Period: The Real Story of Menstruation

Menstruation is a monthly biological process that is often misunderstood and stigmatized. Period counters false theories and provides an intersectional feminist perspective on menstruation science, challenging myths and false assumptions about menstrual cycles. It also addresses timely issues such as bodily autonomy, menstrual hygiene, and the COVID-19 vaccine, and how racism, sexism, and medical betrayal warp public perceptions of menstruation and erase it from public life.

Format: Hardback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 18 April 2023
Publisher: Princeton University Press

Menstruation is a significant and often misunderstood aspect of human life, impacting half the world's population for months and years on end. Despite its prevalence, scientific understanding and attitudes towards menstruation have been limited and often inaccurate. In the past, scientists viewed the menstrual cycle as useless and even considered it unsafe for menstruating individuals to engage in certain activities, such as swimming in the ocean while wearing a tampon.

Period, a groundbreaking book by Kate Clancy, challenges these false theories and provides a comprehensive and intersectional feminist perspective on the science and cultural history of menstruation. Through a blend of interviews, personal experiences, and engaging stories from her pioneering research, Clancy dismantles a host of myths and misconceptions surrounding menstruation.

One of the key themes explored in Period is the notion of a "normal" menstrual cycle. Clancy argues that menstrual cycles are incredibly variable and highly responsive to environmental and psychological stressors. She challenges the idea that there is a universal pattern of menstrual symptoms and bleeding, emphasizing the diversity of experiences among individuals.

Clancy also takes up a range of timely issues surrounding menstruation, including bodily autonomy, menstrual hygiene, and the COVID-19 vaccine. She explores how these issues intersect with issues of racism, sexism, and medical betrayal, which shape public perceptions of menstruation and contribute to its erasure from public life.

Period offers a revelatory new perspective on one of the most captivating biological processes in the human body. By challenging false assumptions and illuminating the historical and cultural contexts of menstruation, Clancy aims to change the way we think about the past, present, and future of periods. The book provides valuable insights into the experiences of menstruating individuals, raises awareness about menstrual health and rights, and encourages a more inclusive and respectful approach to menstruation.

In conclusion, Period is a groundbreaking book that offers a bold and revolutionary perspective on the science and cultural history of menstruation. Through a comprehensive and intersectional feminist lens, Kate Clancy challenges false theories, dismantles myths, and provides valuable insights into the experiences of menstruating individuals. The book offers a timely and essential contribution to the ongoing conversation about gender, health, and social justice, and is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of menstruation and its impact on society.

Weight: 522g
Dimension: 167 x 243 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691191317