I do have a little experience when dealing with pimples and my advice is to leave them be. Spots are common during puberty at sebaceous oil glands start to produce more sebum, the natural oils that keep the skin moisturised.

If they are red, angry and itchy it's because they are in their early inflammatory stage, during this time picking, squeezing or using harsh skin products will only make them even more visible and angry. 

So, my tip would be to use a clean, cold damp cloth to reduce the redness and irritation. Keep your hair away from the forehead as the natural oils on the hair can transfer making the spot more aggravated. If you can also wash pillow cases every week this will also help keep the area clean. 

Spots are a normal part of puberty, and they don’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. Even with the best skincare routine, hormones can still cause breakouts that come and go, and that’s completely okay. Be kind to your skin, keep things simple, and remember, this stage doesn’t last forever, even if the spots feel frustrating right now.

Hi M, it’s totally okay to have loads of questions in your teens, honestly, most people do. And even if your family doesn’t chat much about health or relationships, that doesn’t mean they wouldn’t support you if you needed them. You’re doing the right thing by reaching out.

About the HPV vaccine: try not to stress. Lots of people miss theirs in Year 8 for all sorts of reasons. Your school nurse team often come back to offer catch‑up doses, so the first step is to speak to your school office or receptionist to find out when the next session is. If that’s not an option, your GP practice can also arrange the vaccination for you, just ask for a “catch‑up HPV appointment” with the nurse.

About accepting your sexuality: this is a really common part of growing up. You don’t need to rush or label anything before you’re ready. Understanding who you are can take time, and it’s completely okay to explore your feelings quietly until things feel clearer. You might find it helpful to talk to one trusted person first, a friend, older sibling, or even a teacher or mentor you feel safe with. They can be your support when you eventually decide to share anything with family, but only when you feel comfortable.

About overeating and feeling uncomfortable after meals: this is something a lot of teens experience, especially because your body is growing fast and your hunger signals can feel all over the place. Often, overeating becomes more of a habit than actual hunger. A few gentle changes can really help, like adding more filling foods (protein, wholegrains, veggies) to your main meals so you stay satisfied for longer. When you feel like snacking, pause and ask yourself, “am I hungry or just bored?” Sometimes drinking a full glass of water and switching to an activity you enjoy - drawing, gaming, walking, reading gives your brain the break it needs. Another helpful habit is choosing a time in the evening where you stop eating and then doing something away from the kitchen afterwards, so you’re not tempted to snack just because you’re sitting around.

You’re asking all the right questions, and that shows real self‑awareness. Keep being kind to yourself, you’re doing great.

Yes! Pubic and underarm hair are one of the top signs of puberty, they also often show up about 6-12 months before a first period, so  now may be the time to get prepared and have a period kit with you when out and about.

Hi, it really sounds like you have so much going on right now, as many teens do! Schoolwork, friends, marching band, sports and even though you enjoy those things, it can still get overwhelming. Wanting a nap right when you get home isn’t a sign of weakness at all; teens’ bodies are working extra hard during puberty, and being tired after a busy day is completely normal.

Here are a few things that might help you feel more in control:

• Little energy boosters

Try having a lunch with some protein (like chicken, eggs, beans, yoghurt) to help keep your energy steady through the afternoon. If you snack, choose something simple like fruit, nuts, or crackers — small things that keep you going without making you feel sluggish.

• Swap the nap for a “reset”

Napping every day can make you feel even more tired later. Instead, try a quick reset when you get home, like a shower, changing into comfy clothes, or opening your window for some fresh air. It can trick your brain into thinking you’ve had a break.

• One tiny tidy task per day

Your room doesn’t have to be cleaned all at once. Pick one 10‑minute job each day, like:

emptying your bin
picking clothes off the floor
putting dirty laundry in a basket
clearing your desk
sorting one drawer

These small wins add up fast, and your room will start looking better without you spending hours doing it.

• Break your evenings into chunks

Try something like:

After school: quick reset + small tidy task
Homework: no more than 1–1.5 hours if possible
Sports/band: do your best to stick to your routine
After practice: avoid scrolling your phone, get your shower out of the way, pack your school stuff, then chill for an hour before bed

Keeping things in mini sections can help life feel a lot less chaotic.

