Hi ❤️

This is a really common question, and the answer is that there isn't a specific age or breast size when you have to switch to a bra.

If you find your breasts need a little more support when you're running around, playing sports, or being active, or if they feel sore or tender, you may find a proper cupped bra more comfortable. Some girls also choose a bra when they notice a crop top no longer gives them the shape, coverage, or support they would like.

That said, there is absolutely nothing wrong with continuing to wear padded crop tops if they feel comfortable and give you the support you need. Even many adults with fully developed breasts prefer crop tops, bralettes, or soft padded tops instead of traditional bras.

The best guide is how you feel. If your current crop tops are comfortable, supportive, and make you feel confident, there's no rush to change. When and if you decide to try a bra, think of it as having another option in your wardrobe rather than a replacement.

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

That's a really good question, and the honest answer is that breasts can continue developing into your late teens and even your early twenties. Puberty doesn't happen overnight, and everyone develops at their own pace.

You may notice changes in your breasts for several years after they first start growing. Even once they're fully developed, their size and shape can still change throughout life. For example, some girls and women notice their breasts feel a little fuller before a period, and changes can also happen with weight fluctuations, pregnancy and ageing.

Breast size is mostly influenced by your genes, body shape and natural development, so there isn't a set age when everyone's breasts reach their final size. We are all different, and comparing yourself to friends can make it seem like you're behind when actually you're developing perfectly normally.

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

There isn't a specific day of your period when you must start using tampons. You can try them whenever you feel ready and comfortable.

Many girls find that day 2 or 3 of their period is the easiest time to begin using a tampon because the flow is often a bit heavier, which can make insertion more comfortable. If your flow is very light, a tampon can sometimes feel a little dry or uncomfortable when you remove it.

Before using a tampon for the first time, make sure you:

• Read the information leaflet inside the box.
• Choose the lowest absorbency suitable for your flow.
• Wash your hands before and after inserting or removing a tampon.
• Relax and take your time. It can feel a little awkward at first, and that's completely normal.

If you can feel the tampon once it's in place, it may not be inserted quite far enough. A correctly inserted tampon should usually be comfortable, and you shouldn't really notice it's there.

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

Vaginal discharge is completely normal and is one of the ways your body keeps the vagina healthy and clean. You do not need to try to wash discharge from inside your vagina.

When washing, simply clean the vulva (the outside area of your genitals) once a day with warm water. If you prefer, you can use a gentle, fragrance-free wash designed for sensitive skin. You can also use a fragrance-free feminine wipe when you're out and about, but plain water is usually all that's needed.

Avoid putting soaps, washes or wipes inside the vagina, as this can upset its natural balance and may cause irritation.

If discharge dries on the skin, gently washing the area during your normal daily wash is enough. Wearing breathable cotton underwear and changing it daily can also help you feel fresh and comfortable. ❤️

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

This is such a good question because understanding your menstrual cycle can feel a little confusing when you're new to periods.

Lots of girls and women use a diary, calendar, or period-tracking app to keep track of their periods. The first day of your period is counted as Day 1 of your cycle. When your next period starts, count how many days have passed since the first day of your last period. This number is the length of your menstrual cycle.

For example, if there are 28 days between the first day of one period and the first day of the next, you have a 28-day cycle. A typical menstrual cycle can be anywhere from 21 to 34 days long.

However, during the first few years after your periods begin, they can be quite irregular. You may find that your cycles are different lengths each month, and that's completely normal. It can take time for your body to settle into a pattern.

Because of this, it's always a good idea to carry a few period pads or pantyliners with you when you're out and about, just in case your period arrives unexpectedly.

Remember, every girl's cycle is different, and it may take a while before you notice a regular pattern.

My First Period: What To Expect | Lil-Lets

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

It's very common to worry when your second period doesn't arrive when you expect it to, but periods are often irregular during the first few years after they start.

Many girls have long gaps between periods at the beginning, sometimes several weeks or even a few months. This happens because your body is still learning how to manage its new hormones and establish a menstrual cycle that's right for you.

