Includes bibliographical references and index.

Part 1. The menstrual cycle, a primer. Why menstruation? -- Menstrual cycle 101 -- The brain-brain-ovary connection -- The basics of bleeding -- Reproductive hormones: a handbook -- Menarche: journey to the first period -- Menopause: the afterparty -- Part 2. Common concerns and menstrual maintenance. The pelvic exam -- Prementrual symptons: PMS, PMDD, and breast pain -- Beyond the uterus: hormones and your health -- Menstrual tracking -- The history and safety of mentrual products -- Modern menstrual products -- Menstrual product myths -- Part 3. Bleeding and pain. A primer on abnormal bleeding -- Heavy periods -- Bleeding bingo: when periods stop, when they become irregular, and breakthrough bleeding -- Polycystic ovarian syndrome -- Painful periods -- Endometriosis -- Alternative therapies for menstrual pain -- Part 4. Contraception and abortion. The history of hormonal contraception -- Estrogen-containing contraceptives: the modern pill, patch and ring -- Progestin-only methods -- Emergency contraception -- The history of the intrauterine device -- The modern intrauterine device -- Abortion -- Surgical sterilization, barrier contraception, and fertility awareness methods -- Contraception potpourri.