Using Affirming, Inclusive Language

Replace gendered terms (“women’s health”) with neutral phrases like “cycle care.”

Ask preferred pronouns and cycle‑related terms (e.g., “moon time,” “period”).

See languageUsageGraphic for sample phrases and pronoun reminders.

Infographic of inclusive terms and pronoun reminders for talking about periods.
Infographic of inclusive terms and pronoun reminders for talking about periods.

Understanding Your Body & Hormones

  • Track how testosterone or estrogen therapy may alter cycle length and flow.
  • Use hormoneTrackerGraphic to log both hormone doses and cycle symptoms.
  • Recognize signs of menstrual suppression or breakthrough bleeding.
Chart for tracking hormone therapies alongside menstrual cycle symptoms.
Chart for tracking hormone therapies alongside menstrual cycle symptoms.

Adapting Menstrual Products for Comfort

Binders and packers can press on pads or cups—choose low‑profile, slim designs.

Consider period underwear under binders or loose shorts for discreet protection.

Refer to productAdaptationGraphic for brands and usage tips.

Guide to adapting pads, cups, and underwear for gender‑affirming comfort.
Guide to adapting pads, cups, and underwear for gender‑affirming comfort.

Managing Gender Dysphoria During Periods

  • Practice body‑safe self‑massage or heat pack placements to reclaim comfort.
  • Engage in grounding activities—journaling, art, or affirmations.
  • Explore mentalHealthSupportGraphic for trans‑inclusive self‑care exercises and hotlines.
Toolkit of affirming self‑care practices and trans‑inclusive mental health resources.
Toolkit of affirming self‑care practices and trans‑inclusive mental health resources.

Accessing Gender‑Affirming Medical Care

Seek providers trained in trans health for cycle management and hormone coordination.

Use medicalAccessFlowchart to locate clinics that offer inclusive gynecological and hormone services.

Prepare questions in advance: binding safety, hormone interactions, emergency protocols.

Flowchart for finding gender‑affirming providers and navigating hormone care.
Flowchart for finding gender‑affirming providers and navigating hormone care.

Leveraging Community & Peer Networks

Join LGBTQ+ support groups for product swaps, emotional solidarity, and resource sharing.

Attend online forums or local meetups to exchange tips on dysphoria management and cycle hacks.

Consult communityResourcesMap for vetted groups and virtual spaces.

Map of local and online LGBTQ+ health and support groups specializing in menstrual care.
Map of local and online LGBTQ+ health and support groups specializing in menstrual care.

Safety & Harm Reduction Guidelines

  • Ensure binders fit well—avoid excessive compression that may worsen cramps or restrict breathing.
  • Rotate menstrual product placement and change frequency to maintain hygiene under binders.
  • See safetyGuidelinesGraphic for full checklist of harm reduction practices.
Checklist of safety tips for binders, packers, and menstrual materials during periods.
Checklist of safety tips for binders, packers, and menstrual materials during periods.

Advocating for Accommodations

Request gender‑neutral restrooms and private changing spaces at work or school.

Share workplaceAccessGraphic to inform HR or administrators of legal rights and accommodations.

Use formal letters or policy references to secure period breaks and binder‑friendly dress codes.

Diagram of legal rights and accommodations for trans and nonbinary people at work and school.
Diagram of legal rights and accommodations for trans and nonbinary people at work and school.

Next Steps

  • Download and personalize hormoneTrackerGraphic to begin logging this cycle.
  • Audit your cycle kit—add or replace products using productAdaptationGraphic.
  • Connect with one local or online support group from communityResourcesMap this week.
  • Review and practice safety tips from safetyGuidelinesGraphic and save nextStepsGraphic.
Checklist of actionable next steps to create an affirming, supportive period plan.
Checklist of actionable next steps to create an affirming, supportive period plan.