It is general knowledge that girls get their periods once a month (if you didn’t know this, you’re either too young or didn’t pay attention in biology). What is not so popularly known is the battle this couple of days represent in every girl’s life. Some of us have it harder than others. For example, I completely envy my roommate because her struggle is a level 4 — on a 1-10 scale — while mine is a level 9.

Girls, I hope this list will help you find consolation and teach you that you are not alone. And boy readers, be thankful you don’t have to deal with these things every month.

1. Perfect timing! (sarcasm is mandatory)

Spring break starts tomorrow? You’ll get your period today. You’re going on a road trip? Period! Are you wearing white jeans? Period! Are you planning on spending the day at the pool with a cute boy? Period!

2. I might as well die

Some of us deal with a lot of pain. