Just to add a few more comments

1: Shaving can it be done? Should it? What's the easiest way if there is an easy way?
Obviously can be done but I think it will end up being pretty low on your priorities - I ended up just waxing every few weeks.

2: Going it alone, is there many creeps out there to be worried about?
I had one problem in 10 months, like others say just be sensible.

3: Should I carry a knife? Spray?
I had a knife anyway for cooking, sometimes took it in my tent with me if I was feeling scared but realistically it was just a psychological boost! I also had (dog) pepper spray which I had to use on dogs once although it got taken off me at the border when I crossed into Canada.

4: What's the worst type of area to watch out for?

5: What to do in bike short with that time of the month?
You might want to consider using something like the mooncup. I find this a lot better than tampons and if you're stuck you can just rinse it with a bit of water.

6: Anything else I have forgotten goes here.
Have a good trip!