I am 12 years old. I have a big problem. See, I don't have my period yet. And I am getting worried. An average girl is supposed to get it at 12. I have been getting discharge and hair on my legs and under my arms. And no hair down there. if you know what I mean. This is very embarrassing for me but I need to know this. Thank you .

Thanks for your note to FEMINIST.COM. I don't think you should be worried at all. Girls develop at all different ages--and "12" is just the average age for girls to get their period. Some girls don't get their period until 15 or 16. I have no doubt that this will come in time. If you want to be more confident with your stage of development you could talk to your doctor. You also might want to ask your mother, your aunt--a female relative about when they developed. Although the average age for girls to "develop" has decreased over the years, perhaps this has been consistent with your family. I hope this helps--and please don't worry too much.

—Amy