Hi ❤️

That's a really good observation, and you're absolutely right.

Lots of people use the word "vagina" to describe all of the female genitals, even though anatomically that's not correct. The vulva is the name for the external parts you can see, including the labia, clitoris, urethral opening, and vaginal opening. The vagina is the internal muscular tube that connects the vulva to the cervix.

Because the word "vagina" is so commonly used in everyday conversation, you'll often hear people, and sometimes even healthcare professionals, use it as a general term when speaking informally. However, when discussing anatomy, health, or puberty, it can be helpful to know and use the correct terms.

Personally, I think it's great that you're learning the proper names for different body parts. Knowing the correct anatomical terms can make it easier to understand your body, ask questions, and explain any health concerns clearly if you ever need to speak to a doctor or nurse.

So while many people do say "vagina" when they mean the whole area, you're correct that the more accurate term for the external genital area is the vulva.

Well done for taking an interest in how your body works and for asking such thoughtful questions! Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️

It sounds as though you're thinking a lot about your next smear test, but I'd gently encourage you not to put too much pressure on yourself about it right now.

Cervical screening isn't something most people have regularly. In the UK, it's usually offered every five years for those aged 25 to 49 if their results are normal, so your next appointment is still a long way off.

When the time does come, it's perfectly reasonable to tell the nurse that you found your previous test uncomfortable and ask her to explain what she's doing as she goes along. Healthcare professionals are very used to supporting nervous patients, and nobody will think badly of you for asking questions or needing reassurance.

For now, though, I'd try not to spend too much time worrying about what you might need to say or do at an appointment that is years away. A lot can change between now and then, and you may feel very differently when the time comes.

Try to focus on the present rather than imagining future health worries. You've had the screening that was recommended, and that's the important thing. Vicki ❤️

Hi ❤️ Sharing how you feel about your sexuality is a very personal decision, and there is no right age or deadline for coming out. Some people tell their family when they're young, while others wait until they're older and feel more confident about their feelings. Both choices are completely okay.

It sounds like you and your friend are doing a great job of supporting each other, and that's really important. However, just because your friend may decide to come out soon doesn't mean that you have to do the same. Everyone's journey is different.

If your friend wants to come out because she'd like more freedom to dress in a way that feels right for her, that's her choice. But you don't need a specific reason to come out, and you also don't need to come out simply because someone else is doing it.

The most important thing is that you feel comfortable, safe, and ready. If right now you're happy with only your best friend knowing, that's perfectly fine. There is no prize for coming out sooner, and there is no problem with waiting until the time feels right.

Puberty is a time when lots of young people are getting to know themselves better, and it's okay if you're still figuring things out. Don't let anyone pressure you into sharing something so personal before you're ready.

Trust yourself. When the time feels right, you'll know. And if that time isn't now, that's okay too. Vicki ❤️

Hi 💖

Thank you for being honest about this. You might be surprised to hear that lots of people struggle with changing their underwear regularly, especially when life gets busy or they're not in the habit of doing it every day.

Wearing clean underwear each day is important because things like sweat, a little urine, vaginal discharge, and general everyday dirt can build up in the fabric. Fresh underwear can help you feel more comfortable, confident, and support good intimate hygiene.

The good news is that you don't need to make huge changes all at once. Try making it as easy as possible for yourself. One simple trick is to pick out seven pairs of clean underwear at the start of the week and place them somewhere easy to reach. That way, there's always a fresh pair ready for the next day.

Another helpful habit is to put your used underwear straight into the laundry basket when you take it off. If it ends up on the floor or in a pile in your room, it can be tempting to wear it again, even when it really needs washing.

If you're worried about vaginal discharge between periods, you could also try wearing pantyliners if that's something you're comfortable with. They can help you feel fresher throughout the day, but they're not a replacement for changing your underwear.

