video about the "creepy, cootie-laden mystery" of periods. She also attacks companies that produce so-called 'feminine hygiene' products for perpetuating these negative associations and for the high costs of such products. Muscio advocates creating a positive image of menstruation by throwing menarche parties, using moon calendars to familiarize oneself with biological rhythms, and reading Pippi Longstocking, a "superlative role model in the fine science of accepting ourselves." The book also suggests alternatives to pads and tampons, such as sea sponges, and menstrual cups. Next comes the topic of birth control. Muscio tells the stories of the three abortions she has had during her lifetime: two clinical abortions and one self-induced abortion. The clinical abortions are described as painful, impersonal experiences that are designed by men for women. Self-induced abortion, by means of abortive herbs, abdominal massages, and so forth, is advocated as being highly preferable to clinical abortions. Muscio also discusses how women's birth control methods can be upsetting and even physically harmful, and instead recommends condoms as a primary form of birth control. Muscio then delves into the history of prostitution, citing the works of activist Carol Queen about the treatment of such women in ancient times, when prostitutes were sacred to some religions. Muscio states the need for women to reclaim 'Whoredom' and work to end the stigma surrounding it. The Cuntlovin' Guide to the Universe in the back of the book is an index for information on all topics covered in the book. Themes The Capital Times observed that the book addresses themes of gender empowerment and self-esteem among women. Reception Cunt: A Declaration of Independence was placed at number six on a list of "Best-Selling Lesbian Books" in May 2000 by Curve magazine. The magazine gave the work a positive review and recommended it to their readers. Writing for Curve, Rachel Pepper commented: "Far from a farce, this book takes a look-both serious and playful-at our most private female body parts." She wrote that the book was instructional on the commonalities between women. off our backs reviewed the book and columnist Michelle Lee wrote: "This book has meant so much to me and has really helped shape who I am as a person and a woman." Lee placed the book within its context as an important work personally and generally to women: "To me, this book is near-sacred, a veritable Bible of independent womanhood for myself