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The Period Literacy Handbook: Everything you need to know about your menstrual cycles, period.
The average person with periods goes through more than four hundred menstrual cycles in their lifetime–over four hundred cycles of changing hormones that impact mood, energy levels, productivity, appetite, metabolism, sleep, connection, and more. Yet we don’t learn enough about periods.
The Period Literacy Handbook is a comprehensive guide to menstrual health that weaves together menstrual biology, naturopathic and conventional medicine, the world's socio-political landscape, advocacy tools, and practical strategies for more peaceful periods. From nutrition and lifestyle guidance to self-advocacy tips and resources, this book has something for anyone looking to move the needle forward on their menstrual health.
It contains answers to questions
What actually happens in a menstrual cycle?Is my period “normal”?Do I need to get my hormones tested?Did I cause my period problems?Should I quit high-intensity exercise for my hormone health?Which foods, if any, will make my periods better?Why are hormone-based concerns not talked about more?How do I talk to my doctor about my period problems?Should I sync my life with my menstrual cycle?In a style that can be described as textbook meets conversation-with-a-good-friend, this book contains everything you need to know about your menstrual cycles and how you can live in hormonal harmony.
The Period Literacy Handbook is a comprehensive guide to menstrual health that weaves together menstrual biology, naturopathic and conventional medicine, the world's socio-political landscape, advocacy tools, and practical strategies for more peaceful periods. From nutrition and lifestyle guidance to self-advocacy tips and resources, this book has something for anyone looking to move the needle forward on their menstrual health.
It contains answers to questions
What actually happens in a menstrual cycle?Is my period “normal”?Do I need to get my hormones tested?Did I cause my period problems?Should I quit high-intensity exercise for my hormone health?Which foods, if any, will make my periods better?Why are hormone-based concerns not talked about more?How do I talk to my doctor about my period problems?Should I sync my life with my menstrual cycle?In a style that can be described as textbook meets conversation-with-a-good-friend, this book contains everything you need to know about your menstrual cycles and how you can live in hormonal harmony.
404 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 8, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
May 21, 2024
The Period Literacy Handbook is a comprehensive guide to menstruation, from your first period to your last. The book is divided into six parts, each with several chapters. The first part explains what happens in your body when you menstruate, complete with anatomical drawings. The second section discusses how to track your period and what to track. The third section covers contraception, fertility and infertility, and a number of facts that young women are often unaware of but need to know. The fourth section talks about menstrual concerns such as painful periods, heavy periods, PMS, polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis and functional amenorrhea. If you have a concern, there's a good chance it's mentioned in the book along with suggestions for how to address it. The sixth section is called “Paving the Way to Peaceful Periods” and it goes into even greater detail. This book covers everything you might want to know but were afraid to ask.
Now, I've left the fifth section of the book to the last because it is very different from the other sections. Imagine, for a moment, that you wanted to learn about the global economy so you search for a book written by a renowned economist. You start reading and it's excellent, but suddenly, in the middle of discussing stocks and bonds, there are two chapters devoted to menstruation. “What the heck!” you say. “I wanted to read about economics not blood clots and tampons.” That's what happens in this book. In the middle of reading about your menstrual cycle, there's a section on “sexism, racism, classism, colonialism, ableism, sizeism and other forms of oppression” such as capitalism and the patriarchy. The author admits that she is “not an expert in these areas; (her) understanding is limited,” but she has included a “smattering of sociopolitical commentary and personal opinion” anyway. That's unfortunate because it detracts from an otherwise well written book, filled valuable information.
Now, I've left the fifth section of the book to the last because it is very different from the other sections. Imagine, for a moment, that you wanted to learn about the global economy so you search for a book written by a renowned economist. You start reading and it's excellent, but suddenly, in the middle of discussing stocks and bonds, there are two chapters devoted to menstruation. “What the heck!” you say. “I wanted to read about economics not blood clots and tampons.” That's what happens in this book. In the middle of reading about your menstrual cycle, there's a section on “sexism, racism, classism, colonialism, ableism, sizeism and other forms of oppression” such as capitalism and the patriarchy. The author admits that she is “not an expert in these areas; (her) understanding is limited,” but she has included a “smattering of sociopolitical commentary and personal opinion” anyway. That's unfortunate because it detracts from an otherwise well written book, filled valuable information.