Don't be too hard on yourself. Building new habits takes time, and even small changes can make a big difference. Why not start with a goal of putting on a clean pair of underwear every morning this week? Before long, it'll become part of your routine. 💕Vicki 

💖 Hi there,

A UTI is short for a Urinary Tract Infection, although lots of people simply call it a bladder infection. They're quite common, especially in girls and women, and the good news is that they're usually easy to treat if you get help quickly.

Some common signs of a UTI include:

• A burning or stinging feeling when you pee
• Needing to pee more often than usual
• Feeling like you need to pee urgently, even when little comes out
• Lower tummy discomfort
• Cloudy, dark, or strong-smelling urine
• Sometimes a mild fever or feeling unwell

Urinary tract infections can happen for several reasons. Sometimes bacteria can enter the urinary tract, which can lead to an infection. Not drinking enough water, holding your wee for too long, or not wiping from front to back after using the toilet can sometimes increase the risk.

If you think you might have a UTI, it's important to tell a parent, carer, or another trusted adult. A doctor can check whether you have a bladder infection and recommend the right treatment. In many cases, treatment helps symptoms improve quite quickly.

To help keep your urinary tract healthy, try to drink plenty of water, use the toilet when you need to go, and maintain good hygiene habits.

Most importantly, don't be embarrassed if you think you have a UTI. They're very common, and healthcare professionals deal with them all the time. 💕Vicki 

Hi 💖 

Please try not to panic. What you're describing can be completely normal during the teenage years.

When you've recently started having periods, it's very common for them to be irregular. Some girls can go several months between periods because their hormones are still settling down and their body is working out its own menstrual cycle. This can continue for the first few years after periods begin.

As for your tummy looking bigger, there can be lots of reasons for this. During puberty, your body naturally changes shape and stores a little more fat around the hips, bottom and tummy as you become more womanly. Bloating, constipation, growth spurts and normal weight changes can also make your stomach look or feel larger at times.

However, if there is any chance you have been sexually active, it's important to speak to a trusted adult and take a pregnancy test, as a missed period can be a sign of pregnancy.

If you've not been sexually active, then a three-month gap is usually not something to be frightened of. That said, it would be a good idea to let a parent, carer or GP know if:

• Your periods have stopped for more than three months.
• You have severe pain.
• Your tummy is becoming noticeably swollen.
• You're worried or feeling anxious about the changes.

From what you've told me, it sounds very likely that your body is still adjusting to puberty, but it's always okay to ask for help if you're concerned. ❤️Vicki 

Hi 💖 

That's a great question, and one that lots of people ask!

The vagina and vulva are different parts of the female reproductive system.

The vagina is the muscular passage inside your body. It's sometimes called the birth canal and is where period blood leaves the body and where a tampon is inserted.

The vulva is the name for the parts on the outside of your body that you can see. This includes:

• The labia (the folds of skin around the vaginal opening)
• The clitoris (a small, sensitive part at the top of the vulva)
• The openings to the vagina and urethra (where urine comes out)
• For some people, the hymen, a thin piece of tissue that may partly cover the entrance to the vagina

A simple way to remember it is:

👉 Vulva = outside
👉 Vagina = inside

Many people mistakenly use the word "vagina" when they're actually talking about the vulva, so you're definitely not alone if you've found it confusing!

Learning the correct names for body parts is a great way to understand your body and feel more confident about puberty and health. ❤️Vicki 

💖 Hi there,

Yes, this is completely normal!

Breast development is often one of the very first signs of puberty. Many girls notice their breasts starting to grow before they develop underarm or pubic hair. In fact, breast development can begin around two years before a first period, while pubic and underarm hair often appear later during puberty.

Everyone's body follows its own timetable, so it's very common to have growing breasts but only fine, light hair at this stage. It doesn't mean anything is wrong, and it doesn't mean puberty isn't progressing properly. Your body is simply developing in its own way.

Over the next few months or years, you'll likely notice other changes too, such as pubic hair becoming darker and coarser, underarm hair growing, a growth spurt, and eventually your first period. These changes don't happen in the same order for everyone.