You may find that one period comes after four weeks, while the next takes much longer to appear. That's completely normal during puberty and usually isn't a sign that anything is wrong.

Be patient with your body. Everyone develops at their own pace, and it can take time for periods to settle into a more regular pattern.

My top tip would be to always keep some pads or a period kit with you from now on when away from home, so you are always prepared.

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

It sounds like you've been having a really tough time lately, and I'm glad to hear that you're getting support and looking into medication. Reaching out for help is a positive step.

Yes, it's okay to have a few days off school if you're struggling with anxiety, especially if your parents feel it's what you need right now. Mental health is just as important as physical health. If you had the flu, nobody would think twice about you resting and recovering, and the same can be true when anxiety is feeling overwhelming.

That said, a few days off is usually most helpful when it's used as a chance to rest, recharge and access support, rather than avoiding school altogether. Sometimes anxiety can grow if we're away from the things we're worried about for too long, so when you're feeling a bit stronger, gradually returning to your usual routine can help build confidence again.

From what you've said, it sounds like your parents are taking your feelings seriously and trying to support you, which is lovely to hear. Use these days to be kind to yourself. Get plenty of sleep, eat regularly, spend some time outdoors if you can, and do things that help you feel calm and safe.

Most importantly, remember that anxiety is something many young people experience, and it can get better with the right support. 

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

Firstly, congratulations on starting your period!

Around 12 years old is a very common age for girls to get their first period, so you're certainly not alone. It can feel a little strange, exciting, confusing, or even a bit scary at first, and all of those feelings are completely normal.

I hope you're feeling prepared and have some period pads or pantyliners available when you're out and about, just in case. It can also help to let your mum, dad, guardian, or whoever looks after you know that your period has started so they can support you if you need anything.

Remember, your periods might not be regular straight away. For the first few years, they can arrive early, late, be lighter one month and heavier the next. That's completely normal while your body settles into its new rhythm.

And of course, you can always come here and ask me anything you're worried about or don't quite understand. There are no silly questions when it comes to periods, puberty, and growing up. Chances are, if you're wondering about something, lots of other girls are wondering the same thing too!

You may also find my blogs helpful if you'd like to learn more about first periods, period products, period cramps, and all the other changes that happen during puberty.

My First Period

Welcome to the period club! 💖

Hi ❤️

If you genuinely think of this boy as a friend in the same way you think of your girl friends, then it's understandable that you might feel comfortable around him and not think much of it.

What matters is that you feel safe, comfortable and respected, and that he sees the situation in the same way. Friendships can be different for everyone, and some friends are naturally more relaxed around each other than others.

It's also worth remembering that not everyone feels comfortable being naked or changing in front of friends, regardless of whether they're boys or girls, and that's okay too. We all have different boundaries. The important thing is that you're never doing anything because you feel pressured, and that both people are happy with the boundaries of the friendship.

From what you've said, it doesn't sound weird. It sounds like you trust him and feel comfortable around him. Just keep checking in with yourself about what feels right for you, and make sure that trust and respect go both ways.

Healthy friendships are built on feeling safe, respected and able to be yourself.

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

This isn't a stupid question at all. Break-ups and changing feelings can be really confusing, especially when someone has been a big part of your life.

From what you've said, I think the first thing to ask yourself is whether you miss him, or whether you miss having someone to text, think about, and spend time with. Those can feel very similar, but they're actually quite different.

It sounds as though you no longer have the same romantic feelings you once did, but now there's a bit of a gap where that relationship used to be. When we're feeling bored, lonely, or at a loose end, it's completely normal to start missing an ex, even if getting back together isn't what we really want.

You may find it helpful to fill your diary with things you enjoy for a couple of weeks. Arrange to see friends, spend time with family, focus on hobbies, or try something new. Then see how you feel. If you're still thinking about him and genuinely miss his company rather than the relationship itself, that tells you something important.

If that's the case, there's no harm in reaching out to see how he is. Just be honest with yourself first about what you want. If friendship is all you're interested in, make that clear from the start so he doesn't get the wrong idea or think you're hoping to get back together.

