Puberty is the time when you grow from a boy into a young man. Everyone goes through it. It can be exciting, but some people find it tough. Here’s what to expect.

How does my body change?
During puberty, your testicles (testes or ‘balls’) start producing the male hormone testosterone. This hormone triggers changes in your body. Suddenly you grow taller and begin to develop muscles. You will also find physical changes happening to your voice, your body hair and your genitals, and possibly even your breasts.

There are plenty of signs that puberty has started. Every boy is different, but here are some of the most common changes to look out for.

• You grow taller, and you may become more muscular.
• Your Adam’s apple (larynx) gets bigger and your voice deepens or begins to ‘break’.
  Your testicles begin to produce sperm.
• Your body produces more hormones, so you might get erections when you least expect them.
• Ejaculations can happen while you are asleep. These are called ‘nocturnal emissions’, or ‘wet dreams’. Wet dreams are totally normal.
• You may get oily skin and hair, and spots (acne) may develop on your face and body.
  You may find you sweat more.
• Hair will start to grow under your arms and around your penis and testicles. You may also find more hair growing on your legs and arms. Hair will also appear on your chin and upper lip.
• You may have mood swings and feel emotional, but your feelings will settle down in time.
• You may notice a swelling or lump under your nipples. This is normal and it will go away after a few months.