Adolescence and early transformations: when everything begins to change

Between the ages of 12 and 20, we experience one of the most intense stages of our lives. We embark on a journey that transforms us physically, emotionally and mentally. It is the beginning of our active hormonal life, and with it come our first periods, changes in our bodies, doubts, exploration and, often, confusion. Understanding what is happening to us and having the right tools helps us get through this stage with confidence, well-being and greater self-esteem.

The hormonal awakening

It all starts with menarche, our first period, which usually occurs between the ages of 10 and 15. This milestone marks the beginning of adolescence and tells us that our ovaries have started to function, producing oestrogen and progesterone, the hormones responsible for our reproductive health.

During the first few years, it is normal for our cycles to be irregular, sometimes long, without ovulation or accompanied by heavy bleeding (hypermenorrhoea). It is also common to experience menstrual pain (dysmenorrhoea), acne, mood swings and, if we become sexually active, urinary tract infections or changes in the vaginal flora. All of this may seem overwhelming, but we are not alone, nor are we the only ones: it is a stage shared by millions of girls around the world.

Our first encounter with gynaecology

It is at this stage that many of us visit the gynaecologist for the first time. Sometimes it is because of menstrual pain, other times because of irregular periods, questions about contraception or intimate discomfort. This first encounter can make a big difference to how we experience our female health: it allows us to obtain reliable information, learn to listen to our bodies and start taking care of them consciously.

It is also a key moment to talk about our intimate health naturally, lose our fear of asking questions and begin to understand that our menstrual cycle is not an enemy, but a fundamental part of our biology.

Taking care of ourselves from the outset

Adolescence is fertile ground for building healthy habits that will stay with us for life. Playing sports, eating a balanced diet, avoiding a sedentary lifestyle and taking care of our skin are fundamental pillars. But sometimes our bodies need a little more.

At this stage, nutritional supplements can be great allies in relieving frequent discomfort, preventing infections, or maintaining the balance of our vaginal flora. The key is to choose safe, natural products that are specific to our needs.

From Orissens, here are some of the recommended allies for us at this stage:

• Orissens Woman Menstrual Forte: Designed to naturally relieve menstrual discomfort. It helps reduce bloating and alleviates premenstrual syndrome, which is especially useful when we do not yet have stable hormone levels.

• Orissens Woman Cistibalance Forte: Ideal for treating urinary tract infections, especially if you are sexually active or prone to cystitis. It is also a good complement to antibiotic treatment, shortening its duration and preventing future recurrences.

• Orissens Woman Íntima Balance: A great ally for strengthening the vaginal flora, especially useful when there are changes in discharge, intimate discomfort, or recurrent infections such as candidiasis or vaginosis.

Skin, emotions and self-esteem

Acne and other skin changes are very common during adolescence. These affect us not only physically, but also emotionally. That is why it is important to address this issue sensitively: see a dermatologist, adopt a proper cleansing routine and, above all, do not allow blemished skin to affect your self-esteem.

It is also a time of emotional ups and downs. Hormonal fluctuations, combined with social, academic and personal challenges, can lead to stress, anxiety or sadness. Talking to someone you trust, practising relaxation techniques and taking care of your rest are very useful strategies.

A message for us

Loving ourselves begins with knowing ourselves. Understanding what happens in our bodies and taking care of them from the outset not only helps us feel better, but also empowers us. It gives us the power to decide, to express ourselves, and to face every change with confidence.

Adolescence is not easy, but it can also be a wonderful stage if we live it with awareness, support, and the right tools. We deserve to grow up healthy, informed, and free from prejudice. We deserve to be listened to and to have our processes respected.

Because the path to a fulfilling life begins here, at this very moment of change. And at Orissens, we will accompany you, helping you in any way we can.