If speaking to your mum about makeup feels difficult, you could try asking if you’re allowed to wear a tiny bit at home first, just for fun. Something simple like clear lip gloss or a little mascara (you probably don’t need eyebrow pencil yet!) can help her get used to seeing you with makeup in a low‑pressure way. Once she sees you’re using it sensibly and not going over the top, she may become more comfortable with the idea and over time, she might not even mind if you wear a bit when you’re out of the house too. The key is showing her you can be mature and responsible with it, rather than sneaking it and risking breaking her trust.

Hi, thank you for your questions I will answer each one separately. 

1. What Is Menopause?

Menopause is a stage adults go through much later in life when their periods stop, and it actually feels a lot like puberty in reverse. Just like teens can feel moody, emotional, confused, or not quite sure why their body is doing certain things, adults in menopause can feel lots of things too because their hormones are changing again. It’s totally normal, and it’s just another phase of life, nothing to worry about now, but something you may see happening to people in your family in the coming years.

3. How Do I Ask My Mum About Periods?
Even if it feels taboo at home, your mum has most likely been waiting for you to bring it up, she’s been through it herself, and she knows you’ll need info and support. Periods often seem like a bigger, scarier subject in our heads than they really are. You can start simply by saying, “Mum, I think my period might be close and I want to understand it better, can we talk?” And if you want extra help getting the conversation going, we even have a blog with tips on how to start the chat in a calm, non‑awkward way.

How Do I Tell Someone My First Period Is Here (or Might Be Coming Soon)?

4. Do Cold Drinks Increase Cramps?
Cold drinks don’t actually cause more cramps, that’s more of a myth. Cramps happen because the uterus muscles tighten, not because of temperature. If anything, staying hydrated (cold or warm water) can help your body feel better overall. Some people find warm drinks soothing, but cold drinks won’t make anything worse.

5. Is It Acne or an Allergic Reaction?

This is a great question and one I know many girls have questions about and for this reason I have written a blog about it, check out it out below.

Is Your Phone Becoming Your New Bestie? A Teen Guide to Using Tech Without Losing Balance

Yes, boys have pubic and underarm hair, they go through some pretty big changes during puberty too!  Check out my blog below for more info on this topic.

What Happens to Boys During Puberty? A Simple Guide for Girls

Why not read all the great blogs under our Teens banner, you will quickly see that periods and puberty are all part of life and once you understand why they happen, you will feel much more comfortable with this part of your life. And of course you can come and ask me anything.

You’re absolutely right! Puberty isn’t just about how your body looks, it’s a full transition from child to adult that affects your feelings and even how your brain processes things. Your mind can feel like a “new person” because your brain is developing in big ways during this time.

And here’s something interesting: brain development doesn’t stop in your teens, it continues into your mid to late twenties! So the changes you’re noticing now are just the start of a journey that helps you grow, learn, and understand the world in new ways.

Hi there, discharge can be unpredictable, and what you’re noticing is totally normal. Sometimes it’s thick and creamy, and other times it’s clear and watery and you might barely notice it. This happens because your body changes throughout your cycle, and discharge is just your body’s way of keeping things healthy. If you want to learn more, I’ve written a blog that explains why this happens and what’s normal.

As for asking your mum about panty liners and a bra, I know that conversation can feel awkward. A good tip is to bring it up casually maybe when you’re talking about clothes or shopping. You can say something like, “I think I’m ready for a bra, and I’d like to have panty liners for when discharge is heavier.”

Most mums remember how tricky puberty can be and will want you to feel comfortable and confident.

And because I know how hard bringing this subject up can be I've written a blog all about it - check it out here.

How To Ask To Ask Your Mum For Your First Bra

Being a teenager is exhausting, so if you find yourself needing naps, that’s totally normal. But let’s be real: school uniforms and jeans are not nap-friendly. They’re stiff, tight, and just not comfy enough to relax in.

That said, I wouldn’t recommend napping in your uniform it can wear out the fabric and make it look tired faster. Instead, try this:

Keep a comfy outfit ready in your room - like a hoodie and some soft tracksuit bottoms. When you get home, you can quickly change without having to think too hard about what to wear.
Try skipping the nap and doing something energising instead, like stretching, dancing to your favourite song, or stepping outside for a few minutes. Even chatting to family members about your day and how their day went can make you feel less sleepy. It might help you feel more awake and make bedtime easier later on.

Little changes like this can make a big difference in how you feel. You’ve got this and thank you for the sweet message, you're awesome too!

First of all, don’t be too hard on yourself. Puberty is a wild ride! Your body is changing, your hormones are all over the place, and that can seriously affect your energy, motivation, and mood.

