What Does 'Second Puberty' Mean for Women?
When we think of puberty, we often flash back to our awkward teen years. But did you know that women experience a second hormonal shift known as 'second puberty'? This shift is as natural and as important to the female body as the first one. In this blog post, we will attempt to have a better understanding of second puberty in women.
What is Second Puberty?
Second puberty is a term used to describe the series of biological and physical changes that happen in a woman's body, mostly between the ages of late 20s and early 40s. This is a pivotal phase when the body undergoes changes due to fluctuating hormones, which, in turn, can affect your mental, physical, and emotional health.
Physical Changes
During second puberty, women may notice changes in their body shape. Breasts may get fuller; hips may widen a bit; there might be noticeable weight gain or loss. This is also the time when the first signs of ageing, like fine lines or wrinkles, may surface.
Mental and Emotional Changes
Second puberty is not just about physical transformation. Many women experience shifts in their mood, changes in their thoughts and feelings, increased anxiety or stress levels, and sometimes even depression.
The Hormonal Shift
The hormonal shift experienced during second puberty directly impacts a woman's fertility. Levels of various hormones fluctuate as the body prepares for potential changes in the future, such as motherhood or menopause.
Changes to Expect in Your 20s
Bone Density: Your bone density is in its prime during your 20s as your body is still building bone mass. This is the perfect time to ensure you keep up a healthy exercise routine and consume plenty of calcium-rich foods.
Menstrual Changes: Periods usually settle into a regular cycle during this decade, and you may notice changes in your menstrual symptoms— for some, they may be more intense and for some, less than your teenage years. Anything unusual should be checked by a health professional.
Fertility: You're at your peak fertility in your 20s, so if children are in your plans for the future, this is an important phase for planning.
Changes to Expect in Your 30s
Bone Density: The concentration of your bone mass begins to slowly decrease in your 30s. Weight-bearing exercises, like running or strength training, and maintaining a balanced diet can support your bone health.
Menstrual Changes: For some women, periods can become less predictable in their 30s, especially as they approach their 40s. This is typically a normal part of ageing. However, significantly irregular periods should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Fertility: Fertility naturally starts to decrease around the age of 35, and this process accelerates as you move closer to your 40s. This decade is a critical phase for those considering pregnancy.
Changes to Expect in Your 40s
Bone Density: Bone loss starts to increase more rapidly in your 40s, particularly if you're going through early menopause. Vitamin D and calcium become even more crucial in your diet.
Menstrual Changes: Periods may become irregular, and changes in flow are also common as you move closer to menopause.
Fertility: Fertility continues to decrease in your 40s, with many women experiencing menopause, which ends the menstrual cycle and the fertile phase. This isn't an immediate switch-off and each woman's experience will be unique.
Handling Second Puberty
Just like first puberty, second puberty is a natural phase of a woman's life. Embracing these changes and navigating through them with proper understanding and care can make this transition easier. Regular fitness routines, a balanced diet, and mental health care can improve the experience of second puberty.
The phase of second puberty is a transition not a permanent stay, a phase that prepares your body for the future. Being aware of the above information can help make navigation easier, and remember, these changes are not to be feared but to be understood and embraced. Remember, every woman’s journey is unique, so it is essential not to compare your experience to anyone else’s during this period.
In your experience, how much of a role did understanding these changes play in your general well-being during your 'second puberty'? I look forward to hearing your experiences and thoughts.