Periods: every woman has them, so why is it that no one likes talking about them?

When I was 11 I got my first period. Being that it was taboo to talk about anything sexual I was clueless with what was going on to me. I remember denying that I had had my first period because I was ashamed. All the hush-hush around the house made me feel like I was dirty for having my period.

I don't want for future generations to feel dirty and ashamed like I did, so maybe we should educate our youth and talk about it. How soon should we talk about it? I believe periods should be discussed very early on; some girls have had their periods as early as 8 or 9.

This is just as important to talk about as the sex talk is. I also believe that the only way our future generation won’t feel ashamed is if we all accept it ourselves.

I remember getting in a conversation with my old co-worker on how every woman should do all they can in order to not let anyone know they are menstruating including their husband. At the time I was 16 and it seemed normal considering the household I grew up in, but now I think it’s ridiculous and a huge hassle. Sure you don't have to parade everywhere when you are menstruating but should you really hide it from your husband? Is he simply supposed to believe you never menstruate?

Maybe it's the man’s fault as well. Many guys will not touch a girl sexually while on her period. Is it really that wrong? Why is it that most men think anal sex is hot but bloody sex is not? It’s not contagious and its surely not going to bite. Men need to grow up and not make rude comments. If you want my vagina you need to love it with blood and all. Saying "gross" or making fun of it does not help a woman’s self-esteem and confidence, so men please tone it down.

Maybe we should embrace menstruating sex. You can always have sex in the shower where it's easy to clean up. Maybe even put a towel underneath you when on the bed to not make a big mess. Just remember touching it whether with your fingers or your penis will not kill you. It's not like I'm asking you to taste it, but if you do all the more power to you.

Whether you embrace bloody sex or not is completely up to you, but we should all acknowledge and accept periods. They're something women can't control and they are completely natural. It’s a normal function and to me is a symbol that I am a woman. Being ashamed to me would be like being ashamed of having boobs, large hips, or even my vagina. I would love if our future generation be comfortable in their body. Maybe you can look back one day and think it was silly for you to be so grossed out by something that happens to every woman.