122 PLAIN FACTS FOE OLD AND YOUNG 



''In woman, the pelvis and abdomen enlarge, but 

 the whole frame remains more slender, the muscles 

 and joints less prominent, the limbs more rounded and 

 tapering [than in the male]. Locally, both external 

 and internal organs undergo a considerable and rapid 

 enlargement. The mammae enlarge, the ovarian vesi- 

 cles become dilated, and there is established a period- 

 ical discharge of one or more ova, accompanied, in 

 most cases, by a sanguineous fluid from the cavity of 

 the uterus." 



These changes, so varied and extraordinary, often 

 occur within a very short space of time; and as they 

 are liable to serious derangement, especially in the 

 female, great care should be taken to secure for the 

 individual the most favorable conditions until they are 

 successfully effected. It is, however, a fact deserving 

 of mention, that many of the ills which are developed 

 at this particular period are quite as much the result 

 of previous indiscretions and mismanagements as of 

 any immediate cause. A few suggestions with regard 

 to the proper treatment of individuals at this age may 

 be in place: 



1. Do not allow the boy or girl to be overworked, 

 either mentally or physically. Great and important 

 changes are occurring within the body, and nature 

 should not be overtaxed. 



2. Keep the mind occupied. While excessive labor 

 should be avoided, idleness should be as carefully 

 shunned. Some light, useful employment or harmless 

 amusement— better some kind of work— should keep 

 the mind fully occuj)ied with wholesome subjects. 



3. Abundant exercise out-of-doors is essential for 

 both sexes. Sunshine and fresh air are as necessary to 



