What happens to the female brain at onset of puberty?

The female brain is complex, especially when it comes to the many phases of menstruation over the years. Louann Brizendine, MD describes initial signs of puberty and how PMS develops gradually thanks to hormone changes.

Up Next

  • When does PMS first appear?

  • Do all women get PMS?

  • How do hormone fluctuations affect women?

  • Understanding and treating PMS

  • Can PMS affect middle-aged women differently?

  • How can PMS affect women?

  • Why do we need to know about women's hormones?

  • Does a teenager's brain physically change?

  • What happens to hormones when a woman delivers a baby?

  • What are we learning about the teenage brain?

Up Next

  • When does PMS first appear?

  • Do all women get PMS?

  • How do hormone fluctuations affect women?

  • Understanding and treating PMS

  • Can PMS affect middle-aged women differently?

  • How can PMS affect women?

  • Why do we need to know about women's hormones?

  • Does a teenager's brain physically change?

  • What happens to hormones when a woman delivers a baby?

  • What are we learning about the teenage brain?

AskMDAskMD

Curious about Women's health?

Get instant answers from our AI health assistant

Ask Now

Recommended for you

Research shows that girls may be at higher risk of concussions than boys, but why?

Why head injuries affect girls differently than boys
Article

If you’ve been sexually assaulted, it’s not your fault and you’re not alone.

What everyone should know about sexual violence
Article

Seasonal affective disorder can occur in the spring and summer as well as the fall and winter.

Why does springtime make some people depressed?
Article

Learn what increases the odds that you or a loved one will experience major depressive disorder.

8 risk factors for major depressive disorder
Article

Learn how to feel energized after lunch—without coffee.

6 ways to beat the afternoon slump
Slideshow
AskMDHow can I be more consistent?
AskMD by Sharecare LogoAskMD by Sharecare Logo
Privacy policyConsumer health data privacyTerms of use
Cookie policyYour privacy choices

© 2026 Sharecare, Inc.

ask-mdask-md
AskMD by Sharecare LogoAskMD by Sharecare Logo
Privacy policyConsumer health data privacyTerms of use
Cookie policyYour privacy choices

© 2026 Sharecare, Inc.