Womens Bodies Ebook Supplement

Women’s Bodies,
Women’s Wisdom
Creating Physical and Emotional
Health and Healing
Revised and updated
r
eBook Supplemental Material
Christiane Northrup, M.D.

WOMEN’S BODIES, WOMEN’S WISDOM
TABLE 1
Characteristics of an Addictive System

Characteristic Definition Examples
blame Believing that someone or “I can’t help the way I am. My
something outside of mother was an alcoholic.” “I
yourself is the cause of married a man who is
whatever is happening to completely incapable of having
you an intimate relationship.”
denial Being out of touch with your “My parents weren’t
feelings, needs, or other alcoholics, they were heavy
information social drinkers.” “There’s a
fine line between drinking too
much and being an alcoholic.”
“I don’t know why I’ve gained
twenty pounds. I never eat a
thing that isn’t healthy.”
confusion Lacking clarity about a “Nobody ever tells me
situation or your emotions anything.” “I never know
what’s going on around here.”
forgetfulness Putting out of your mind, Forgetting appointments, car
ceasing to notice keys, personal belongings,
bodily needs
the scarcity model Believing that there’s a “If I am successful, someone
(zero-sum model) limited amount of everything else has to suffer.” “It is not
that’s desirable: love, money, okay to spend time or money
intimacy, happiness on oneself or to admit it.”
perfectionism Having an extreme need for Relentless pursuit of a perfect
external order to cover body, home, mate, job
internal chaos
the illusion of Fearing your needs and “If I could find the right drug,
control or feelings, and creating an I could get rid of these panic
objectivity illusion that you can attacks.” “Premenstrually I
somehow control yourself; become a different person. I’m
separating yourself from like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
your emotions, and believing I’m not myself.” “The ozone
that it is possible to be level is high today. Please stay
completely objective and inside.” (As though the inside
unemotional air is disconnected from the
rest of the environment!)
2
Characteristic Definition Examples

negativism Seeing life in terms of lack “I always catch whatever is
going around.” “Now that I’m
forty, everything is starting to
fall apart.” “You can’t have
that, it costs too much.”
dependency Believing that someone or “I can’t leave my husband.
something outside of you Who would support me?” “I
will take care of you because can’t live without him.”
you can’t do it for yourself
crisis orientation Using or creating an external “There’s no question that we
crisis as a socially acceptable emergency-room nurses really
way to distract yourself from look forward to the next
your feelings multiple trauma. It gets the
juices flowing.”
defensiveness Being unable to accept “Who are you to tell me that
feedback and make positive PMS is related to my family?
adjustments My childhood was perfect.”
dishonesty Not telling the truth “Do I need a break? No, I’m
fine.” “It wasn’t that bad. I
can handle it.”
dualistic thinking Believing that there are only “Vitamins and herbs are good.
two choices: One is right or Drugs and surgery are bad.”
good, the other is wrong or bad
Sources: Anne Wilson Schaef, When Society Becomes an Addict (San Francisco: Harper & Row,
1987), p. 72; Anne Wilson Schaef and Diane Fassel, The Addictive Organization (San Francisco:
Harper & Row, 1988).
3
TABLE 2
The Body as a Process Versus Medical Worldview

The Body as a Process Medical Worldview
- The female body reflects nature and

earth.
- The female body and its processes are
uncontrollable and unreliable. They
require external control.
- Thoughts and emotions are mediated

via the immune, endocrine, and ner-
- Thoughts and emotions are entirely
separate from the physical body.
vous systems. They are biochemical
events.
- The physical, emotional, spiritual, and

psychological aspects of an individual
- It is possible to separate an individual
into entirely distinct, unrelated com-
are intimately intertwined and cannot partments.
be separated.
- Illness is part of the inner guidance

system.
- Illness is a random event that just hap-
pens. There is very little a woman can
do to prevent illness.
- The body creates health daily. It is in-

herently self-healing.
- The body is always vulnerable to germs,
disease, and decay.
- Life is best lived by embracing it,

while accepting the inevitability of its
- Life is all about avoiding death at all
costs by focusing on all the things that
end. can go wrong.
- Our true selves don’t die. - Death is seen as failure and final.
4
TABLE 3
Sources of Guidance
External Guidance: Inner Guidance
Dominant Cultural View
- The physical world is inferior to spirit. - Spirit informs everything.

- Nature is inferior to God and must be
controlled.
- Nature is a reflection of divine spirit.
- Human beings are superior to the nat-

ural world.
- Human beings are co-creators with
spirit and nature.
- Behavior is based on fear and judg-
ment.
- Behavior is based on respect for self.
Respect for self results in respect for
others.
- Difference is suspect and must be con-
trolled.
- Difference is celebrated as a reflection
of the creativity of spirit.
- There’s only one right way to live and
to be.
- There are many paths to fulfillment
and joy. None is superior.
- Delay gratification; enjoyment and ful-

fillment must be earned.
- Live in the moment and enjoy the pro-
cess of creating.
- The inherent worth of individuals is
arranged in a hierarchy of superior to
- Life is an interdependent, cooperative
adventure with all beings connected
inferior. holographically.
- Guidance for behavior is dictated from
external sources—by laws and institu-
- Guidance for behavior comes from con-
nection with inner guidance.
tions.
- There is such a thing as purely objec-
tive reality separate from conscious-
- The whole universe is a projection of
consciousness.
ness.
- Action and pushing against what we
don’t want is the only way to accom-
- Consciousness creates all that is.
Thoughts and feelings create reality.
plish anything. We can use them deliberately to im-
prove our lives.
- Support and nourishment must be
earned from people and institutions
- The individual is self-nourishing
through her connection with her
outside oneself. inner being and guidance system.
5
External Guidance: Inner Guidance

Dominant Cultural View
- Approval from others is the basis for

happiness.
-
Self-approval and self-acceptance are
the keys to happiness.
- God judges our worth. -
The universe is continually unfolding.
God is within every one of us and
speaks through inner guidance.
- It is possible to control everything
and everyone.
-
Humans are not capable of under-
standing everything from a strictly
physical viewpoint. Mystery is part of
the wonder of life.
6
FIGURE 1: EARTH’S ENERGY GOING UPWARD

