I thoroughly enjoyed this book, despite its size and sometimes dry lists of side effects. I have read a few books on women's health/medical treatment of women, and this is the first one that has been trans-inclusive. I also appreciated the frequent mentions of purity culture and the harmful myths that has pushed on a generation of women. This book is no-nonsense, and clearly goes over the pros and cons or evidence and lack of evidence for so many things related to menstruation. I think huge sections of this book would be great for high school health class, and the rest of it is excellent when the particular set of circumstances applies - choosing the right birth control, understanding PCOS or endometriosis, and other things that might not apply to everyone right now. The woo woo natural medicine and homeopathy are brought up often, mentioning what evidence there is (often none) for these treatments. Pain and the host of symptoms that often come with a period are not normal, and no one should embrace them as natural if they don't want to. ( )

This was a comprehensive, well-organized book, and I will be getting my own copy for re-reading and reference. ( )

I've really enjoyed Jen Gunter's other books, and I was excited that my local library acquired her new release as soon as it came out! Blood has a very specific focus on menstruation: what's normal, what's abnormal, what some causes of abnormalities may be, what treatments can be used for certain symptoms, etcetera. I appreciated her inclusive language--and her few pointed tirades against the patriarchy.

There is some overlap with the content of previous books, but it's been years since I read them, so I approached this one with fresh eyes. As ever, I learned a lot of incredibly useful scientific facts, things that will make me much more educated in future doctor visits. She does, at times, delve deep into medical terminology; there were a few pages where I had to skim because the content was going beyond me. There are frequent illustrations, however, to help explain concepts. ( )

nonfiction, health, educational, science

Excellent handbook for anyone with uterus and ovaries. In a time when some think that everyone is aware of what goes on with the body of someone in possession of those definitive body parts, there are still some sects and other nationalities that believe that menstruation is a curse and that those who do so must absolutely be segregated from everyone during the time of bleeding. Even "enlightened" people have no idea that their bleeding experiences are not universal. The information covers so many aspects that it must be read to appreciate its scope.
It is an excellent teaching tool in private or in groups, and would be a good gift for many and especially your local public library.
I requested and received an EARC from Kensington Books, Citadel via NetGalley. Thank you! ( )