And remember, life feeling a little boring after a crush or relationship ends doesn't necessarily mean you've made the wrong decision. Sometimes it just takes a while to adjust to having that space back in your life.

Be kind to yourself. Relationships come and go, but learning what you want from them is all part of growing up. ❤️

Hi ❤️

Firstly, can I just say that you sound like an amazing young person. Balancing school, sports, clubs, rehearsals, friendships and everything else that comes with being a teen is no small thing!

You're also absolutely right that being very active can sometimes affect your periods. When your body is putting lots of energy into training, competitions, performances or other demanding activities, it may occasionally decide that a period isn't its top priority. As a result, your periods might come later than expected, become irregular, or even skip a month from time to time.

From what you've said, it sounds like you've noticed that changes in your training and weight can sometimes affect your cycle. Many athletes and very active teens experience this, and it doesn't necessarily mean there's anything wrong. Our bodies are constantly adapting to what we're asking them to do.

That said, it's still important to look after yourself by eating enough nourishing food, staying hydrated, getting plenty of rest, and giving your body time to recover between activities. If your periods stop for several months, become very irregular, or you're worried about any changes, it's always worth having a chat with a parent, guardian or healthcare professional.

I also love the message you shared for other readers. Being a teen girl can feel overwhelming at times, and it helps to know you're not the only one juggling a million things at once. So I'll echo your words:

To anyone reading this, you're not alone. Things won't always feel this busy, stressful or confusing. Be kind to yourself, take things one day at a time, and remember that nobody has everything figured out.

Keep doing the things you love and remember to give yourself credit for everything you're managing. 

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

Yes, it can! Pubic hair, underarm hair and leg hair can all turn grey or white as we get older, just like the hair on our heads.

Hair gets its colour from a pigment called melanin. As we age, the cells that produce this pigment can slow down or stop working, which is why some hairs start to look grey, silver or white. This doesn't just happen on the scalp. It can happen to hair anywhere on the body, including the pubic area, underarms and legs.

Not everyone notices it though. Some people develop grey hairs quite early, while others keep their natural hair colour for much longer. We are all different, and ageing affects everyone differently.

So the short answer is yes, pubic hair and leg hair can go grey or white as you get older, just like the hair on your head.

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

It can be really confusing trying to work out whether a boy likes you because everyone shows their feelings differently.

Some boys are very obvious and will find reasons to talk to you, spend time with you, or always seem to be nearby. Others can be much harder to read. In fact, some boys get so nervous around someone they like that they might tease you, act awkward, or even pretend they don't like you at all!

You may also notice that a boy goes a bit red when he sees you, struggles to find the right words, laughs more than usual, or seems extra interested in what you're doing and saying. Sometimes they'll remember little details you've told them or try to make you smile.

The truth is there isn't one sign that guarantees a boy likes you. Everyone behaves differently when they have a crush, especially during the teen years when confidence can be all over the place.

It can help to look for a pattern rather than focusing on one thing. If he regularly seems interested in you, enjoys being around you, and makes an effort to get your attention, there's a good chance he likes you.

Vicki ❤️

Hi, we do sometimes offer a sample pack of our teens range. If you would like to receive one, please click on the Contact Us tab, send over your name and address and if you are under the age of 16 please confirm you have your parents or guardians permission.

Hi ❤️

No, that's a myth. There is no medical reason why you can't use a tampon before you've had sex.

Being a virgin simply means you haven't had sexual intercourse. It doesn't affect whether you can use tampons. Many girls choose to use tampons for sports, swimming, dancing, or simply because they find them comfortable.

Some people worry that using a tampon will affect the hymen, but the hymen is a thin, stretchy piece of tissue that naturally varies from person to person. Everyday activities such as sport, cycling, gymnastics, and tampon use can stretch it, and its appearance isn't a reliable way of telling whether someone has had sex.

If you're thinking of trying tampons for the first time, it can help to start with a small-sized tampon and take your time. Relaxing as much as possible can make insertion easier and more comfortable.