Female energy = centripetal or “drawing-in” force. Earth’s energy com-
ing upward through the feet, then spiraling around the uterus, breasts,
and tonsils.
Source: Adapted from Michio Kushi
7
FIGURE 2: CHAKRA DIAGRAM WITH FEMALE FIGURE
8
TABLE 4
Energy Anatomy: Mental and Emotional Patterns,

the Chakras, and the Physical Body
Chakra Organs Mental, Emotional Issues Physical Dysfunctions

7 Can involve any Clear sense of life’s purpose Developmental disorders
organ system vs. trusting that life has a (cerebral palsy)
purpose that may not be Genetic disorders
clear Multiple sclerosis
Connection to God or Amyotrophic lateral
universal source of energy sclerosis (ALS)
Understanding the paradox Multiple-system
that an individual can abnormalities
influence her life’s events Any life-threatening illness
and also trust that things or accident that serves
happen as they should and as a wake-up call
that some things are out of
one’s control
6 Brain Perception: clarity vs. Brain tumors/
Eyes ambiguity (ability to live hemorrhages/stroke
Ears with paradox) Neurological disturbances
Nose Thought: left brain vs. right Blindness/deafness
Pineal gland brain—rational vs. Ménière’s disease
nonrational, linear vs. Dizziness
holographic, rigid vs. Tinnitus (ringing in ears)
flexible Parkinson’s disease
Morality: conservative vs. Learning disabilities
liberal, following the rules Seizures
vs. understanding that rules
have exceptions
Repression vs. lack of
inhibition
5 Thyroid Communication: expression Bronchitis/hoarseness
Trachea vs. comprehension Chronic sore throats
Neck vertebrae (speaking vs. listening) Mouth ulcers
Throat Timing: pushing forward vs. Gum difficulties
Mouth waiting; constant time Temporomandibular joint
Teeth and gums pressure vs. having enough problems (TMJ)
time Cervical disc disease
Will: willful vs. compliant Chronic neck pain
Laryngitis
Swollen glands in neck
Thyroid problems
9

4 Heart/lungs Passion and compassion Coronary artery disease
Blood vessels Emotional expression, Myocardial infarction
Shoulders including capacity to feel (heart attack)
Ribs/breasts fully, express, and resolve Hypertension
Diaphragm anger, hostility, joy, love, Cardiac arrhythmias
Upper esophagus grief, forgiveness Chest pain
Capacity to form mutual, Mitral valve prolapse
reciprocal partnerships Cardiomegaly
with balance of giving, Congestive heart failure
receiving, nurturing of self Asthma/allergy
vs. nurturing of others, Lung cancer
intimacy with others vs. Pneumonia
capacity to be alone Upper back, shoulder
(intimacy with self) problems
Breast problems, including
cancer
3 Abdomen Self-esteem, self-confidence, Gastric or duodenal ulcers
Upper intestines or self-respect Colon/intestinal problems
Liver, gall Adequacy vs. inferiority Ulcerative colitis, irritable
bladder relating to competence and bowel syndrome
Lower esophagus skills in the outer world Heartburn/gastritis
Stomach Substance abuse Pancreatitis/diabetes
Kidney, pancreas Responsibility vs. Constipation and diarrhea
Adrenal gland irresponsibility Indigestion, chronic or
Spleen Aggression vs. defensiveness acute
Middle spine Competitiveness vs. Anorexia and bulimia
noncompetitiveness; Liver dysfunction
winning vs. losing Hepatitis
Territoriality/too many Adrenal dysfunction
boundaries
Fear of assuming
responsibility or making
decisions for self
Feeling overly responsible vs.
abdicating responsibility to
self and others
10

2 Uterus, ovaries Balanced drives in the outer Ob-gyn problems
Vulva, vagina, world toward sex, money, Pelvic/lower back pain
cervix power, and relationships Creativity
Large intestine Capacity to co-create with Sexual potency
Lower vertebrae others Urinary problems
Pelvis Fertility and generativity Appendicitis
Appendix Relationship dynamics:
Bladder dependency vs.
independence, giving and
taking, defined boundaries
vs. poor boundaries,
assertiveness vs. passivity
1 Physical body Safety/security in the world; Chronic spinal problems
support knowing when to trust or Back pain
Hip joints mistrust Sciatica
Spine Sense of belonging Scoliosis
Blood Knowing when to feel fear Rectal tumors/cancer
Immune system and when not to Chronic fatigue
Balance between Fibromyalgia
independence and Autoimmune diseases
dependence Arthritis
Skin problems
Sources: C. Dale, The Subtle Body: An Encyclopedia of Your Energetic Anatomy (Boulder, CO:
Sounds True, 2009), and C. N. Shealy and C. M. Myss, The Creation of Health: Merging Tradi-
tional Medicine with Intuitive Diagnosis (Walpole, NH: Stillpoint Publications, 1988). Scientific
documentation of the human energy system and updated information from Mona Lisa Schulz,
M.D., Ph.D., Awakening Intuition: Using Your Mind-Body Network for Insight and Healing
(New York: Harmony Books, 1998).
11
TABLE 5
The Anatomy of Women’s Wisdom

