Adolescent reproductive health

The stage at which a person moves from childhood to adulthood is termed adolescence. During this stage there is a physical, emotional and psychological change that occurs. Every individual, boy or girl goes through this process. With boys, pubic hair at the armpit and face, enlargement of testes and penis, the breaking of voice, broadening of the chest are just a few of the changes that occur in boys. Whereas with girls, the breast develops, there is the broadening of the hips, growth in weight and height and most importantly menstruation starts.

The monthly flow of blood through the vagina of a woman is referred to as menstruation or period. Its occurrence is due to the shedding of the lining of the uterus (womb).

During adolescence of a girl, the following emotional and psychological changes are noted. Feeling of attachment to opposite sex (love), easily getting annoyed, feeling of excitement in social activities and adventurous feelings are common with girls.