So try not to worry. From what you've described, your body sounds as though it's doing exactly what many girls' bodies do during puberty. ❤️Vicki 

Hi there,💖 

First of all, congratulations on managing your periods at 11. It can feel like a big change, and it's completely normal to have questions about your body.

There's no specific age when you should start shaving your pubic hair. In fact, you don't have to remove it at all unless you want to. Pubic hair is a normal part of growing up, and everyone chooses to manage it differently. Some people leave it as it is, some trim it a little, and some remove it completely.

Just because you've started your period doesn't mean you need to start shaving. The most important thing is keeping the area clean and comfortable. When you're on your period, make sure you change your period pads regularly and wash the area daily with warm water. If a little blood gets caught in the hair, a gentle wash will clean it away.

If you ever decide in the future that you'd like to remove some hair, it's best to talk to a parent or trusted adult first so they can help you do it safely. But honestly, at 11, there's absolutely no need to feel pressured to shave anything.

Remember, everybody develops at their own pace, and having pubic hair is completely normal and healthy. ❤️ Vicki 

Hi there ❤️

Want to know the real secret to smelling amazing all day? It's usually the simple things rather than loads of perfume!

The people who always seem to smell fresh tend to:

• Shower or bathe regularly
• Wash their hair when it needs it
• Use an antiperspirant deodorant
• Wear clean clothes each day
• Change socks and underwear daily
• Keep up with oral hygiene by brushing their teeth and tongue
• Use a light body spray, perfume, or scented body lotion

One of the nicest scents is often just the smell of clean hair and fresh clothes. A freshly washed hoodie or jumper can make as much of a difference as a fancy fragrance!

If you like wearing perfume or body spray, try applying a small amount to your wrists, neck, or clothing. Too much can be overpowering, while a light scent often smells much more appealing.

You can also carry a travel-sized deodorant, body spray, hairbrush, or chewing gum if you want a quick freshen-up during the day.

And here's something important: people are far more likely to notice someone who looks clean, confident, and comfortable in themselves than someone wearing lots of strong fragrance. Fresh, clean, and subtle is usually the winning combination. ❤️Vicki 

Hi there ❤️

Great question! One thing that's really important to know is that puberty doesn't happen in exactly the same order for everyone. We all develop at our own pace, so try not to compare yourself to friends or classmates.

Some common signs of puberty include and can for some arrive in this order:

• Breast buds starting to develop
• A growth spurt where you get taller
  Mood swings and stronger emotions
• Spots or acne
• Pubic hair beginning to grow
• Underarm hair appearing
• Increased sweating and body odour
  Vaginal discharge

One of the most common signs that your first period may be coming soon is vaginal discharge. This is usually a clear or white fluid you might notice in your underwear. For many girls, discharge starts around 6 to 12 months before their first period, although it can be shorter or longer than that.

You might also notice:

• Mild tummy cramps
• Feeling more emotional than usual
• Bloating
• Tender or sore breasts
• Lower back aches

However, it's important to remember that some girls get their first period without noticing many signs at all. Bodies are amazing and unique, and everyone's puberty journey is a little different.

If you're wondering when your period might start, it can be helpful to learn about the signs and keep a few period pads in your school bag or at home, just in case.

Why not spend a few minutes reading the puberty and periods blogs on the Lil-Lets hub too? They're packed with helpful advice and answers to questions that lots of girls have. I've popped one below to start you off❤️

What Is Puberty & How To Manage It?

Vicki 

Hi there ❤️

Firstly, well done for attending your first smear test. It's completely normal to feel nervous beforehand, and many people find it harder to relax than they expected, especially when they don't know exactly what the procedure will feel like.

Please don't worry that things didn't go quite to plan. When we're anxious, it's very common to tense the muscles around the vagina and pelvic area, which can make the examination feel uncomfortable. You're certainly not alone in experiencing this.

It sounds as though what caught you off guard most was being touched in such a private area. Even though healthcare professionals perform smear tests every day, having someone examine and gently open the vagina with a gloved hand can feel strange and unexpected when you've never experienced it before. Many people are surprised by this part of the procedure.