Body Organ or Energy Physical
Process Encoded Wisdom Dysfunction Manifestation
menstrual cycle Cyclic intuitive Refusal to embrace Lack of periods
wisdom and both difficult and Heavy periods
emotional pleasant emotions: Irregular periods
recycling and the dark and the light Painful periods
processing Not allowing shadow PMS
side to be seen and
worked through
Belief that menstrual
cycle is bad or
shameful
uterus Creative center in Bondage to the Fibroids
relationship to emotions of others Adenomyosis
self Unable to birth most
creative self
Shunting one’s creative
energy into a dead-
end job or relationship
ovaries Creative drives in Addiction to external Ovulation
outer world authority or approval abnormalities
Assertiveness in Disbelief in creative Ovarian cysts
outer world ability Ovarian cancer
Excessive, Inability to create Endometriosis
insufficient, or financial support on
imbalanced drive one’s own
toward financial, Being awash in the
creative, or anger or criticism of
relationship goals another without
being able to escape
Sexual or emotional
abuse
12

breasts Balancing giving Inability to name, feel, Breast cysts, pain
with express, and resolve Breast cancer
wholehearted resentment, anger, Lung problems
receiving sadness, or loneliness Shoulder problems
Feeling unlovable and
undeserving of love
Difficulty asking for
and receiving love
and support
Inability to participate
in balanced
partnerships
Imbalance between
intimacy with self
(time alone) and with
others
pregnancy Capacity to Insufficient energy to Infertility
conceive an idea create and maintain Miscarriage
or a life with new life Dysfunctional
another, hold it, Inability to trust the labor
nurture it, and process of giving
allow it to be birth
born and live Ambivalence about
independently effect of pregnancy
and childcare on
work life, body
image, and personal
needs
Hanging on to grief
and loss
Intergenerational fear
of dying in childbirth
or losing a baby
13

cervix/vagina, Discretion about Poorly defined Herpes
vulva intimacy boundaries in Warts
Ability to create relationships Chronic vulvar
healthy Sexual or other pain
boundaries relationships (vulvodynia)
(e.g., work) that Vaginal infections:
detract from well- yeast or
being dysbiosis
Guilt or shame about Abnormal Pap
sexual pleasure or tests
sexuality Cervical cancer
Unresolved trauma
from rape (either
physical or
psychological)
urinary tract, Capacity to feel Being chronically Chronic urinary
bladder emotions “pissed off” at life in tract infection
(especially anger) general Interstitial cystitis
fully, heed their Stagnated flow of
message, and emotions in
then discharge relationships
them completely Dependency in
relationships
Inability to release
outmoded thoughts
Inability to “go with
the flow”
menopause Passage into the Unfinished business Incapacitating hot
wisdom years from past that is flashes
Capacity to be open unaddressed Melancholia
to constant Fear of growing older Depression
intuitive knowing Fear of owning one’s Palpitations
Reseeding the power Anxiety
community Living from the Forgetfulness
dictates of societal Heart disease
expectations instead Loss of libido
of one’s soul
14
FIGURE 3: MENSTRUAL CYCLE (DAYS)
15
Menstruation Ovulation
FIGURE 4: LUNAR CHART FOR MENSTRUAL CYCLE
16
FIGURE 5: THE FEMALE MIND-BODY CONTINUUM:

INTERACTIONS BETWEEN THE BRAIN AND THE PELVIS
17
FIGURE 6: ADHESIONS IN PELVIC ORGANS

Adhesions are filmy areas of connective tissue resulting from surgery,
trauma, or infection that can cause pain and infertility.
18
FIGURE 7: ACUPRESSURE POINTS FOR GYNECOLOGICAL PROBLEMS

These are some of the major acupressure points that you can massage to
prevent or relieve menstrual cramps. They will often be tender to the
touch at first.
19
FIGURE 8: SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER (SAD) AND PMS

PMS is to the monthly cycle as SAD is to the annual cycle. Both condi-
tions respond to the same treatment while asking us to deepen our con-
nection to our cyclic wisdom. We must also become comfortable with
darkness, rest, and being versus doing.
20
FIGURE 9: UTERUS, OVARIES, AND CERVIX WITH ANATOMIC LABELS
21
FIGURE 10: ENDOMETRIOSIS

Endometriosis, which can grow virtually anywhere in the body, is usu-
ally limited to the pelvis lining, the uterine surface, and the ovaries,
where it shows up as endometriomas (also called chocolate cysts).
22
FIGURE 11: TYPES OF FIBROIDS
23
FIGURE 12: THE CLITORAL SYSTEM

The clitoral system is a rich network of erectile, erogenous tissue in the
pelvis that is as extensive as that found in the male penis. The clitoris is
the only part that is easily visible from the outside.
24
FIGURE 13: THE PINEAL GLAND AND THE G-SPOT/SACRED SPOT
25
HIPS OVER HEELS
Stand sideways to a mirror and imagine a line going straight

from the center of your hip to the floor (better yet, use a plumb line).
Does it drop over the front of your foot? This means you’re wearing
your pelvis forward.
Shift your hips back until that line stacks over your ankles. You
can do this move hundreds of times each day. Whenever you’re just
standing around, move your weight back over your heels.
You’ll soon find that wearing heeled footwear of any kind makes
it virtually impossible for you to get your lower body lined up in this
way. (Note that even most athletic shoes have raised heels.) This is
one of the reasons I suggest slowly transitioning to wearing minimal-
ist footwear that doesn’t have a heel at all—your footwear can di-
rectly limit the movements of your knees, hips, low back, and pelvis.
26
DOUBLE CALF STRETCH
Pelvic issues are prevalent in our culture, and so is sitting. One

way to strengthen your pelvis is to simply get up out of your chair
more often. Once you’re up, try this next exercise using your chair—it
targets muscle tension you might have in your calves and hamstrings
that can be pulling on your pelvis.
- Stand facing the seat of a chair with your feet pointing forward
and your legs straight. Then bend forward from your hips (with-
out bending your knees) until your palms rest on the chair. If you
can’t reach the chair without bending your knees or rounding
your back, add a pillow or stack of books to the seat, or move to
a counter or desktop.
- Once your arms are supported, relax your spine toward the floor,
lifting your tailbone toward the ceiling. Don’t force your ribs to
the floor or arch your back—just relax the spine toward the
ground as much as you can.
The more you lift your tailbone, the more you’ll feel the tension
down the back of your legs. Hold this stretch up to a minute.
27
LEGS ON THE WALL
Tight inner thigh muscles can limit the motion and strength of
the pelvic muscles (or perhaps vice versa). This exercise will help you
introduce new movement into this area of your body.
- Lying on your back, place your straight legs up against a wall and
then back yourself away just enough to allow your pelvis to relax
into a level position. There should be a little space under your
waistband—if not, scoot back until that happens.
- Keeping your legs straight, relax them away from each other until
you feel a stretch in your inner thigh.
This move can be difficult, so come out of it as necessary (bring-
ing your knees into your chest or to the side) and then return to it
when you feel ready.
28
RECLINED SOLE-TO-SOLE SIT
- Lie on your back on a pillow, with your knees bent, feet flat on
the floor. Slowly drop your knees away from each other, placing
the soles of your feet together.
- Place pillows under each knee to support yourself in this position
as necessary. (You might need more pillows under one knee than
under the other.) Lower the support bolsters as the position be-
comes more comfortable.
- Relax for at least one minute. (I’ll often do my evening or morn-
ing reading in this position.) Once you’ve done this for a while,
you can vary the move by sliding your feet farther away from or
closer to your bottom (making sure the soles of your feet are still
touching).
29
BUTT BUILDER
Many women are surprised to learn their butt strength matters

