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Period.: A Girl's Guide
For parents who do not know how or where to begin this discussion, here are ideas to get them started. A detachable Parent's Guide will lead them through the learning process for themselves and their daughters—and even their sons. The Parent's Guide can also be found in its entirety on the Book Peddlers website at www.bookpeddlers.com. In it you will
• Talking About Menstruation • What's The Right Age To Share Information? • Who Begins?
• What About The Boys? • Creating Your Own Right-of-Passage.
• Talking About Menstruation • What's The Right Age To Share Information? • Who Begins?
• What About The Boys? • Creating Your Own Right-of-Passage.
- GenresNonfictionParenting
100 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 1979
17 people are currently reading
111 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
April 20, 2011
The other day, while I was waiting for some sort of substantial reading to finally come in at the library, I decided to preoccupy myself with this book. It is one of two puberty-related books I was given by my parents when I was little and still have. My version is actually a first edition, published back in 1981. And seriously: I loved rereading it. Granted, I'm sure it's not as hip as the newer versions (hopefully) are: it only acknowledges the existence of hetero couples and it glosses over the clit (never explaining it as a source of pleasure and stimulation), for example. But it was lovely to read it (along with a pamphlet I have from 1979 called THE PERILS OF PUBERTY) for all its rising feminist glory. And it made me realize that thankfully my parents were (at least inadvertently) open-minded enough to give me a book that has cut-outs that you can wear of the female reproductive system and which doesn't treat boys as the end-all and be-all of existence.
February 13, 2022
Written in 1979, this book is notable for being one of the first contemporary puberty books.
January 13, 2021
I've given this book 2* because it includes body positivity and mentions there's no perfect body shape and all bodies are different.
However, when it comes to talk about periods, this book is missing much information that's widely available and well known nowadays:
-There's no taboo breaking and it continually refers to feelings of embarrassment for being on the period. It even has a section on how to dispose of menstrual products without offending others. I mean, unless you throw a used pad or tampon on someone's face, you won't be offending anyone! It they can see it's been used, oh well, that's why it's in the bin. C'mon!
It also mentions that people will tease you (even your parents, apparently!), you'll feel embarrassed and that you won't feel comfortable with your body changes... And obviously mentions that boys will tease. Let's not continue to normalise these statements, please. It is not OK for anyone to tease you for being on your period and if you are taught and learn about the changes you'll feel at ease with them. If you have a period, that just shows your body is working correctly.
-Chapter one does not spend enough time explaining the body changes in detail, there's just one short and all jumbled up paragraph. It doesn't mention when to expect these changes or how to recognise them.
-chapter 2 talks about the female genitalia and it mentions the clitoris (hooray!) But it doesn't mention its function. There's no frontal cross section of the female anatomy and the language can get quite technical to be understood by 6-10 years old.
-Chapter 3 talks about what's the period but doesn't say how to know when to expect it (again, referring back to the body changes and what to look for). It talks about 'a lining' without naming if (endometrio) and barely mentions the vaginal discharge and the different types of it depending if you're preovulating or after ovulation. There's no mention of the whole menstrual cycle, just that it's 26-32 days long.
-chapter 4 is about pads and tampons. It says tampons can be flushed (please don't!) And that pads should be changed twice a day (please more often). It does not emphasize the severity of TSS. It includes the very old-fashioned belt (says your mother might have used it... No chance!) And does not invest time in mentioning that disposable tampons and pads can be full of toxic chemicals or how it's not good that they are fraganced. It also does barely mention reusable/sustainable pads and the menstrual cup and suggest you better get used to a disposable one first... But why? It says you should wash your hands before hand and of course afterwards. Look, if I've got to choose I'd rather wash them before and not afterwards than otherwise, to avoid infections.
The fact that it suggests that if you don't have a pad/tampon you fold some paper instead of asking for one just shows how it has no period positivity and encourages this taboo we live surrounded by when it comes to menstruation.
Chapter 5 is full of questions and some shocking answers. Page 42 teaches you ways you can hide a pad/tampon. Let's normalise menstruation so people don't have to hide them!
Pages 43/74/75 only recommend to note down the day you get your period. Yes, this is useful but, you should also note the consistency, colour and heaviness of it as well as when you have vaginal discharge and what it looks like.
