While you're getting taller, your body is also changing shape. Your bones are growing and your muscles are strengthening to form a better frame for your adult body.

One of the most noticeable body shaping things for girls is the rounding of hips, buttocks and legs. Much of this rounding is a result of your body adding some necessary fat. This fat is important for normal development and will give you a more womanly, curvy shape than you had as a young girl. Your hips will also become wider because your pelvis (the bones in your hips) is broadening.

While your new body may seem to take a new shape somewhat gradually, people who don't see you very often may comment on "how much you've grown!" You may be tempted to roll your eyes, but remember they're seeing you in a new light as a young woman.

Look at a picture of yourself in third or fourth grade. How much have you changed? Ask your mother or aunt or sister to show you a picture of herself when she was the age you are now. Does she look older or younger than you?

Things to remember while you're growing:
Your puberty timetable may be very different from that of your friends. Even if you start changing right smack in the middle of the normal age range for puberty, others may have already started or still others will start changing after you.

It's normal to feel a little awkward and insecure about your body at this time. After all, you got pretty used to being in the body you had and it's changing fast. Don't worry, you'll get used to the new one too!

Your body's physical growth doesn't happen alone. You are also going through some very important emotional and mental changes as well.

Don't be surprised if you have some new feelings you haven't had before.