to their pelvic health, but I’ve found over and over again that the
function of the pelvic floor is improved by strengthening the glutes—
which makes sense because they’re connected to each other via the
sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of your vertebral column).
Be sure to do this exercise a few times a day.
- Stand barefoot in front of a wall and place your hands on it.

- With your hands still touching the wall, walk back and lift your
left leg so all your weight is on your right leg.
- Keeping the right leg straight (make sure you’re not bending your
knee), shift your weight back into your heel. Use your hands on
the wall to help find the position.
- Lower the left (floating) side of your pelvis toward the floor. This
will engage the glutes on your standing leg, especially if your
weight is back over your heels and the knee is straight. Again, use
the wall to help you find this position. Over time, the muscles of
your pelvis, hips, and legs will become stronger, and you’ll be
able to make this move more challenging by using your arms less.
For more pelvic floor moves, see Katy Bowman’s DVD, Nutri-
tious Movement for a Healthy Pelvis, and her in-depth video course,
30
FIGURE 14: THE MICROCOSMIC ORBIT
31
FIGURE 15: VAGINAL REFLEXOLOGY ZONES
32
FIGURE 16: BREAST ANATOMY
33
FIGURE 17: BREAST SELF-EXAM
34
FIGURE 18: FERTILITY AWARENESS:

OVULATION AND BASAL BODY TEMPERATURE
35
FIGURE 18: FERTILITY AWARENESS:

OVULATION AND BASAL BODY TEMPERATURE
36
TABLE 6
Comparing Contraceptve Methods

Effectiveness figures assume perfect use every time; effectiveness rates of ac-
tual use may vary significantly from those shown. Additional information com-
paring methods of birth control is available on the website for the Office on
Women’s Health at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (www
.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/birth-control-methods).
Method Effectiveness Requirements Advantages Disadvantages
FERTILITY 76%–93%* Conscious Maintains Requires
AWARENESS understanding natural cooperation and
of fertility hormonal/ high awareness
cycle fertility cycle Medication that
Continual Apps make the affects cervical
conscious entire process mucus, body
commitment far easier temperature, or
Willingness to than it’s been menstrual
use barrier in the past regularity may
methods of compromise
birth control effectiveness
or abstinence
during fertile
periods
DIAPHRAGM, 94% Fitting by May protect Unacceptable to
WITH healthcare against pelvic some people
CONTRACEPTIVE professional infection and May cause genital
CREAM OR GEL Faithful use at cervical irritation
each abnormalities Failure rate is
intercourse Maintains higher if
normal intercourse
hormonal/ frequency is
fertility cycle greater than 3×/
Can be inserted week
hours before Must be resized
sex after pregnancy,
It holds blood some
in nicely miscarriages,
during abortions, or
menstruation, weight change of
making sex 20 percent
less messy May cause
frequent urinary
tract infections in
some women
*Figure is from research studies, not Planned Parenthood.
37

CONDOM 98% Conscientious Protects against Requires male
use for STDs partner to be
maximal Decreases risk cooperative
effectiveness of cervical Unacceptable to
dysplasia some people
Does not Some people are
require a allergic to latex
prescription condoms (other
Can help kinds are
premature available)
ejaculation Erection must be
maintained
Loss of sensation
FEMALE 95% Conscientious Protects against One-time use only
CONDOM use for STDs Unacceptable to
maximal Protects labia some people
effectiveness and base of May be noisy
Faithful use penis during May be difficult to
required at intercourse insert
each Can be inserted May cause genital
intercourse up to eight irritation
Requires a hours before May slip into
prescription intercourse vagina during
from a Decreases risk sex
healthcare of cervical
professional dysplasia
Can be used
without
partner
participation
Stronger than
latex and less
likely to
break
External ring
on condom
may
stimulate
clitoris
38

BIRTH 99% Prescription Decreases risk Blocks natural
CONTROL PILL from a of ovarian hormonal/
healthcare and uterine fertility cycle
professional cancer May lower sex
Taking a daily Decrease in drive
pill monthly May increase risk
bleeding and of cervical
reduces adenocarcinoma
chance for Increases incidence
iron of depression
deficiency and some
Decrease in autoimmune
menstrual conditions
cramps and Increases risk of
PMS chlamydia
Decreases risk infection
for benign Increases risk of
breast thrombophlebitis,
tumors pulmonary
Acne emboli, stroke—
improvement especially in
Requires no smokers
planning Nausea and
vomiting
Headaches
Certain
medications
compromise
effectiveness
May cause
spotting, breast
tenderness,
moodiness,
headache,
nausea, and
weight gain
39

IUD 99% Insertion by Requires no May increase risk
Copper (ParaGard) healthcare planning of pelvic
Hormonal professional infection
(Mirena, Kyleena, following
Liletta, Skyla) insertion or in
women exposed
to STDs
May cause spotting
Periods may be
longer and
heavier
May cause
cramping after
insertion
May cause PMS-
like symptoms
SPERMICIDAL 82% Conscientious Free from Unacceptable to
FOAM, CREAM, use for systemic some people
JELLY, FILM, OR maximal effects May cause genital
SUPPOSITORIES effectiveness No advance irritation that
planning can increase your
required chance of getting
Available an STD or HIV
with no Must reinsert with
prescription each act of
intercourse
May be messy
IMPLANT 99% Insertion by Can be used by For most women,
Nexplanon healthcare women who periods become
professional can’t take fewer and
estrogen lighter, and after
Fertility returns one year, 1 out
quickly when of 3 women
removed stops having
Can be used periods
while breast- completely
feeding
No advance
planning
required
40

