Which of the following changes occurs during puberty for girls?

• A. Breast development
• B. Hair grows in pubic area & armpits
• C. Periods begin
• D. Growth of facial hair

Answer: (C)

During puberty in girls, the first period, or menarche, is a key milestone that signals reproductive maturity. This happens as estrogen and progesterone cause the uterus to prepare for possible pregnancy, leading to the shedding of the uterine lining each month for the first time. While breast development and growth of pubic and underarm hair are also puberty changes driven by hormones, they can occur before and do not by themselves mark the onset of puberty. Growth of facial hair is not a typical change for most girls and is more related to male-pattern development. So, the appearance of periods best represents the puberty change being described.