Dear mileycyrus,

Although it's true that puberty happens at different ages for different people, it's a good idea for girls who have not started puberty by their late teens to check in with a health care provider.

Getting a period is only one of the changes that happen to girls during puberty. During puberty, girls will also notice their breasts getting bigger and hips getting wider, and they will start to grow hair under their arms, on their vulvas, and around their nipples. In general, girls get their first period about two years after their breasts start to grow.

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.