IMPLANT Provides May cause
Nexplanon continuous irregular
(cont.) protection bleeding
for up to five (especially in first
years after 6–12 months),
insertion including longer
and heavier
periods or
spotting and
breakthrough
bleeding
SPONGE 80%–91% Conscientious No prescription Use during vaginal
Today Sponge use for necessary bleeding,
maximal Can be inserted including
effectiveness hours before menstruation,
sex may decrease
Can be worn effectiveness
for 30 hours Slight increase for
after toxic shock
insertion, syndrome
and Spermicide used
intercourse with it may cause
can be genital irritation
repeated that can increase
without your chance of
additional getting an STD
preparation or HIV
during the
first 24 hours
CERVICAL CAP 71%–86% Prescription Requires no Current caps come
FemCap (Note: from planning in only three
Figure is healthcare Provides sizes—therefore
for professional continuous accurate fit is not
typical required protection always assured
use; stats Conscientious for up to Some risk of toxic
for use for 48 hours, no shock if cap is
perfect maximal matter how left in longer
use not effectiveness many times than 48 hours
available) intercourse May cause odor
occurs problems with
some women if
left in too long
41

CERVICAL CAP Not as effective in
FemCap women who’ve
(cont.) had children
Not as effective
after a recent
abortion
Can be difficult to
insert
Use during vaginal
bleeding,
including
menstruation,
may render it less
effective
THE RING 99% Conscientious Decreases risk May be less
NuvaRing use for of ovarian effective in
maximal and uterine women weighing
effectiveness cancer more than
Ring is worn Decrease in 198 lbs.
for 21 days, monthly May decrease
then removed bleeding and libido
for seven chance for Increases risk of
days before iron thrombophlebitis,
being deficiency pulmonary
replaced with Decrease in emboli, stroke—
a new ring menstrual especially in
cramps and smokers
PMS Nausea and
Decreases risk vomiting
for benign Headaches
breast Certain
tumors medications
Acne compromise
improvement effectiveness
Requires no
planning
42

THE RING May cause
NuvaRing spotting, breast
(cont.) tenderness,
moodiness,
headache,
nausea, and
weight gain as
well as skin
irritation at site
of application
May cause
increased vaginal
discharge or
vaginal infection
or irritation
THE PATCH 99% Conscientious Decreases risk May be less
Xulane use for of ovarian effective in
maximal and uterine women weighing
effectiveness cancer more than 198
Patch is worn Decrease in lbs.
for 21 days, monthly May decrease sex
then removed bleeding and drive
for seven chance for Increases risk of
days before iron thrombophlebitis,
being deficiency pulmonary
replaced with Decrease in emboli, stroke—
a new patch menstrual especially in
cramps and smokers
PMS Nausea and
Decreases risk vomiting
for benign Headaches
breast Certain
tumors medications
Acne compromise
improvement effectiveness
Requires no
planning
43

THE PATCH May cause
Xulane spotting, breast
(cont.) tenderness,
irritability,
headache,
nausea, and
weight gain as
well as skin
irritation at site
of application
WITHDRAWAL 96% Conscientious Requires no May decrease
use at each planning sexual pleasure
intercourse The male pre-
Great self- ejaculate (fluid at
control, the end of the
experience, penis after
and trust of erection) may
partner contain sperm
Less effective in
men who
ejaculate
prematurely
INJECTABLE 99% A shot every Requires no Spotting and
PROGESTIN three months planning headaches,
Depo-Provera Can be used by moodiness,
women who irritability, and
can’t take decreased sex
estrogen drive
May help Takes an average
prevent of nine to ten
endometrial months to regain
cancer fertility after
Fewer and stopping
lighter May cause
periods temporary bone
thinning
VASECTOMY Almost Surgery Requires no Difficult to reverse
100% planning
TUBAL Almost Surgery Requires no Irreversible
LIGATION 100% planning
Effectiveness statistics from Planned Parenthood (see www.plannedparenthood.org) except

where noted.
44
FIGURE 19: THE CAUSES OF INFERTILITY
45
Vitamins Daily Dose Notes

Beta-carotene 15,000 to 25,000 IU
Biotin 100 to 500 mcg
Choline 45 to 100 mg
Folic acid 800 to 1,000 mcg
Glutathione 2 to 10 mg
Inositol 30 to 500 mg
Niacin (vitamin B3) 20 to 100 mg
Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) 30 to 400 mcg
Pyridoxine (vitamin B6) 10 to 100 mg
Riboflavin (vitamin B2) 9 to 50 mg
Thiamine (vitamin B1) 9 to 100 mg
Vitamin B12 30 to 250 mcg
Vitamin C 500 to 2,000 mg
Vitamin D 2,000 to 5,000 IU Aim for optimal blood levels
before conception because
mothers deficient in
vitamin D are almost four
times as likely to have a
13
cesarean delivery; see
chapter 17
Vitamin E 400 to 600 IU
Vitamin K 90 mg
Minerals Daily Dose Notes

Boron 1 to 3 mg
Calcium 500 to 1,500 mg
Chromium 100 to 400 mcg
Copper 1 to 2 mg
Iodine 6 to 12.5 mg If thyroid is normal
Iron 30 mg
Magnesium 400 to 1,000 mg
Manganese 1 to 15 mg
Molybdenum 20 to 60 mcg
Potassium 2,000 to 4,700 mg
46
Minerals Daily Dose Notes