Page 44 says periods can hurt. Don't be fooled. It shouldn't hurt. If it does, check with a doctor.
Page 45 recommends taking an aspiring for the cramps. Don't. Aspirin will make you bleed even more as it thins blood.
Page 46 talks about PMS and how you can be sad or grumpy. It's not as simple. Get to know the 4 phases of your full cycle and you'll connect with yourself and understand your body and needs and moods.
Page 49 talks about douching. All you have to know is 'DON'T DOUCH. YOUR VAGINA CLEANS ITSELF. DON'T CLEAN THE INSIDE OF YOUR VULVA. And to clean the outer lips, clitoris, etc. (What you can see) use specific soap or just water.
Page 50 mentions again that's it's normal to feel embarrassed. It is not. Get to know your body. Read better books. Use a mirror to look at yourself. Ask experts. And be proud of who you are.
Chapter 6 goes on again about shame, and I just am tired now of saying that we should be period positive and stop embarrassing each other. Let's break the taboos around period.
Chapter 7 is about pelvic exam. Useful and clear, not needed at this stage yet but it's mentioned so, ok.
The parent's guide mentions to talk to your child(ren) many times and not just have a talk once or twice. This is a very good point. But please talk from a period positivity mind and style, don't gift this book to your child.
And finally, two more points. this book misses out the relation between menstrual cycles and reproduction. It's essential children are aware of it. Secondly, let's not forget not only women menstruate. This book is not just a GIRL'S guide. If it had all the important and relevant information with a positive mindset to it, it should be a guide on menstruation, to everyone those who menstruate (some women, some trans men, some intersex, some gender fluid,...) And those who don't menstruate because they too should know what goes on in over half the population's body and only by them learning about it too we will be able to break the taboos around menstruation.
However, when it comes to talk about periods, this book is missing much information that's widely available and well known nowadays:
-There's no taboo breaking and it continually refers to feelings of embarrassment for being on the period. It even has a section on how to dispose of menstrual products without offending others. I mean, unless you throw a used pad or tampon on someone's face, you won't be offending anyone! It they can see it's been used, oh well, that's why it's in the bin. C'mon!
It also mentions that people will tease you (even your parents, apparently!), you'll feel embarrassed and that you won't feel comfortable with your body changes... And obviously mentions that boys will tease. Let's not continue to normalise these statements, please. It is not OK for anyone to tease you for being on your period and if you are taught and learn about the changes you'll feel at ease with them. If you have a period, that just shows your body is working correctly.
-Chapter one does not spend enough time explaining the body changes in detail, there's just one short and all jumbled up paragraph. It doesn't mention when to expect these changes or how to recognise them.
-chapter 2 talks about the female genitalia and it mentions the clitoris (hooray!) But it doesn't mention its function. There's no frontal cross section of the female anatomy and the language can get quite technical to be understood by 6-10 years old.
-Chapter 3 talks about what's the period but doesn't say how to know when to expect it (again, referring back to the body changes and what to look for). It talks about 'a lining' without naming if (endometrio) and barely mentions the vaginal discharge and the different types of it depending if you're preovulating or after ovulation. There's no mention of the whole menstrual cycle, just that it's 26-32 days long.
-chapter 4 is about pads and tampons. It says tampons can be flushed (please don't!) And that pads should be changed twice a day (please more often). It does not emphasize the severity of TSS. It includes the very old-fashioned belt (says your mother might have used it... No chance!) And does not invest time in mentioning that disposable tampons and pads can be full of toxic chemicals or how it's not good that they are fraganced. It also does barely mention reusable/sustainable pads and the menstrual cup and suggest you better get used to a disposable one first... But why? It says you should wash your hands before hand and of course afterwards. Look, if I've got to choose I'd rather wash them before and not afterwards than otherwise, to avoid infections.
The fact that it suggests that if you don't have a pad/tampon you fold some paper instead of asking for one just shows how it has no period positivity and encourages this taboo we live surrounded by when it comes to menstruation.
Chapter 5 is full of questions and some shocking answers. Page 42 teaches you ways you can hide a pad/tampon. Let's normalise menstruation so people don't have to hide them!
Pages 43/74/75 only recommend to note down the day you get your period. Yes, this is useful but, you should also note the consistency, colour and heaviness of it as well as when you have vaginal discharge and what it looks like.
