Puberty is the developmental stage that occurs between childhood and adulthood when full sexual maturity is reached.

Growth can happen in girls more rapidly, and earlier than boys, around the ages of 10 or 11 due to an increase in hormone production. They can normally reach their full adult height by 16 years of age. An increase in body weight is expected and menstruation can occur and if regular, ovulation begins. As well as physical changes, there is an increase in body hair, notably to the pubic region and armpits. Changes in behaviour happen around this time too.