Introduction -- 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 -- Premenstrual symptoms : pMS, PMDD, and breast pain -- Beyond the uterus : hormones and your health -- Menstrual tracking -- The history and safety of menstrual products -- Modern menstrual products -- Menstrual product myths -- Part 3. Bleeding and pain -- A primer on abnormal bleeding -- Heavy periods -- Bleeding bingo : when they 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.