Dear beccahboo,

Breast growth is one sign that a girl is going through puberty. Puberty doesn't happen all at once — it happens in stages or "spurts". Most girls start puberty between ages 8 and 14, and some may not finish puberty until as late as age 20. Also, some girls may have one breast that grows faster than the other.

Some girls who are going through puberty find that their breasts are sore or tender, but not all girls experience this. The discomfort goes away as growth slows down. Many girls also have swelling and tenderness in their breasts just before their period comes each month.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.