5 books on periods to understand your menstrual cycle

Like everything traditionally associated with femininity, menstruation has its share of myths and misconceptions . Beyond the blood itself, contraception, mood swings, fertility, and the devastating effects of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) are also still taboo subjects…

Despite improved scientific understanding, the average person (AKA us) hasn't received much education about their own menstrual cycle. It's time to change that and better understand your period. To help you explore your cycle, we recommend 5 books about periods and their fascinating world. 

Turn your period into a superpower: Love Your Cycle by Gaëlle Baldassari

If you've already read our article on the phases of the menstrual cycle , you already know why understanding your cycle is life-changing . Reconnecting with your body, accepting your emotions with kindness, and better organization: it's all about giving yourself a good dose of self-love!

Before it was a book, Kiffe ton Cycle was a movement launched by Gaëlle Baldassari. Having gone through burnout and difficulties conceiving a child, the author examined the workings of her menstruation to find the key to her well-being.

In her book, she tells us all about hormones and their influence on our bodies. The fluctuations of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone then become waves that we learn to surf.

Ultra-clear, accessible and comprehensive, Kiffe ton Cycle links hormones with emotions to teach us how to use each phase to our advantage.

To go even further, Gaëlle offers online programs dedicated to tracking the menstrual cycle, first periods, and PMS . 

Learn to track your menstrual cycle: The female cycle and natural contraception by Audrey Guillemaud

Have you ever heard of natural contraception? Symptothermal methods are a way of observing your cycle that can also be used to monitor your fertility.

Of course, gaining an intimate understanding of how your body works doesn't happen overnight. Fortunately for us, Audrey Guillemaud has written a comprehensive guide to help us.

In this book, the author invites you to embody a conscious and fulfilled femininity. She popularizes scientific data using clear language and beautiful illustrations.

Once the basics are established, she provides you with a precise method for identifying your fertile and infertile periods . This tracking is done using a dedicated notebook, available at the end of the book. You can record your body temperature, the appearance of your cervical mucus, and the position of your cervix.

The added bonus: a chart so the man can observe himself too. The book will therefore be useful for all types of couples who want to understand and embrace their cyclical nature. 

To understand the taboo surrounding menstruation: This Is My Blood by Élise Thiébaut

We previously recommended This Is My Blood in our selection of books to help you feel powerful . It's still on this list because we love it.

Unlike the two previous books, which are more practical, this book on periods is an intimate account of forty years of menstruation. 

The author depicts her experience as a menstruating woman and explores the history of women's relationship with their menstrual flow. Throughout the book, she shares her questions and anthropological, cultural, and even social insights.

His humorous speech is supported by scientific research to demystify, in an educational way, this natural phenomenon shared by many of us.

Rules and Spirituality: Red Moon by Miranda Gray

Red Moon is a bit like the mystical and sacred counterpart to Kiffe ton cycle (Enjoy Your Cycle). Miranda Gray presents her more spiritual and symbolic version of cycle tracking.

The author draws parallels between traditional tales, feminine archetypes, and the phases of the moon to better understand each phase of the menstrual cycle. This framework allows us to connect with the wisdom within ourselves and to live in harmony with our energies.

By combining stories with practical tools and exercises, Miranda Gray aims to introduce modern women to their cyclical nature and thus gives them "the means to fully enjoy a passionate and creative existence".

Although the link between the menstrual cycle and the phases of the moon has never been scientifically proven, the metaphor is still inspiring. 

For your daughter, little sister, niece: Periods, what an adventure! by Élise Thiébaut and Mirion Malle

Because you can explore its power from age 7 to 77, we wanted to include a children's book in our recommendations of books about periods.

Superbly illustrated by feminist illustrator Mirion Malle, this playful book is primarily aimed at pre-teens experiencing their first period . Reassuring and educational, it prepares them for choosing menstrual hygiene products and for their first appointment with a gynecologist.

We especially love the insights it offers into taboos and the history of menstruation. We're willing to bet that even adults will learn something new about their periods!

There are more and more books about periods, and that's great news. Each book is a step closer to a healthy relationship with your body and a more mindful reconnection with your menstrual cycle. If you'd like to continue making peace with your period, why not try having sex or masturbating during your period? Here's an article you might enjoy!