Review: It's About Bloody Time Period by Emma Barnett

Whether you love or hate your period it's time to talk about it!

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@shereadsbooks.sometimes

Dates read: 19/02/2022 to 03/03/2022

Star rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Word to describe: Relentless

Genre: Non-Fiction

Periods are better known by most as Aunt Flo, or that dreaded Time Of The Month, and are a vital part of sexual reproduction and the livelihood of every human being. Without those drops of blood each month, the ability to reproduce would not exist for humankind (no menstrual cycle means no eggs for those swimmers. Sex education is important folks). Yet, as Emma Barnett eloquently discusses in her book, It's About Bloody Time Period, these drops of blood are shunned and outcasted as revolting, dirty, and, God forbid, a result of sinning. This book greatly summarises the questions most women are asking: why can't we discuss our periods? and why are people so ashamed of it?! And why are sanitary products so damn expensive?!! Maybe that last one is just me.

We all bleed. Even those who do not gender identify as a female have the capability to get a period (the transgender community can educate you more here and here). And as Emma Barnett beautifully summarises in chapter eleven, Wanted and Unwanted Blood, everyone's reaction to their period can differ. This chapter, in particular, really resonated with me. From someone who was never too bothered about her monthly periods, (I'm one of the lucky few who never truly suffered from any debilitating side effects, such as menstrual cramps), and only became to consider the effect of my menstrual cycle on my body following the introduction of birth control, I was genuinely curious into how others may perceive their cycle.

I have a love-hate relationship with my own cycle. Birth control introduced extended periods and cramping that I had never had before. And although I have a dislike for my newfound cycle, I am mostly unabashed by its presence in my life. Wanted and Unwanted Blood showed me a side of periods I had never been personally exposed to. From the point of view of a woman born without a uterus, and her desire and desperation for the monthly bleed, to a young transgender activist, who despises their own for adding to their gender dysphoria. Even detailing the hurt and torment of endometriosis and its effects on fertility for wannabe parents. It was eye-opening to read about these completely contradicting, yet, entirely personal and emotional views, and compare that to my own pleasantly comfortable experience.

I like to believe that I am a feminist in thoughts, speech, and actions. Yet, the more books I read that highlight these issues; the more aware I become. This book is powerful. It advocates for an issue that I personally have never had, but can wholeheartedly support. I am comfortable talking about my period. Are you comfortable enough to read about it? Are you comfortable enough to listen?

At first, I thought a book about the menstrual cycle was strange. Who would want to read a book that only talks about periods? It turns out that answer is pretty easy. Me. I would. This book is certainly an empowering story that smashes through the barrier that is period shame. It highlights the harsh reality of menstrual shame. Like in period poverty where period-havers are using socks and wrapped up fabric as menstrual pads, rather than asking for help because they're choosing food over their other needs. Jewish girls are being taught that they are unclean and their periods are a way of punishment so they cannot lie with their future partner during this phase. Tampon Tax in the UK is a talking point several years after the first protest broke out, which has, thankfully, now led to its abolishment in early 2021. Scotland is the first country in the world to make menstrual products free, and you bet I now wish I lived in Scotland!

We should be able to discuss a phenomenon that happens to half (if not more) of the population. There are thousands of women, girls, transgender youth. and adults aged, that go through their cycle month after month. Periods should no longer be shameful. We are no longer outlawing women to the countryside for up to seven days - although this can still occur in some areas despite the banning of it. We are no longer afraid of period sex or bloodied bedsheets or tearing open that tampon wrapper in a public restroom.

Those who experience periods are ready to fight. We can work, run, jump, and do everything a none bleeding person can do - even with cramps and the occasional hunger for pringles. So let's talk about it because, as Emma Barnett proudly shouts, it's about a bloody time period.

Donate to ActionAid to help end Period Poverty

Donate to Endometriosis UK to fund research