So, if you want to use tampons before being sexually active, that's absolutely okay. The choice is yours.

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

It's completely understandable to feel nervous about that, but a tampon can't just fall out on its own when it's inserted correctly.

The vagina isn't an open space. It has natural folds and muscles that gently hold the tampon in place. Once the tampon is sitting in the right position, your body helps keep it secure until you're ready to remove it.

When it's time to take it out, you simply gently pull on the string, and the tampon will slide out. Coughing, sneezing, jumping around or going about your normal day won't usually make it fall out.

If a tampon does feel like it's slipping down, it's often a sign that it hasn't been inserted quite far enough or that it's not the right absorbency for your flow.

Many people worry about this when they first start using tampons, but once you've used them a few times, you'll probably feel much more confident about how they work.

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

If you can feel a tampon when it's inside you, especially when you're sitting, walking or moving around, it usually means the tampon hasn't been inserted quite far enough into the vagina.

A tampon should sit comfortably inside the body, and when it's in the right position, most people can't feel it at all. If it feels uncomfortable, you can either:

• Gently push it a little further in with a clean finger (if you're using a non-applicator tampon).
• Remove it and try again with a fresh tampon.

It can take a bit of practice to get used to inserting tampons, so don't feel discouraged if it doesn't feel right the first few times. Many people need a few attempts before they find what works best for them.

If you've inserted the tampon as far as it will comfortably go and you can still feel it, it may be worth trying a smaller tampon size, especially if you're new to using them.

Lots of first-time tampon users experience this, so you're definitely not alone. With a little practice, it usually becomes much easier and more comfortable.

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

It's actually very rare for someone to never get a period at all. Most girls will start their periods at some point during puberty, but the age it happens can vary quite a lot from person to person.

Some girls start as early as 8 years old, while others don't get their first period until their mid to late teens. Both can be completely normal. We are all different, and our bodies follow their own timetable.

Doctors only tend to become concerned if a young person gets much older (18+) and still hasn't started their period, especially if they're showing other signs of puberty. In those situations, they can check whether there's an underlying reason.

From your questions, it sounds like you're spending a lot of time thinking about your first period and when it will arrive. That's completely understandable! Many girls go through a stage of checking for signs and wondering when it will happen.

The important thing to remember is that your body knows what it's doing. Your first period will arrive when your body is ready, and until then, there's no need to compare yourself to friends or classmates.

And when it does arrive? I have a feeling you'll be far more prepared than you think.

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

It might surprise you to hear this, but lots of girls feel exactly the same way. Sometimes the thought of starting your period feels scary, even when you can't quite explain why.

Periods are one of those things that can seem like a really big deal before they happen. You hear people talking about them, read about them online, and wonder what it will be like for you. It's completely understandable to feel nervous about something new.

The reality is that your first period is simply another step in your puberty journey. It means your body is growing and developing just as it should. You don't have to feel excited about it, and you don't need to have everything figured out right now either.

Many girls tell me that they spent ages worrying about their first period, but when it finally arrived, they realised it wasn't nearly as frightening as they had imagined. Having a few period pads ready and knowing the basics can make you feel much more confident when the time comes.

For now, be reassured that what you're feeling is incredibly common. The fact that you're reading about periods and learning what to expect means you're already more prepared than you think. 💖

Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

Yes, 10 hours of sleep is completely normal for a 9-year-old. In fact, children your age generally need around 9 to 12 hours of sleep each night, so 10 hours sits comfortably within the healthy range.

As we grow, our bodies are doing lots of work behind the scenes. Not only are we getting taller and stronger, but our brains are learning and processing huge amounts of information every day. That's why sleep is so important.

If you're getting 10 hours of sleep and:

• Waking up feeling rested
• Managing school okay
• Having enough energy to play and be active

then there's usually nothing to worry about.

Sometimes children and teens go through phases where they need a little more sleep, especially during growth spurts, after being busy, or if they've been unwell.

Try not to worry. Getting a good night's sleep is actually a sign that you're looking after your body well. 😊

Vicki ❤️