The important thing to remember is that you've taken a positive step by attending. Smear tests are an important way of checking for changes in the cervix and helping to protect your future health.

When it's time for your next smear test, let the nurse or doctor know that you felt anxious during your first appointment. They can talk you through each step before they do it, tell you when they're about to touch you or insert the speculum, and give you extra time to relax. You can also ask them to use a smaller speculum if appropriate and pause at any time if you need a break.

Try not to be embarrassed by what happened. So many people feel nervous during their first smear test, and healthcare professionals are used to helping patients who find the experience difficult.

Be kind to yourself today. You did something important for your health, and next time you'll have a much better idea of what to expect. ❤️

Hi there 💖 What you're describing is actually really normal, especially at 12.

Discharge is a fluid made by your vagina that helps keep it clean and healthy. Many girls start noticing more discharge months or even years before their first period starts. It's one of the common signs that your body is going through puberty.

Some girls like to wear pantyliners to help capture discharge and leave them feeling clean and fresh. 

Normal discharge is usually:

• Clear, white, or creamy in colour
• Mild-smelling or has very little smell
• Seen in your underwear most days or on and off throughout the month
• The amount can vary too. Some girls only get a little, while others feel like they're getting lots. Both can be completely normal.

You should speak to a parent, guardian, school nurse, or GP if the discharge:

It can be annoying, but it's a normal part of growing up and may mean your first period is getting closer, although nobody can say exactly when it will arrive.

So don't worry, you're definitely not alone in this! ❤️ Vicki x 💕

Hii there 💖

If it really is a skin tag, then try not to worry. Skin tags are quite common and are usually harmless. They can appear on different parts of the body, including around the vulva (the outside area of your genitals).

However, it can sometimes be difficult to tell the difference between a skin tag and other types of bumps, especially if you've only just noticed it. Things such as cysts, moles, or genital warts can sometimes look similar.

My advice would be:

• Avoid picking, squeezing, or trying to remove it yourself.
• Keep an eye on it for any changes.
• Let a parent, guardian, GP, or sexual health nurse know if you're unsure what it is, if it starts growing, becomes painful, itchy, bleeds, or changes colour.

In most cases, a small skin tag on the outside of the vulva is nothing to be concerned about. If you're confident it's a skin tag and it isn't causing any problems, it's very likely to be perfectly OK.

Remember, bodies come in all shapes and sizes, and it's completely normal to notice little lumps, bumps, and differences as you get older. ❤️ Vicki x 💕

Hi there 💖

That is such a good question, and please don't worry, it's absolutely OK to ask.

During a smear test (also called cervical screening), the nurse or doctor is checking the health of your cervix, which is located at the top of the vagina. The purpose of the test is to collect a small sample of cells from the cervix, not to examine your vulva or private area for appearance.

To do this, the healthcare professional will ask you to lie down and will gently insert a small instrument called a speculum into the vagina. This holds the vaginal walls open for a short time so they can see the cervix and take the sample. The actual test usually takes less than a minute.

Many people worry that the procedure will be embarrassing, but nurses who carry out cervical screening do it every day and are very good at helping patients feel comfortable. If you're nervous, you can always tell them beforehand. They will happily talk you through each step and answer any questions you have.

As for my own experience, I take deep slow, deep breaths and relax as this helps the muscles relax too and can help make the procedure easier.

The most important thing to remember is that cervical screening is a routine health check designed to keep you healthy, and you are always in control. If you need a break or want something explained, you can speak up at any time.  Vicki x 💕

Hi there 💧😊

Absolutely!

My first tip is to keep a bottle of water with you whenever you can. You don't need to drink it all at once. Taking regular sips throughout the day is an easy way to stay hydrated, especially when you're at school, playing sports, or out and about.

Another great way to get more fluids is through the foods you eat. Lots of fruits and vegetables contain water, including:

Watermelon 🍉
Oranges 🍊
Grapes 🍇
Cucumber 🥒

These can make tasty snacks and help you stay hydrated at the same time.