Selenium 80 to 120 mcg
Trace minerals From a marine mineral
complex or from eating
sea vegetables such as
hiziki, dulse, wakame, or
nori
Vanadium 50 to 100 mcg
Zinc 12 to 50 mg
47
FIGURE 20:
ACUPUNCTURE OR ACUPRESSURE POINTS TO TURN A BREECH
A number of different techniques can be used to stimulate these points,
including acupuncture needles or a heat treatment known as moxibus-
tion. If you don’t have access to an acupuncturist who is familiar with
these techniques, you can try acupressure if your physician approves.
Press the point on either toe with your fingernail. Use enough pressure
so that the area feels sensitive, but not enough to cause pain. Hold the
pressure for one to two minutes once or twice a day. Immediately after-
ward, get into the knee-chest position for about fifteen minutes. (This
position will also help turn the baby.) You can use this technique start-
ing in the seventh month of pregnancy. (Earlier in the pregnancy, the
fetus is likely to turn on its own.) Do not attempt this if you have any
uterine or pelvic abnormality, a history of habitual miscarriage, or if
there have been other problems in the pregnancy. Be sure to consult
your doctor before beginning. As an alternative to stimulation of the
point with your nail, you can also buy small moxibustion cylinders on-
line. You simply peel off the adhesive backing, stick them to the spot
you want stimulated, and light them. Remove them once the heat be-
comes uncomfortable.
48
TABLE 7
Potential Risk Factors in Childbirth

High-Risk Childbirth Low-Risk Childbirth
Passivity Activity
Dependence Independence
Reliance on others Self-reliance
Inability to accept support Ability to accept support from
from others others
Rejection of womanhood Acceptance of womanhood
Repressed sexuality Healthy sexuality
Self-view as sexual object Self-view as sexual being
Childlike Adultlike
Limiting beliefs about birth Facilitative beliefs about birth
Nonconducive prior acculturation Conducive prior acculturation
Dishonest, manipulative Clear and honest
communication communication
Spiritual beliefs that interfere Spiritual beliefs conducive to
with birth birth
Self-image of weakness Self-image of strength
Split of mind and body Integration of mind and body
Conflictual relationships Loving relationships
Departures from birth plan Adherence to birth plan
Fear not being worked through Fear being worked through
Sedentary Physically active
Frail body appearance Robust body appearance
Rigid in resisting change and Yielding in accommodating to
new ideas change
Chaotic home Comfortable home
Does not want child Wants child
External control of own life Internal control of own life
Denial of the reality of birth pain Acceptance of the reality of birth pain
49
FIGURE 21: CURRENTS OF WISDOM

FSH and LH stimulate ovulation and are realized cyclically each month
up until the years surrounding menopause. They then undergo a change
during which ovulations gradually cease and FSH and LH levels gradu-
ally increase.
50
FIGURE 22: HORMONE-PRODUCING BODY SITES

Ovarian estrogen and progesterone levels decrease after menopause.
Other body sites, however, are capable of making these same hormones,
depending upon a woman’s lifestyle and diet. The female body, there-
fore, has the capacity to make healthy adjustments in hormonal balance
after menopause.
51
TABLE 8
The Effects of Hormone Therapy on Breast Cancer Risk

Your Probability of Breast Cancer
Current Diagnosis This Year
Age
With 5 Years HT Without HT
50–54 1 in 320 1 in 450
55–59 1 in 275 1 in 386
60–64 1 in 209 1 in 292
65–69 1 in 144 1 in 244
Source: Cancer Statistics Review 1973–1989, excerpted from the August

1995 issue of the Harvard Women’s Health Watch, ©1995, President and
Fellows of Harvard College.
52
Family History
For each family member, note age (if still living), any important
conditions—such as alcoholism, high blood pressure, cancer, diabetes,
heart disease, osteoporosis, mental illness, personality disorder (nar-
cissism, borderline personality disorder, psychopathy, sociopathy, an-
tisocial behavior), addictions, other illnesses—and cause of death and
age at death (if applicable). Include any additional details that feel
relevant.
Mother: ___________________________________________________________
Father: ____________________________________________________________
Sister(s): ___________________________________________________________
Brother(s): _________________________________________________________
Maternal grandmother: ______________________________________________
Paternal grandmother: _______________________________________________
Maternal grandfather: _______________________________________________
Paternal grandfather: ________________________________________________
Maternal aunt(s): ___________________________________________________
Paternal aunt(s): ____________________________________________________
Maternal uncle(s): ___________________________________________________
Paternal uncle(s): ___________________________________________________
53
HEALTH INVENTORY: WHERE I AM NOW

It’s helpful to fill out this form to get an idea of exactly what your
health and life look like now. (By the way, research has shown that
perceiving that your health is good or excellent is, in and of itself, a
very accurate assessment of your state of health—with no further
testing needed. Please keep that in mind.)
Medical Status
General health (circle one): excellent good fair poor
Medications (prescription or otherwise): _______________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
Supplements (vitamins, herbs, minerals): _______________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
Health-enhancing activities:
Exercise Music/artistic endeavors
Meditation (including dancing and
Hobbies singing)
Participatory sports Participation in religious/
Social groups and clubs spiritual practice
Volunteer activities Other things you do for fun
Hospitalizations and Operations

Dates Diagnosis/Operation
Pregnancies (including miscarriages and abortions)

Dates How far along Gender Weight Medical problems in pregnancy
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
Past or Current Medical Conditions (circle those that apply)

Vaccines: When and how many? Heart trouble
Chicken pox High blood pressure
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis A High cholesterol
Meningitis Stroke
Rubella
Varicose veins
Flu
Shingles Phlebitis
Pneumonia Clotting defects
Childhood chronic conditions,
such as asthma and Bleeding tendencies
allergies Blood transfusion
54
Diabetes Fractures
Kidney trouble Cancer
Rheumatic fever Asthma
Jaundice/hepatitis Chronic fatigue/Epstein-Barr
Epilepsy Eating disorder
Arthritis Other
Colitis
Habits
Dietary preferences/restrictions: _______________________________________
Sample of day’s menu:
Breakfast: _____________________________________________________
Lunch: ________________________________________________________
Dinner: ________________________________________________________
Snacks: ________________________________________________________
Tobacco use (how much currently, previous history): ____________________
___________________________________________________________________
Alcohol use (how much, how often): ___________________________________
Caffeine use (how much): ____________________________________________
Mood-altering substance use (i.e., marijuana, cocaine, etc.), past and present:
___________________________________________________________________
Work stresses: ______________________________________________________
Personal stresses: ____________________________________________________
Gynecological History
Age at first period: __________________________________________________
Any abnormal Pap tests: _____________________________________________
If yes, how were they treated? _____________________________________
Are you sexually active? ______________________________________________
Do you have intercourse? ____________________________________________
Do you have regular orgasms? ________________________________________
Do you know your female erotic anatomy? Where your clitoris and G-spot
are? _______________________________________________________________
Do you practice safe sex? ____________________________________________
Are you trying to get pregnant? _______________________________________
Current birth control method (and how long): ___________________________
Any problems with it? ___________________________________________
Past birth control methods: _______________________________________
Normally (when not on hormonal methods of birth control), number of days
from the start of one period to the start of the next: ___________________
Number of days of flow: _____________________________________________
55
Amount of bleeding: _________________________________________________

