Things she's dying to ask about puberty (but probably won't)

Your daughter's got a ton on her mind right now—school, boys, growing up. Yet, she seems to tell you less and less every day. It's not that she doesn't have questions; it's just that now, the things she wants to talk about aren't so easy to open up about. That's why you need to give her answers in a way that is comfortable for both of you. Here are some of the top questions girls tend to ask our experts on beinggirl.com:

What kind of changes can I expect during puberty?
The main (and perfectly normal) changes you'll go through during puberty include: growing taller and broader (particularly in the hips), breast development, vaginal discharge, and the start of menstruation.

Read article: What's Happening to My Body?

What should you do when you have cramps?
Try taking a warm bath or placing a heating pad on your abdomen. Also, you might try an over-the-counter painkiller the night before you think your period will start.

Why is my cycle irregular? Will it always be this way?
Having an irregular cycle, as well as a changing flow, is normal during the first year or two after you start menstruating. Keeping a menstrual calendar may help your daughter see when her cycle has become regular.

What is the white stuff in my underwear?
A year or so before you start to menstruate, you'll notice a daily vaginal discharge. During your cycle, the discharge may range from wet and liquidy to thick and rope-like. If you don't like the feel or want to protect your undies, try an Always ^® Pantiliner.

Read Ask the Experts: What is the white stuff in my underwear?

What if I start my period at school?
Most periods begin with a little staining in your panties, so watch for that signal. You can also begin to use Always ^® Pantiliners, which will protect you enough until you get a pad from the bathroom or school nurse. It's a good idea to keep a pad or two available in your locker or purse.

When does my chest stop growing?
Many girls experience breast development into their late teens. How your body will grow is based on heredity. Talk to your mom and aunts to get an idea of how they developed.

How do I stop body odor?
The best way is to shower daily. If you are active in sports, dance, or gym class, you may need to shower more than once. Now that you have reached puberty, you should also wear a deodorant or antiperspirant. Deodorants don't stop sweat; they just partially cover the smell. Antiperspirants help stop sweat before it starts and can keep you smelling great.

Read Ask the Experts: How to Get Rid of Body Odor

Be Prepared
You may not be with your daughter when her period starts, so keep her prepared with:

• An Always Thin Pantiliner—great for everyday freshness.
• An emergency school kit—in an opaque bag, include an Always pad and a clean pair of underwear for her locker or backpack.
• An Always^® Infinity —pad for her purse.