Period. by Natalie Byrne

Short Summary

Period. by Natalie Byrne is a beautifully illustrated and inclusive guide that covers everything kids and teens need to know about periods. First published in 2018, this 200-page book is practical, engaging, and designed for anyone with a uterus – not just girls. It breaks down the menstrual cycle, period products, body changes, and self-care in a straightforward way, making it a brilliant resource for families wanting to start shame-free conversations about menstruation.

Age Group

Suitable for children aged 10 to 14 years.

Topics Discussed

Periods | Recommended

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Buy a Copy

Buy a copy of Period. by Natalie Byrne from Amazon.

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What this book is about

  • Period. is an inclusive book that speaks to anyone who menstruates, making it supportive for trans and non-binary young people as well as girls.
  • It explains what’s happening inside the body during the menstrual cycle, including fertility and hormonal changes, in language that’s easy for kids to follow.
  • Covers practical period care: pads, tampons, cups, and more, with detailed instructions on how to use them safely and hygienically.
  • Offers reassurance about common experiences like PMS, cramps, pimples, and the different colours of period blood.
  • Provides guidance on vaginal health and how to look after your body during menstruation.
  • Starts with pads – an excellent beginner-friendly approach – before expanding into other products, including pros and cons to help kids decide what works for them.
  • Includes diagrams, illustrations, and fun visuals that make the information accessible and less intimidating.
  • Touches on history, activism, and period poverty, giving readers a sense of the bigger picture around menstruation and access to products.
  • Some specific brand mentions appear, but the overall content remains educational and empowering.
  • The tone is supportive, inclusive, and body-positive, helping kids feel prepared rather than embarrassed about periods.
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I hope you find this book review helpful!

Happy talking!
❤️ Cath

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Cath Hakanson is a qualified family sex educator, sexual health nurse and author with 30+ years of clinical and education experience. As an AuDHD parent of two neurodivergent children, she creates clear, practical sex ed resources that help parents talk about bodies, puberty, consent, porn, relationships and sex without shame or judgement.