July 17, 2024
"The Period Literacy Handbook" was a fantastic read and a book I wish I had as a teenager full of questions about my changing body! It is well-written and easy for non-medical professionals to follow. Dr. Hussain's personal perspectives made the issues feel more relatable. I appreciated that she addressed issues like gaslighting, as visiting doctors for period-related concerns can be challenging. This information supports better discussions with doctors. Another highlight for me was the chapter on period products. I had never thought about researching this topic, and I had no idea there was so much information behind them. If only that had been taught in school! The author could have ended the book after the medical topics, but she went above and beyond by including chapters on wellbeing, highlighting how periods are influenced by various factors. This additional content truly emphasizes the holistic impact of menstrual cycles on overall health. Overall, this book offers an honest, comprehensive overview of menstrual cycles and the intricacies of the female body. It's an informative and empowering read that provides valuable insights and support for readers navigating their own experiences.
May 9, 2024
A must-read book for anyone with periods.
The Period Literacy Handbook is a must-read for anyone with periods. It covers so much great info on the menstrual cycle and hormones.
I really related to the parts about our public healthcare system in Ontario and how money and greed drive which policies are put in place and which people we care about. Anne adds personal touches when she shares her personal experiences as a patient and as a naturopathic doctor.
There's lots of practical advice on what to do, what not to do, and how to talk to your doctor. It’s quite an informative read and it made me think a lot about health in general.
If you are on the fence, go for it - It's worth the read!
The Period Literacy Handbook is a must-read for anyone with periods. It covers so much great info on the menstrual cycle and hormones.
I really related to the parts about our public healthcare system in Ontario and how money and greed drive which policies are put in place and which people we care about. Anne adds personal touches when she shares her personal experiences as a patient and as a naturopathic doctor.
There's lots of practical advice on what to do, what not to do, and how to talk to your doctor. It’s quite an informative read and it made me think a lot about health in general.
If you are on the fence, go for it - It's worth the read!
July 9, 2025
As someone who religiously tracks my cycles and has spent years learning about menstrual health, I can confidently say that "The Period Literacy Handbook" by Dr. Anne Hussain is a valuable book to add to your shelves. This book fills a crucial gap in education that so many of us experienced growing up – the lack of comprehensive, compassionate information about periods and menstrual cycles. Written with warmth and understanding, it feels like having a conversation with a trusted friend rather than reading a clinical textbook. What struck me most is how it validates experiences that many menstruators have felt alone in navigating. I didn't start my period until I was sixteen, and I remember feeling like the odd one out, wondering if something was wrong with me. Dr. Hussain's approach is beautifully reassuring – she explains the wide range of "normal" when it comes to menstrual experiences and helps readers understand that variations in timing, symptoms, and cycle patterns are often completely natural. The book serves as an excellent educational tool for young women who want to understand the ins and outs of their cycles, offering clear explanations for why certain symptoms occur and, importantly, presenting options for managing whatever they might be experiencing. However, I do agree with other reviewers that the sociopolitical commentary woven throughout the middle sections can feel somewhat off-topic and may affect how some readers interact with the valuable medical information. While well-intentioned (And can open the door to further research on related historical issues, such as the history of gynecology, for example), these discussions about various forms of oppression can detract from what is otherwise a well-written, scientifically grounded handbook.
Despite this critique, the book's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. Dr. Hussain's writing style strikes the perfect balance between informative and comforting, avoiding overly scientific jargon while still providing solid, evidence-based information. The result is a page-turner that feels approachable and engaging rather than intimidating. This handbook isn't just for menstruators – it's valuable reading for anyone who wants to develop more empathy and understanding around menstrual health. I'm so glad this book exists and genuinely hope it reaches as many people as possible. It's the kind of resource that could have saved so many of us from years of confusion, worry, and feeling like we were navigating our bodies' changes completely alone.
