Alright everybody, buckle up because we're going to talk about periods. Period, time-of-the-month, menstrual cycle, shark week, whatever you call it, periods let us know that we aren't pregnant. It's something natural that happens, and that's that.

First off, I want ladies to know that there's nothing to be ashamed of when it comes to periods. Seriously. This is probably the most natural thing a woman's body does. A period is the body preparing for the future. Those cramps? That's the uterus practicing contractions for when you do become pregnant. The gross bits? Thats the "pillow" your body has built for the baby it's anticipating. Heck, we even get those crazy mood swings and cravings like we're pregnant.

Now to the boys: The shaming needs to stop. Last week, someone (assuming male) posted on yik yak, "Dear girl in the white shorts. You're old enough to know about when this is going to happen." Well, person, I'm here to tell you that it's not always that black-and-white. Some girls are never regular, but that doesn't mean we shouldn't wear white.

Also, guys: support your women. Let's turn to this helpful video:

Luckily, these guys only had to deal with the blood; not the pain. Your girl is in a lot of pain. So buck it up and go to the store. Buy her the tampons she needs, maybe some sugar to surprise your sugar. In other words, get her chocolate. Rub her belly when it cramps, cuddle her, do the laundry. Be a real man.

Next up? Emotion shaming. Everybody (even me) seems to be guilty of this one. You know when that girl is just being beyond-emotional and you spit out a, "What? Is it your time of the month?" Well, that can be kind of offensive. Yes, girls are emotional on their periods (our hormones are going crazy, can you blame us?), but everybody gets emotional sometimes for even no reason at all. What? Are you on your period?

So let's talk about us females sticking together. This is a sisterhood I'm proud to say I belong to. I don't know how many times I've been in a room of ladies and someone comes back from the bathroom with the "shit" look and asks for supplies. Everyone digs in their bags and offers up a million different tampons and pads. We know this time sucks, no need to have to do emergency laundry as well.

Do periods seem like punishment? They are. Your body wants to be pregnant, but, you're not pregnant. The body has to get rid of all that prep and try again. It's angry.

So, let's do a quick recap:

Guys, no shaming of any sort. Please. Periods suck enough without you all looking at our butts as well. Also, don't be afraid to buy tampons and chocolate for your woman.

Girls, be proud of your period. You are woman. You belong to this amazing sisterhood that will always be there when nature calls unexpectedly. But, you shouldn't shame yourself or others either.

Don't be afraid to talk about your period. It's a natural thing.