Page 44 says periods can hurt. Don't be fooled. It shouldn't hurt. If it does, check with a doctor.
Page 45 recommends taking an aspiring for the cramps. Don't. Aspirin will make you bleed even more as it thins blood.
Page 46 talks about PMS and how you can be sad or grumpy. It's not as simple. Get to know the 4 phases of your full cycle and you'll connect with yourself and understand your body and needs and moods.
Page 49 talks about douching. All you have to know is 'DON'T DOUCH. YOUR VAGINA CLEANS ITSELF. DON'T CLEAN THE INSIDE OF YOUR VULVA. And to clean the outer lips, clitoris, etc. (What you can see) use specific soap or just water.
Page 50 mentions again that's it's normal to feel embarrassed. It is not. Get to know your body. Read better books. Use a mirror to look at yourself. Ask experts. And be proud of who you are.
Chapter 6 goes on again about shame, and I just am tired now of saying that we should be period positive and stop embarrassing each other. Let's break the taboos around period.
Chapter 7 is about pelvic exam. Useful and clear, not needed at this stage yet but it's mentioned so, ok.
The parent's guide mentions to talk to your child(ren) many times and not just have a talk once or twice. This is a very good point. But please talk from a period positivity mind and style, don't gift this book to your child.
And finally, two more points. this book misses out the relation between menstrual cycles and reproduction. It's essential children are aware of it. Secondly, let's not forget not only women menstruate. This book is not just a GIRL'S guide. If it had all the important and relevant information with a positive mindset to it, it should be a guide on menstruation, to everyone those who menstruate (some women, some trans men, some intersex, some gender fluid,...) And those who don't menstruate because they too should know what goes on in over half the population's body and only by them learning about it too we will be able to break the taboos around menstruation.
September 24, 2022
Not bad for a book from 1979.
October 17, 2021
A concise and clear description of menstruation - what to expect, options for management, common questions girls don’t often know when/how to ask, myth-busting (eg, can I still exercise with my period), and what to expect the first time you visit the Gynecologist (this section was great and also has an empowering/self-management feel applicable to supporting adolescents/YA transition to adult care). There is also a shorter focus on other body changes and how emotions change/feel during puberty.
The brief parent guide first emphasizes the ongoing nature of puberty discussions (eg., saying something once doesn’t relieve a parent of their duty or check it off their list) and developmental approach to kids listening. There are also parent quotes that support conversations with their child even when it is difficult (and an wonderful emphasis on this being an open coparenting discussion in divorced/separated families). Some helpful strategies are also presented on how to start the conversation.
This book is also available in Spanish.
The brief parent guide first emphasizes the ongoing nature of puberty discussions (eg., saying something once doesn’t relieve a parent of their duty or check it off their list) and developmental approach to kids listening. There are also parent quotes that support conversations with their child even when it is difficult (and an wonderful emphasis on this being an open coparenting discussion in divorced/separated families). Some helpful strategies are also presented on how to start the conversation.
This book is also available in Spanish.
May 6, 2024
A sound guide to that bodily function, written for an adolescent. It also comes with a parent's guide that is removable. I picked this up because I have a friend with a daughter, and this looked worth checking out. I plant to send it to her now that I have reviewed it because it has sensble advice and sound information.
January 3, 2026
Este libro me lo compró mi mamá para que entendiera todo el tema de la menstruación y todo eso siento que debería ser una lectura obligatoria para todas las escuelas porque es de mucha ayuda siendo que todavía es un tema tabú para muchas familias
July 1, 2017
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June 13, 2019
Straight forward information for girls that have yet to get their period.
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July 18, 2018Radiolab asked listeners for their sex ed recommendations.
Megan, a Radiolab listener, says, "It was a gift from my mom and was shared by me with only my very best friends. Also, there was a cut-out female reproductive system that was drawn to scale."
Megan, a Radiolab listener, says, "It was a gift from my mom and was shared by me with only my very best friends. Also, there was a cut-out female reproductive system that was drawn to scale."
Read
December 15, 2013Every Monday, The CSPH takes a look at a book or film focusing on an aspect of sexuality. This week we are featuring Period: A Girl’s Guide by JoAnn Loulan and Bonnie Worthen with illustrations by Martha Quackenbush.