Despite this critique, the book's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. Dr. Hussain's writing style strikes the perfect balance between informative and comforting, avoiding overly scientific jargon while still providing solid, evidence-based information. The result is a page-turner that feels approachable and engaging rather than intimidating. This handbook isn't just for menstruators – it's valuable reading for anyone who wants to develop more empathy and understanding around menstrual health. I'm so glad this book exists and genuinely hope it reaches as many people as possible. It's the kind of resource that could have saved so many of us from years of confusion, worry, and feeling like we were navigating our bodies' changes completely alone.
May 29, 2024
Anne Hussain's "The Period Literacy Handbook: Everything you need to know about your menstrual cycles, period" is a groundbreaking guide that transforms how we understand and manage menstrual health. With the average person experiencing over four hundred menstrual cycles in their lifetime, this book provides an invaluable resource for navigating the complexities of hormonal changes. Hussain seamlessly integrates menstrual biology with both naturopathic and conventional medicine, offering comprehensive insights that are both scientific and accessible. The handbook addresses essential questions that many have but few understand such as, What happens during a menstrual cycle? What is considered a "normal" period? Should hormone levels be tested? How do diet and lifestyle impact menstrual health? Through detailed explanations and practical advice, Hussain demystifies these topics, making the information approachable and actionable. One of the book’s standout features is its balance between textbook-style information and the warmth of a conversation with a knowledgeable friend. Hussain covers a wide range of topics, including the socio-political context of menstruation, advocacy tools for better healthcare conversations, and strategies for syncing life with menstrual cycles. This holistic approach ensures that readers are equipped not just with knowledge but also with the tools to advocate for their health and well-being. The Period Literacy Handbook goes beyond just answering questions, it empowers readers to take control of their menstrual health. Hussain's engaging writing style makes complex medical information easy to understand and apply. Whether you are looking to solve specific period problems, optimize your health, or simply understand your body better, this book is an indispensable resource. "The Period Literacy Handbook" is a must-read for anyone seeking to achieve hormonal harmony and a more peaceful menstrual experience. Anne Hussain has created a comprehensive, user-friendly guide that will undoubtedly become a cornerstone for menstrual health education. Highly recommended.
February 8, 2025
I don’t usually read books like this, I mean books on health and medicine.
But one of my best friends has struggled with really bad periods for years, and I wanted to understand what she was going through. I figured I’d skim through it and maybe find a few helpful things, but honestly, I ended up reading way more than I expected. The Period Literacy Handbook is actually super interesting and easy to follow, even for someone like me who had no clue how complex women's health really is.
The author explains everything in a way that makes sense, even the more science-heavy stuff. She covers the basics, like what actually happens during a cycle, what’s normal vs. not normal, and how things like stress, diet, and hormones can throw everything off. There’s also a lot of practical advice about tracking cycles, dealing with period pain, and even how to talk to doctors about it (which my friend has told me can be really frustrating).
As someone who doesn’t experience periods, I found this book incredibly informative and easy to follow.
What I really liked was how the book wasn’t just medical facts—it also talks about how periods are kinda ignored in society and healthcare. It definetly made me see things differently and gave me a lot more respect for what people with periods have to deal with every month.
If you have a friend, partner, or family member who struggles with this stuff, or if you just wanna be a better ally, this book is 100% worth checking out.
I learned way more than I thought I would, and I’m glad I picked it up.
It’s clear, approachable, and filled with useful information that I think more people (especially men) should be aware of.
But one of my best friends has struggled with really bad periods for years, and I wanted to understand what she was going through. I figured I’d skim through it and maybe find a few helpful things, but honestly, I ended up reading way more than I expected. The Period Literacy Handbook is actually super interesting and easy to follow, even for someone like me who had no clue how complex women's health really is.
The author explains everything in a way that makes sense, even the more science-heavy stuff. She covers the basics, like what actually happens during a cycle, what’s normal vs. not normal, and how things like stress, diet, and hormones can throw everything off. There’s also a lot of practical advice about tracking cycles, dealing with period pain, and even how to talk to doctors about it (which my friend has told me can be really frustrating).
As someone who doesn’t experience periods, I found this book incredibly informative and easy to follow.
