Questions about bodies changing
Q.My breasts are weird. One of them is a little bit bigger than the other one. Why is that? Is it OK?
12-year-old female
Mary Jo’s response:
Yes, it is OK. Our body parts aren’t usually symmetrical (perfectly the same). Our ears aren’t exactly the same, our feet aren’t exactly the same, and our hands are a little bit different. It makes sense that a woman’s breasts wouldn’t be exactly the same, either. Our bodies are beautifully and wonderfully made. Your body is perfect for you.
What a great question! I’m also pleased that you’re aware of your breasts. As you mature it’s important to grow comfortable with your body. Noticing changes in your body is an excellent way to focus on your health and wellness. Right now your body is experiencing the changes of puberty. Breast development usually starts with “budding,” which means slight swelling happens around the nipple. In time, a girl’s breasts grow, and it is common for one breast to grow faster than the other. By the time a woman is 19 or 20, the growth usually evens out.
My only suggestion would be to ask you to seek a trusted adult in your family – maybe your mom, your grandma, your aunt – to help guide you through adolescence. I’m happy to be there for you, but the truth is a family member will love you and know you well. I know it can feel awkward talking with a parent. It’s amazing how much it helps to have open conversations with a mom or dad. Your mom can share her own growth and development and reassure you that all is well. Good luck.
Q.I’ve had my period for about a six months. I’m OK with it. But this is the first summer I’ll have it. My mom and me were laughing and she said that in all of her life she seems to get it when she goes to the beach. So then we looked at my calendar and guess what? Yep. Like the week we’re supposed to be on vacation it looks like I might have it. My mom said maybe I should consider using a tampon. I’m a little scared of that, but I think maybe she’s right. Will I do it wrong? What if I hurt myself?
12-year-old female
Mary Jo’s response:
Your questions are normal. Most people feel anxious before trying something new. Many young women feel awkward talking about their bodies. I’m thrilled that you are able to talk with your mom. When you described laughing with her I thought, wow, I wish every 12-year-old could laugh about awkward moments with a parent. Tell your mom she’s a great parent.
Your body is amazing. If you’re ready to use a tampon, I recommend using one for the first time when there’s no pressure. In other words, don’t wait until the beach trip. Do make sure you’ve started your period before you try. I’ve known girls who thought they’d “practice” using a tampon before their periods – not a good idea. Relax your body. Ask your mom for hints. Many websites give instructions for first tampon use, but I liked this one from Boston Children’s Hospital the best: http://www.youngwomenshealth.org/tampon.html. The site reviews anatomy (the way your body looks) and answers questions. It is very reassuring. You could check out the site with your mom. I believe you need to be grown up enough to use the tampon yourself, though. Touching your body to use the tampon is OK – your body is yours.
Keep talking with your mom and enjoy the beach this summer.
Youth Champions:
I’m proud to share that I’m a Rotarian. Rotary clubs serve communities around the world. The Rotary Club of Washington exists to bring together men and women of diverse vocations and high ethical standards to foster fellowship, understanding and goodwill through local and internal service projects. The Rotary motto is “Service above Self.” More information is available at http://rotarywashpa.org/
This week the Rotary Club honored local young people for their academic achievement. Congratulations to all! It gives me great joy to share their accomplishments:
Rotary Academic Achievement Awards were presented to: Brennon Wood (Avella High School), Aidon Walsh (Burgettstown High School), Rebekah Welesko (Fort Cherry High School), Drevin Galentine (McGuffey High School) and Kristen Wilson (Washington High School).
Shane Coffield (Trinity High School) received the Dr. Douglas A Masciola Academic Achievement Award.
Nathan Michaux (Washington and Jefferson College) received the Dr. David K. Scarborough Academic Achievement Award.
The Clyde J. Tracanna/Washington Rotary Club Educational and Vocational Fund Scholarship Awards (in partnership with the Washington County Community Foundation) were presented to Kelly McCosby (McGuffey), Robin Crowley (Trinity) and Samuel Wisker (Washington).