Amount of cramping: ________________________________________________
Premenstrual symptoms (and when they start): __________________________
Any current changes in your normal pattern? ____________________________
Any bleeding between periods? ________________________________________
Any unusual pelvic pain, pressure, or fullness? ___________________________
Any unusual vaginal discharge or itching? _______________________________
Any sexual concerns? ________________________________________________
Any past history of tubal infection? ____________________________________
Any past history of sexually transmitted disease? ___________________________
Did your mother take DES when she was pregnant with you? ______________
Other: _____________________________________________________________
Present Symptoms
General Physical Bladder
Fever or chills Frequent urination
Hot flashes Painful urination
Unusual hair growth Blood in urine
Skin eruptions Inability to hold urine
Weight change Inability to empty bladder
Abdomen Need to get up at night to
Bloating urinate
Heartburn, indigestion Chest
Cramps or pain Chest pain
Nausea or vomiting Shortness of breath
Change in bowel habits Heart murmur
Bloody or tarry stools Mitral valve prolapse
Diarrhea Palpitations
Constipation Chronic cough
Hemorrhoids Coughing up blood
Flatulence Wheezing
Head Breasts
Headaches Lumps
Dizziness Bleeding
Visual defects Discharge
Hearing defects Tenderness
Sinus trouble Other concerns
Fainting spells
Once you have expressed your desire to make the changes that will
help you flourish, be aware that you and your Higher Power (or
broader perspective) have what it takes to do just that.
56
KB’s Breakfast Smoothie
Blend together:
½ cup frozen organic cherries (or berries)

1 cup fermented coconut water, coconut water, or filtered water
3 tablespoons collagen hydrolysate (as a protein base)
1 tablespoon sprouted nut butter
3 egg yolks (from pastured hens)
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1–2 tablespoons ghee
1–2 tablespoons raw cacao powder
57
FIGURE 23: BODY MASS INDEX CHART

Body Mass Index Chart
Height (Feet and Inches)
5'0" 5'1" 5'2" 5'3" 5'4" 5'5" 5'6" 5'7" 5'8" 5'9" 5'10" 5'11"6'0" 6'1" 6'2" 6'3" 6'4"
100 20 19 18 18 17 17 16 16 15 15 14 14 14 13 13 12 12
105 21 20 19 19 18 17 17 16 16 16 15 15 14 14 13 13 13
110 21 21 20 19 19 18 18 17 17 16 16 15 15 15 14 14 13
115 22 22 21 20 20 19 19 18 17 17 17 16 16 15 15 14 14
120 23 23 22 21 21 20 19 19 18 18 17 17 16 16 15 15 15
125 24 24 23 22 21 21 20 20 19 18 18 17 17 16 16 16 15
130 25 25 24 23 22 22 21 20 20 19 19 18 18 17 17 16 16
135 26 26 25 24 23 22 22 21 21 20 19 19 18 18 17 17 16
140 27 26 26 25 24 23 23 22 21 21 20 20 19 18 18 17 17
145 28 27 27 26 25 24 23 23 22 21 21 20 20 19 19 18 18
150 29 28 27 27 26 25 24 23 23 22 22 21 20 20 19 19 18
155 30 29 28 27 27 26 25 24 24 23 22 22 21 20 20 19 19
160 31 30 29 28 27 27 26 25 24 24 23 22 22 21 21 20 19
165 32 31 30 29 28 27 27 26 25 24 24 23 22 22 21 21 20
Weight (Pounds)
170 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 27 26 25 24 24 23 22 22 21 21
175 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 27 26 25 24 24 23 22 22 21
180 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 27 26 25 24 24 23 22 22
185 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 27 26 25 24 24 23 23
190 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 26 25 24 24 23
195 38 37 36 35 33 32 31 31 30 29 28 27 26 26 25 24 24
200 39 38 37 35 34 33 32 31 30 30 29 28 27 26 26 25 24
205 40 39 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 29 28 27 26 26 25
210 41 40 38 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 28 27 26 26
215 42 41 39 38 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 28 27 26
220 43 42 40 39 38 37 36 34 33 32 32 31 30 29 28 27 27
225 44 43 41 40 39 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 31 30 29 28 27
230 45 43 42 41 39 38 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 30 29 28
235 46 44 43 42 40 39 38 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 29
240 47 45 44 43 41 40 39 38 36 35 34 33 33 32 31 30 29
245 48 46 45 43 42 41 40 38 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 31 30
250 49 47 46 44 43 42 40 39 38 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30
Underweight Weight Appropriate Overweight Obese
The Change Before The Change/Random House/fig 18 (replaced/revised 5/16)

58
The Top 12 Hydrating Veggies

Vegetable Percentage of Water by Volume
Cucumber 96.7%
Romaine lettuce 95.6%
Celery 95.4%
Radish 95.3%
Zucchini 95%
Tomatoes 94.5%
Peppers 93.9%
Cauliflower 92.1%
Spinach 91.4%
Broccoli 90.7%
Carrots 90%
Sprouts 86.5%
The Top 12 Hydrating Fruits

Fruit Percentage of Water by Volume
Starfruit 91.4%
Watermelon 91.4%
Strawberries 91%
Grapefruit 90.5%
Cantaloupe 90.2%
Pineapple 87%
Raspberries 87%
Blueberries 85%
Kiwi 84.2%
Apple 84%
Pear 84%
Grapes 81.5%
59
Selected Foods Rich in Magnesium
Food Mg per 100 grams (3½ ounces)