Period has been educating girls of all ages and their parents about menstruation since its original publication in 1979. In the most recent 2000 edition, Period offers developmentally appropriate and bolstering information about the physical and psychological changes at the onset of menstruation.
Topics discussed in the first chapter include changes the body undergoes during puberty, the different ways people experience those changes, and how films, advertisements, and other women can impact self-esteem. The authors encourage girls to remember that everybody (and every body) is different and to work on becoming comfortable in their own skin by thinking of the things they like about themselves. To emphasize this point, the book uses simple line drawings featuring a diverse and inclusive group of girls participating in various activities.
Chapter two talks about the organs “that only girls and women have,” offering cross sections of reproductive organs and definitions of each organ’s purpose with a helpful pronunciation guide, giving readers medically accurate terminology. At a moment when sex education in public schools is hotly contested—where it exists at all—it is important that young people have the tools to discuss their lives and bodies.
The chapter on menstruation describes the ovum’s journey through the fallopian tubes and the buildup of the uterine lining. By not mentioning sex or why “the egg just visits and then passes on,” the authors make this a useful text for teachers, parents, or guardians who want to focus on one discrete aspect of the reproductive cycle at a time. Interestingly enough, this is the shortest chapter in the slim volume, highlighting the fact that the cultural meanings we assign to and the emotions we experience about menstruation are, in many ways, more important to young girls than the biology.
Later chapters give practical advice on how to use pads or tampons and what to do when caught without one. They answer questions about exercising; smells; how people feel before, during, and after menstruation; and PMS, and offer advice on how to alleviate cramps (with the humorous note that “whining to others may make you feel better—but probably not”). Another chapter explains what to expect during a pelvic exam.
In their conclusion, the authors remind readers that “no two people are ever quite the same” and “to ask questions and get answers to things about your life that you don’t understand.” By using inclusive illustrations, simple and direct language, and a focus on the various and often contradictory emotions surrounding menstruation, Period fulfills those mandates. It is a thoughtful resource for young people and their parents, offering reassurance and easily digestible information.
However, in some ways the book shows the limitations of its age: the parents’ section assumes a heterosexual pairing and language referring to organs “that only girls and women have” excludes trans*, non-binary, and intersex individuals. Despite these flaws, the book’s presentation of clear, concise, and compassionate information makes it easy to see why Period has been in print and updated for over thirty years. Though the publishers suggest the book for ages 8 and up, it is a good guide to have lying around earlier to start discussions and allow curious readers to learn at their own pace.
Period has been educating girls of all ages and their parents about menstruation since its original publication in 1979. In the most recent 2000 edition, Period offers developmentally appropriate and bolstering information about the physical and psychological changes at the onset of menstruation.
Topics discussed in the first chapter include changes the body undergoes during puberty, the different ways people experience those changes, and how films, advertisements, and other women can impact self-esteem. The authors encourage girls to remember that everybody (and every body) is different and to work on becoming comfortable in their own skin by thinking of the things they like about themselves. To emphasize this point, the book uses simple line drawings featuring a diverse and inclusive group of girls participating in various activities.
Chapter two talks about the organs “that only girls and women have,” offering cross sections of reproductive organs and definitions of each organ’s purpose with a helpful pronunciation guide, giving readers medically accurate terminology. At a moment when sex education in public schools is hotly contested—where it exists at all—it is important that young people have the tools to discuss their lives and bodies.
The chapter on menstruation describes the ovum’s journey through the fallopian tubes and the buildup of the uterine lining. By not mentioning sex or why “the egg just visits and then passes on,” the authors make this a useful text for teachers, parents, or guardians who want to focus on one discrete aspect of the reproductive cycle at a time. Interestingly enough, this is the shortest chapter in the slim volume, highlighting the fact that the cultural meanings we assign to and the emotions we experience about menstruation are, in many ways, more important to young girls than the biology.
Later chapters give practical advice on how to use pads or tampons and what to do when caught without one. They answer questions about exercising; smells; how people feel before, during, and after menstruation; and PMS, and offer advice on how to alleviate cramps (with the humorous note that “whining to others may make you feel better—but probably not”). Another chapter explains what to expect during a pelvic exam.
