The teenage years are one of the most intense hormonal stages in life. It’s like the body turns on a completely new system, and everything from mood to physical changes is affected. Puberty doesn’t start in the ovaries — it begins in the brain. The hypothalamus slowly “wakes up” and starts sending small pulses of a signaling hormone called GnRH. This tiny hormone sets off the entire cascade of puberty.
When GnRH activates, two other hormones — FSH and LH — begin to rise. These hormones tell the ovaries that it’s time to start producing estrogen, progesterone, and a small amount of testosterone.
Estrogen increases first and strongest, which is why physical changes often appear long before the first period. Breasts start to develop, hips become more rounded, growth spurts happen quickly, and the tissues of the vulva mature. At the same time, emotions can feel more intense. Mood swings don’t mean something is wrong — they mean the brain and body are developing.
When periods start, it marks the beginning of a two–three year “adjustment phase.” Progesterone — often called the body’s calming hormone — only rises regularly once ovulation becomes established. This is why early cycles can be irregular, unpredictable, or feel emotionally overwhelming. Testosterone also increases a little, which can lead to more energy, more curiosity about sexuality, and sometimes acne.
One of the most important parts of puberty hormones is that they work in pulses, not steady flows. This means some days feel stable and easy, while others feel like a rollercoaster. This is completely normal. Your body is building an adult nervous system, and it takes time.
Totally normal things during puberty:
Irregular or missing periods
Mood swings or emotional waves
Breast tenderness
Increased sweating or acne
Feeling overwhelmed by emotions
Sudden tiredness or bursts of energ
Alma’s Tips
It’s okay to feel a lot — your body is doing something incredibly important. Try to rest a bit more on days that feel intense, and remind yourself that nothing is “wrong” with you. Your system is learning, growing, and finding its rhythm. And if anything worries you, just ask me. I’m here to explain, support, and guide you through every step.