Kelp 760
Wheat bran 490
Wheat germ 336
Molasses 258
Dulse 220
Almonds 270
Peanuts 175
Collard greens 57
Cooked beans 37
Tofu 111
Millet 162
60
TABLE 10
Recommended Daily Supplementation

Vitamins
Vitamin C 1,000–5,000 mg
Vitamin D3 2,000–5,000 IU
Vitamin A (as beta-carotene) 25,000 IU
Vitamin E (as mixed tocopherols) 200–800 IU
Alpha-lipoic acid 10–100 mg
Coenzyme Q10 10–100 mg
Omega-3 Fats
DHA 200–2,500 mg
EPA 500–2,500 mg
B Complex Vitamins (total of 1,000–5,000 mg)
Thiamine (B1) 8–100 mg
Riboflavin (B2) 9–50 mg
Niacin (B3) 20–100 mg
Pantothenic acid (B5) 15–400 mg
Pyridoxine (B6) 10–100 mg
Cobalamin (B12) 20–250 mcg
Folic acid 1,000 mcg
Biotin 40–500 mcg
Inositol 10–500 mg
Choline 425 mg
Minerals (should be bound as amino acid chelates
for optimal absorption)
Calcium 500–1,200 mg
Magnesium 400–1,000 mg
Potassium 200–500 mg
Zinc 6–50 mg
Manganese 1–15 mg
Boron 2–9 mg
Copper 1–2 mg
Iron 15–30 mg
Chromium 100–400 mcg
Iodine 3–12.5 mg*
Selenium 50–200 mcg
Molybdenum 45 mcg
Vanadium 50–100 mcg
Trace minerals from marine sources
* Please refer to iodine discussion in chapter 10.
61

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Women’s Bodies,

Christiane Northrup, M.D.

Characteristics of an Addictive System

Characteristic Definition Examples

The Body as a Process Versus Medical Worldview

- The female body reflects nature and

- Thoughts and emotions are mediated

- The physical, emotional, spiritual, and

- Illness is part of the inner guidance

- The body creates health daily. It is in-

- Life is best lived by embracing it,

- The physical world is inferior to spirit. - Spirit informs everything.

- Human beings are superior to the nat-

- Delay gratification; enjoyment and ful-

External Guidance: Inner Guidance

- Approval from others is the basis for

FIGURE 1: EARTH’S ENERGY GOING UPWARD

Source: Adapted from Michio Kushi

FIGURE 2: CHAKRA DIAGRAM WITH FEMALE FIGURE

Energy Anatomy: Mental and Emotional Patterns,

Chakra Organs Mental, Emotional Issues Physical Dysfunctions

Chakra Organs Mental, Emotional Issues Physical Dysfunctions

Chakra Organs Mental, Emotional Issues Physical Dysfunctions

The Anatomy of Women’s Wisdom

Body Organ or Energy Physical

Body Organ or Energy Physical

FIGURE 3: MENSTRUAL CYCLE (DAYS)

FIGURE 4: LUNAR CHART FOR MENSTRUAL CYCLE

FIGURE 5: THE FEMALE MIND-­BODY CONTINUUM:

FIGURE 6: ADHESIONS IN PELVIC ORGANS

FIGURE 7: ACUPRESSURE POINTS FOR GYNECOLOGICAL PROBLEMS

FIGURE 8: SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER (SAD) AND PMS

FIGURE 9: UTERUS, OVARIES, AND CERVIX WITH ANATOMIC LABELS

FIGURE 10: ENDOMETRIOSIS

FIGURE 11: TYPES OF FIBROIDS

FIGURE 12: THE CLITORAL SYSTEM

FIGURE 13: THE PINEAL GLAND AND THE G-­SPOT/SACRED SPOT

HIPS OVER HEELS

Stand sideways to a mirror and imagine a line going straight

DOUBLE CALF STRETCH

Pelvic issues are prevalent in our culture, and so is sitting. One

LEGS ON THE WALL

RECLINED SOLE-­TO-­SOLE SIT

Many women are surprised to learn their butt strength matters

- Stand barefoot in front of a wall and place your hands on it.

FIGURE 14: THE MICROCOSMIC ORBIT

FIGURE 15: VAGINAL REFLEXOLOGY ZONES

FIGURE 16: BREAST ANATOMY

FIGURE 17: BREAST SELF-­EXAM

FIGURE 18: FERTILITY AWARENESS:

FIGURE 18: FERTILITY AWARENESS:

Comparing Contraceptve Methods

*Figure is from research studies, not Planned Parenthood.

Method Effectiveness Requirements Advantages Disadvantages

Method Effectiveness Requirements Advantages Disadvantages

Method Effectiveness Requirements Advantages Disadvantages

Method Effectiveness Requirements Advantages Disadvantages

Method Effectiveness Requirements Advantages Disadvantages

Method Effectiveness Requirements Advantages Disadvantages

Method Effectiveness Requirements Advantages Disadvantages

Effectiveness statistics from Planned Parenthood (see www​.plannedparenthood​.org) except

FIGURE 19: THE CAUSES OF INFERTILITY

Vitamins Daily Dose Notes

- The female body reflects nature and

- Thoughts and emotions are mediated

- The physical, emotional, spiritual, and

- Illness is part of the inner guidance

- The body creates health daily. It is in-

- Life is best lived by embracing it,

- Human beings are superior to the nat-

- Delay gratification; enjoyment and ful-

- Approval from others is the basis for

FIGURE 5: THE FEMALE MIND-BODY CONTINUUM:

FIGURE 13: THE PINEAL GLAND AND THE G-SPOT/SACRED SPOT

RECLINED SOLE-TO-SOLE SIT

FIGURE 17: BREAST SELF-EXAM

Effectiveness statistics from Planned Parenthood (see www.plannedparenthood.org) except

FIGURE 22: HORMONE-PRODUCING BODY SITES

50–54 1 in 320 1 in 450

55–59 1 in 275 1 in 386

60–64 1 in 209 1 in 292

65–69 1 in 144 1 in 244

Source: Cancer Statistics Review 1973–1989, excerpted from the August