What I really liked was how the book wasn’t just medical facts—it also talks about how periods are kinda ignored in society and healthcare. It definetly made me see things differently and gave me a lot more respect for what people with periods have to deal with every month.
If you have a friend, partner, or family member who struggles with this stuff, or if you just wanna be a better ally, this book is 100% worth checking out.
I learned way more than I thought I would, and I’m glad I picked it up.
It’s clear, approachable, and filled with useful information that I think more people (especially men) should be aware of.
September 19, 2024
As someone that has suffered from a whole array of menstrual issues & been fobbed off by so called “doctors” for years, it is so refreshing to read something that not only makes me feel heard & seen, but provides constructive, simple steps to manage my monthly Moon Time better!
The period literacy handbook is less like being talked down to in a medical setting and more like a conversation with a really good friend in a relaxed setting. No questions are stupid, no issues are shocking, no judgements are flying. It’s girls supporting girls all the way, and I’m here for that energy!
The first part explains anatomy, the second talks about tracking your period, the third part discusses fertility & contraception, the fourth focuses on actual concerns that need to be addressed a lot more such as PCOS, cramps, endometriosis & PMS, the fifth is a fantastic chapter on the misogynistic, patriarchal stigmas against women, which as a generation we are working hard to stamp out in order for the next generation to feel safe & secure in their bodies & discussions, & the final sixth part is full of answers, tips & advice on managing the issues from the previous chapters going forward.
Dr. Anne Hussain has taken a wonderfully holistic & naturopathic approach to this under-discussed topic, and gives the reader the tools she needs to not only step into her power as a woman, but advocate for herself when necessary. Brilliantly written. I wish I’d had access to this book as a teen!
The period literacy handbook is less like being talked down to in a medical setting and more like a conversation with a really good friend in a relaxed setting. No questions are stupid, no issues are shocking, no judgements are flying. It’s girls supporting girls all the way, and I’m here for that energy!
The first part explains anatomy, the second talks about tracking your period, the third part discusses fertility & contraception, the fourth focuses on actual concerns that need to be addressed a lot more such as PCOS, cramps, endometriosis & PMS, the fifth is a fantastic chapter on the misogynistic, patriarchal stigmas against women, which as a generation we are working hard to stamp out in order for the next generation to feel safe & secure in their bodies & discussions, & the final sixth part is full of answers, tips & advice on managing the issues from the previous chapters going forward.
Dr. Anne Hussain has taken a wonderfully holistic & naturopathic approach to this under-discussed topic, and gives the reader the tools she needs to not only step into her power as a woman, but advocate for herself when necessary. Brilliantly written. I wish I’d had access to this book as a teen!
July 15, 2024
Dr. Anne Hussain's "The Period Literacy Handbook" is an extremely informative and comprehensive guide to menstruation. The handbook explores every aspect of menstruation, from the science behind our cycles, to how our lifestyles impact our individual hormonal experiences, to birth control and period products, and even touching on menstruation within our health and political system.
As someone who is rather inquisitive about the female reproductive system and open-minded about the importance of discourse and understanding, I found myself comforted by a particular feeling that came up many times in this book: that these things were some that I had never discussed, but I was indeed not alone in. I think part of the reason for this is the warm, conversational style in which this book was written, which I find a lovely merging with the deeply detailed and informative medical information. Another is the deeply detailed analysis, with both pros and cons, and honestly on each end of the spectrum, that make this handbook so trustworthy and resonant.
Understanding menstruation in this full-picture was impactful and important. It has me especially more conscious of my own habits and hormonal experiences, and that I don't need to always simply accept these experiences, because there are often more ways that I can support my body and cycles than I have perhaps given credit for.
As someone who is rather inquisitive about the female reproductive system and open-minded about the importance of discourse and understanding, I found myself comforted by a particular feeling that came up many times in this book: that these things were some that I had never discussed, but I was indeed not alone in. I think part of the reason for this is the warm, conversational style in which this book was written, which I find a lovely merging with the deeply detailed and informative medical information. Another is the deeply detailed analysis, with both pros and cons, and honestly on each end of the spectrum, that make this handbook so trustworthy and resonant.