You could even try making a smoothie. One of my favourites is a watermelon, cucumber, and banana smoothie. It's refreshing, delicious, and contains plenty of water-rich ingredients.

A good tip is to drink a little more if the weather is hot or if you've been exercising and sweating.

Remember, if you're feeling thirsty, your body is already telling you it needs more fluids, so take a few sips of water when you can.

Vicki 💕

Hi there 💖

The pain you're feeling from your vagina up to your tummy is most likely caused by your body growing and changing during puberty. As your reproductive organs (the parts of your body that help with having babies when you're older) grow and develop, you may sometimes notice mild aches or twinges.

This can feel a little uncomfortable, but it's usually completely normal. Gentle stretching, keeping active, and getting plenty of rest can help.

If the pain is very strong, keeps getting worse, or you're worried about it, talk to a parent, trusted adult, or teacher if you are in school.

Your body goes through lots of changes during puberty, and mild growing pains are often just part of that process. Check out my blog below for more information on your Growing Body. Vicki 💖 

Growth Spurts & Growing Pains

Hi there ❤️

First of all, please be kind to yourself. What you're describing sounds a lot like what many girls experience during puberty.

During your teens, your body naturally changes shape. Your face can become a little fuller, your hips may widen, and your tummy may look rounder than it did when you were younger. These changes can feel strange because they often happen quite quickly, and sometimes your mind takes longer to adjust to your new body.

You mentioned that a BMI calculator said you were in the healthy weight range, and your scales showed low body fat and high muscle. That's actually really reassuring. Muscle weighs more than fat, so the number on the scales doesn't always tell the whole story. It sounds as though your body is growing and developing rather than there being a problem with your weight.

It's also very common to notice that your body responds differently to food as you get older. When you're younger, you grow at different rates, and as puberty starts, your body begins storing energy and developing into its adult shape.

Rather than focusing on losing weight, try focusing on healthy habits. Aim for three balanced meals a day, drink plenty of water, and find ways to stay active during the summer holidays, even just two 20 minute activities can make a huge difference. This doesn't have to mean exercising for hours. Walking, dancing in your bedroom, swimming, cycling, or meeting friends at the park all count!

If you'd like to talk to your mum, you could simply say:

"Mum, I've been feeling a bit worried about my body lately and I was wondering if we could talk about it. I'm finding it hard to know what's normal during puberty."

Most mums would much rather you shared your worries than kept them to yourself.

Remember, from everything you've said, it doesn't sound like you're "unhealthy" or that you need to go on a diet. It sounds like you're a 13-year-old whose body is growing exactly as it should. Why not check out the two blogs below for more advice on weight and a growing body.

Weight gain in Teens

Growth Spurts & Growing Pains

Vicki ❤️

Hi, this is a slang term for a male erection of the penis.

Hi there 💖

Please try not to panic. When I talk about smelly discharge, I'm usually talking about a strong or unusual smell, not the mild scent that most discharge naturally has.

In fact, normal vaginal discharge often has a slight odour because it mixes with sweat, urine, and your body's natural bacteria. That doesn't mean anything is wrong.

That being said....you should be a little more concerned if you notice any of the following:

• A very strong or unpleasant smell that is different from usual.
• Discharge that looks clumpy, like cottage cheese.
• Itching, soreness, burning, or irritation around your vulva.
• Discharge that is an unusual colour, such as green or grey.

If none of those things apply to you, and your discharge has always had a slight smell, it's likely just your normal discharge.

The warm weather can also make you notice odours more because we all sweat more. Wearing clean cotton underwear, changing out of sweaty clothes after sports, and washing the outside of your vulva with plain water can help you stay comfortable. Avoid using scented washes or sprays, as these can sometimes cause irritation.

Most importantly, a little bit of odour is normal and doesn't automatically mean there's a problem. From what you've described, there's no reason to assume anything is wrong. Vicki 💖