Science

• Adolescence is the period when the body undergoes changes leading to reproductive maturity
• Adolescence begins around the age of 11 and continues until 18 or 19 years of age
• Adolescents are also known as 'teenagers'
• Puberty is the period when the human body undergoes changes in body and reproductive organs leading to sexual maturity
• The most significant change during puberty is that boys and girls become capable of reproduction
• In girls, puberty may start a year or two earlier than in boys
• Changes at Puberty:
• Changes differ in males and females and vary in extent for each individual
• Changes include an increase in height, body shape, voice change, development of sex organs, and mental, intellectual, and emotional maturity
• Secondary sexual characteristics:
• Boys:

  • Growth of facial hair
  • Growth of body hair including underarm, abdomen, chest, and pubic hair
  • Chest and shoulders widen, body becomes muscular
  • Skin becomes rough and porous, sweat and sebaceous glands increase secretion
  • Larynx (Adam's apple) protrudes out, voice becomes deep and husky
• Girls:

  • Enlargement of breasts
  • Growth of body hair in underarm and pubic areas
  • Widening of hips
  • Changed fat distribution with more fat at hips, buttocks, and thighs
  • Development of secondary reproductive organs
• Mental and Physical Changes at Puberty:
• Reproductive health means proper growth and well-being of the reproductive organs
• The pituitary gland is situated in the brain and is called a master endocrine gland
• The pituitary gland secretes growth hormone, which controls the overall growth of a person
• Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone responsible for the development of male reproductive organs, production of sperms, and secondary sexual characteristics
• Oestrogen is the primary female sex hormone responsible for the development of female reproductive organs, production of ova, secondary sexual characteristics, and menstrual cycle
• The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland situated in the throat and secretes a hormone called thyroxin
• The pancreas secretes insulin, which regulates the blood sugar level in the body
• The adrenal glands are situated above the kidneys and secrete adrenaline, which functions in emergency situations
• The menstrual cycle is the reproductive cycle of females that includes cyclic changes in the ovaries and uterus
• Sex determination is based on the presence of X and Y chromosomes, where females have two X chromosomes and males have one X and one Y chromosome
• Personal hygiene is important during teenage years to prevent body odor and acne
• A balanced diet including proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and vitamins is essential for teenagers' growth
• Physical exercise ensures a healthy body and mind
• Teenagers should avoid drugs as they are addictive and harmful in the long term