In their conclusion, the authors remind readers that “no two people are ever quite the same” and “to ask questions and get answers to things about your life that you don’t understand.” By using inclusive illustrations, simple and direct language, and a focus on the various and often contradictory emotions surrounding menstruation, Period fulfills those mandates. It is a thoughtful resource for young people and their parents, offering reassurance and easily digestible information.
However, in some ways the book shows the limitations of its age: the parents’ section assumes a heterosexual pairing and language referring to organs “that only girls and women have” excludes trans*, non-binary, and intersex individuals. Despite these flaws, the book’s presentation of clear, concise, and compassionate information makes it easy to see why Period has been in print and updated for over thirty years. Though the publishers suggest the book for ages 8 and up, it is a good guide to have lying around earlier to start discussions and allow curious readers to learn at their own pace.
January 30, 2018
I don't like that the very first page of this book is about images of perfect women as see on TV, etc even though it's a message about how we don't have to live up to these standards. Do books "for boys" talk about this?
In the section that descrbies body parts they don't use the word vulva!! That is unacceptable.
This books has large blocks of text that are unappealing to me and would most likely be so for my young daughter. Especially when there are so many options out there, this book just doesn't measure up.
In the section that descrbies body parts they don't use the word vulva!! That is unacceptable.
This books has large blocks of text that are unappealing to me and would most likely be so for my young daughter. Especially when there are so many options out there, this book just doesn't measure up.
February 22, 2008
I checked this book out of the library about 25 times as a preteen. I wanted to be ready for what I thought was going to be the most exciting moment of my life. Oh, to be young again!
This book was invaluable to me then. It includes everything that my parents were waaaaaay too uncomfortable discussing with me.
This book was invaluable to me then. It includes everything that my parents were waaaaaay too uncomfortable discussing with me.
February 17, 2009
Good no nonsense book for explaining our lovely monthly gift (can you hear the sarcasm dripping?). I liked this one because it sticks to the topic, gives good information and explains growing up with out the "sex talk". I think it is perfect for younger girls, that don't need the sex talk just yet but do need to be informed about the menstrual cycle!
February 1, 2017
This is a good book for parents who want to focus on the basics of menstruation without incorporating other aspects of sex and puberty. Respectful and detailed regarding practical tips and tricks.
February 18, 2014
read an earlier edition of this book as a kid. i think my mom bought it for me, to go along with "the talk." this book was fun, and made the whole period thing seem less scary.
July 17, 2014
Good information presented in plain language.
March 6, 2013
Very good book only about a new girls period. Excellent pre teen book.
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January 27, 2018First of all thank you for being you and doing your awesome show! I listen to every episode and keep my notebook handy to add to my TBR list!
So, the reason I am writing to you is to ask for reading recommendations for my 9-year-old daughter, who just got her period. She seems pretty comfortable with it, and we are re-reading the American Girl book The Care and Feeding of You, which is pretty basic.
She reads at a 7th-grade level, so that’s not an issue, but I would like stuff that’s not too overwhelming on a subject level. I would like both non-fiction informational books like the one we have, but also fiction chapter books about girls getting their periods early (I know 9 is technically normal, but it feels so early to me!) would be REALLY nice. I’m talking body positivity here!
She’s the first in her group of friends to get her period. We are homeschoolers and I have a really supportive group of moms who are helping me, but I could use a couple reading recommendations as well, like How To Not Freak When Your 9-Year-Old Daughter Gets Her Period. Something like that?
Thanks so much in advance for saving my sanity!
Freaked Mom Carrie
So, the reason I am writing to you is to ask for reading recommendations for my 9-year-old daughter, who just got her period. She seems pretty comfortable with it, and we are re-reading the American Girl book The Care and Feeding of You, which is pretty basic.
She reads at a 7th-grade level, so that’s not an issue, but I would like stuff that’s not too overwhelming on a subject level. I would like both non-fiction informational books like the one we have, but also fiction chapter books about girls getting their periods early (I know 9 is technically normal, but it feels so early to me!) would be REALLY nice. I’m talking body positivity here!
She’s the first in her group of friends to get her period. We are homeschoolers and I have a really supportive group of moms who are helping me, but I could use a couple reading recommendations as well, like How To Not Freak When Your 9-Year-Old Daughter Gets Her Period. Something like that?
Thanks so much in advance for saving my sanity!
Freaked Mom Carrie
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews