Learn with our partner organization: Pearl & Thistle

Imagine your daughter...


  • Feeling confident in approaching her first period, knowing exactly what to expect and why

  • Knowing when things seem off and how to talk to the doctor

  • Seeing her period (and future fertility) not as a burden or something to just be dealt with, but actually as a beautiful part of God's design for her body

  • Having a supportive parent who is prepared, informed, and calm about her approaching menarche


Our unique approach to cycle education features bright visuals, memorable explanations, and (age-appropriate!) science so girls and parents walk away feeling confident in their understanding and preparation.


Experience the nationally-acclaimed cycle education program which helps parents and daughters prepare for the start of her first period with confidence— together!


Includes: 

  • 8 Videos
  • Printable Family Workbook & Discussion Guide
  • Period Kit Checklist
  • Book Recommendations for Parents
  • Parent Guide: Talking to the Pediatrician
  • -AND- a bonus video just for parents!


Best for ages 9-11. 


Meet the instructor

Christina Valenzuela

Christina Valenzuela is the founder and director of Pearl & Thistle, an organization which offers a unique blend of science and theology to bring better body literacy to Catholics. Christina has been an instructor in the Boston Cross Check Method of NFP for over a decade. She holds an undergraduate degree in Philosophy and Theology from the University of Notre Dame as well as a Masters in Theological Studies from Harvard Divinity School. Pearl & Thistle’s signature course, “CYCLE PREP: First Period Course for Girls” was a finalist in the 2021 OSV Innovation Challenge and has been utilized in homes, schools, parishes, health clinics, and dioceses all around the world.

Important Note:

By clicking 'Learn more about this course' or 'Visit Academy Partner' below...

...you are leaving the MyCatholicDoctor Academy site.  MyCatholicDoctor Academy has partnered with Pearl and Thistle to provide you with additional relevant course offerings that reside outside of the MyCatholicDoctor Academy catalogue.  When you click the button below and leave this page, you will no longer be on the Academy site and will be subject to the terms and conditions and privacy policy of pearlandthistle.com.  The Academy may earn a commission from your enrollment with this affiliate. All enrollment questions and concerns should be addressed to the partner entity's customer service.

**This course is not included in the MyCatholicDoctor Academy membership subscription.

A first period course that prepares her AND you...

for the start of menstrual cycles with science, values, and the dignity of women in mind.

Save 10% by entering the code ACADEMY10 at checkout!
Learn more about this course