Instead of focusing on what didn’t get done, look at what you did do you sorted your school drawer! That’s a win. It’s a step forward, and every little step counts.

Here’s a tip: set one small goal each day. Just one. Something simple like:

• Organise your underwear drawer
• Dance around your room for 20 minutes
• Get your school bag ready the night before

And when it’s bedtime, try putting your phone on charge across the room. That way, you’re less tempted to scroll and more likely to get some proper rest.

These little daily habits can help you feel more in control and proud of yourself, just one small step at a time.

Oh wow, so many things start happening during puberty! For some people, it feels like everything changes all at once, like a whirlwind. For others, it’s more of a slow and steady journey that can last anywhere from 5 to 7 years. And guess what? Both are totally normal.

Because puberty can be confusing (and sometimes a little awkward), I’ve written a blog that breaks it all down for you. It covers all the signs to look out for, how to manage the changes, and how to feel more confident as your body grows and develops.

Why not give it a read? It’s full of helpful tips and reassurance, and I am always here is you have any more questions.

What Is Puberty & How To Manage It?

Okay, so first things first: you might not believe this, but trust me dads understand way more about puberty and periods than you think. And even if they don’t know all the details, they definitely want to be there for you. You’re growing up, and that’s something your dad will be proud of, not awkward about.

That said, talking about discharge, periods, or panty liners can feel super weird. Saying the words out loud might make you want to disappear into the floor. Totally normal. So here are a few ways to make it easier:

Ask for a monthly allowance for toiletries. That way, you can buy what you need like panty liners, online or in-store, without needing to explain every item.

If you go shopping with your dad, ask if you can grab a basket and pick out a few things for yourself. You don’t even have to say what they’re for.

Write a note or send a quick text. Something like:
“Hey Dad, I’m starting to need a few teen supplies can we grab some next time we’re out?”  He’ll get it.

Use code words if it helps. Some people say “teen stuff” or “personal care” instead of “panty liners” or “period products.” Whatever makes you feel more comfortable.

Remember: you’re not doing anything wrong by asking. You’re taking care of your body, and that’s something to be proud of. Your dad will probably be glad you brought it up and he’ll want you to feel confident and comfortable.

Why not read my blogs on discharge and personal hygiene below.

What Is Vaginal Discharge? A Guide for Teens on What’s Normal and What’s Not

Puberty & Intimate Hygiene: A Simple Guide for Girls

It’s completely normal to feel awkward about discharge, especially when you’re still getting used to all the changes happening in your body. To answer your first question: discharge isn’t directly linked to your period, but it is a sign that your body is preparing for it. Most girls start noticing discharge about 6 to 12 months before their first period, so it’s actually a good sign that your period might not be too far off, even if it’s still irregular right now.

As for the leaking and laundry worries, please know that discharge stains are very common and usually wash out easily in a regular household wash. It’s very unlikely that anyone is examining your underwear closely, and if they did notice, they’d probably understand, it’s something all girls go through. But if you’d feel more comfortable using panty liners, you could write a little note to your mum or the person who looks after you, asking if they could pick some up next time they’re out. You don’t have to explain everything just a simple “Could you please get me some panty liners?” is enough. It’s a small step, but it can help you feel more confident and in control. 

That’s a really great question and one that lots of people wonder about!

Puberty can last around five years, but it’s different for everyone. It can start anytime from around age 8 to 14, and once it begins, your body goes through lots of changes physically, emotionally, and hormonally.

You’ll know puberty is coming to an end when most of those changes have settled. For example:

• Your periods become regular (though they can still vary a bit!)
• Your breasts, hips, and body shape have developed
• You’ve grown taller and then stopped growing
• You feel more emotionally balanced and settled

It’s not like flipping a switch it’s more like a slow process that your body works through in its own time. And remember, there’s no “right” way to go through puberty. Everyone’s journey is unique.

If you ever feel unsure or have questions along the way, it’s always okay to talk to someone you trust and of course come back here to ask any more questions.

Puberty can start at different ages for everyone and that’s totally normal.

Some people begin noticing changes as early as 8 years old, while others might not start until around 12 or even later. It’s not just about getting your period, puberty includes things like breast development, body hair, changes in mood, and growth spurts.

If you’re curious or feeling unsure, I’ve written a blog all about puberty and what to expect. It covers the signs, the timeline, and how to look after yourself during this time. Check it out below, I think you’ll find it really helpful!

What Is Puberty & How To Manage It?