Understanding menstruation in this full-picture was impactful and important. It has me especially more conscious of my own habits and hormonal experiences, and that I don't need to always simply accept these experiences, because there are often more ways that I can support my body and cycles than I have perhaps given credit for.
September 21, 2024
The Period Literacy Handbook by Dr. Anne Hussain is like having a candid conversation with a knowledgeable friend who just happens to be an expert on menstrual health. Dr. Hussain breaks down everything you’ve probably wondered about your period—what’s normal, what’s not, and how to get in sync with your hormonal cycle in a way that feels manageable and relatable.
What I love about this book is how it makes something that often feels overwhelming or confusing really easy to understand. Dr. Hussain answers all the big questions, like whether you should get your hormones tested, if certain foods can improve your period, and how to talk to your doctor about any concerns you might have. It's not just about the science behind your cycle—it’s about living in a way that works with your body, not against it.
She also dives into topics like syncing your life with your menstrual cycle, which honestly, I found so helpful. Whether you're someone who’s just starting to pay attention to your cycle or you’ve been dealing with period issues for years, this book is packed with useful tips and insights that anyone can benefit from.
Overall, The Period Literacy Handbook is a fantastic, approachable guide for anyone wanting to better understand their menstrual health. If you’ve ever had questions about your period and didn’t know where to start, this is the book for you!
What I love about this book is how it makes something that often feels overwhelming or confusing really easy to understand. Dr. Hussain answers all the big questions, like whether you should get your hormones tested, if certain foods can improve your period, and how to talk to your doctor about any concerns you might have. It's not just about the science behind your cycle—it’s about living in a way that works with your body, not against it.
She also dives into topics like syncing your life with your menstrual cycle, which honestly, I found so helpful. Whether you're someone who’s just starting to pay attention to your cycle or you’ve been dealing with period issues for years, this book is packed with useful tips and insights that anyone can benefit from.
Overall, The Period Literacy Handbook is a fantastic, approachable guide for anyone wanting to better understand their menstrual health. If you’ve ever had questions about your period and didn’t know where to start, this is the book for you!
March 17, 2025
I found this book very informative as I learned so much about our female anatomy which we hardly learn about in school nor do we talk about it much with doctors to understand our bodies better. I now understand more of why I went through such painful periods as I had adenomyosis and endometriosis. I can also explain things better to my daughter before she will start hers in a couple of years. I think it is very important to know what is happening in our bodies and also why it is happening. The way the author speaks to you is like a fun friend who can explain it in an easy to follow manner. There are parts where humor is added which also makes for a serious subject to be more enjoyable to understand and read about. I appreciate the author putting out a book about a topic I felt was taboo growing up. I had not idea what a period was at the age of 10. It sounds like she came from a similar type of background so it was very relatable. I will make sure my little girl understands it and feels comfortable about this natural part of being a woman. If you are looking for a better understanding of your female body and what it does every month, this is a great read!
September 22, 2025
My initial impression of this book is that it is comprehensive and I think having finished it now that impression remains true for the first half of the book that deals with the scientific and medical side of periods. The book is written in a warm and conversational tone that is easy to follow and approachable as someone with no medical degree or training who has not studied science since high school. To the best of my knowledge all the information seems correct and accurate, as well as backed by referencing. However the author offers fairly frequent editorial asides in her writing, at the start of the book I really liked this but it does start to become annoying the more chapters you read.
Other reviewers have made comments about section 5 of the book which expands outside of the medical field and attempts to place menstruating in a broader context that considers political and cultural factors. I felt the insights in this chapter were just skimming the surface of subject matter that could (and does) have entire books dedicated to it. I also felt there was room to include more human experience in the book, the first chapter opens with the authors own experience of her first period and I felt their room for more accounts like this that could have added to depth of knowledge and research contained.
Other reviewers have made comments about section 5 of the book which expands outside of the medical field and attempts to place menstruating in a broader context that considers political and cultural factors. I felt the insights in this chapter were just skimming the surface of subject matter that could (and does) have entire books dedicated to it. I also felt there was room to include more human experience in the book, the first chapter opens with the authors own experience of her first period and I felt their room for more accounts like this that could have added to depth of knowledge and research contained.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews