is very important that you take good care of yourself during this time.

• Bathe daily: Bathing daily is good for reducing sweat odor and keeping your skin clean.
• Change underwear daily.
• Wash your face: Wash your face with a mild soap twice a day to control oily skin and acne.
• During menstruation: Change sanitary pads frequently and stay clean.
• Eat well, sleep well: With these changes in your body, it's essential for you to have good nutrition and adequate sleep.

Who are you talking about these things with?

Remember, you are not going through these things alone. There are people you can talk to about any problem, anytime:

• Your mom and dad: They are your greatest strength.
• Doctor or nurse: They have a great understanding of your body's changes and health problems.
• A teacher or other adult in the family you trust.

No question is a "stupid" question. Don't be afraid to ask anything on your mind, no matter how small. They will explain it in a way you can understand.

Finally, a few things to keep in mind:

Okay, so we've talked about a lot now, haven't we? These changes in your body (Puberty) are a very natural, healthy step in your journey of growing up.

• Don't be afraid of change: Everyone goes through this period. As a daughter with autism, you may need a little more time and support to get used to new things, and that's normal.
• Your body is precious to you: treat it with love and keep it clean.
• Ask questions: If you don't understand something or feel scared, be sure to ask a trusted adult.
• You are very special: with these changes, you will become an even stronger, more amazing young woman.

With all of this, I wish you the strength to move towards a beautiful, healthy future!

Puberty, Menstruation, Girls' Health, Autism and Puberty, Physical Changes, Hormones, Hygiene , Puberty, Menstruation, Autism, Girls Health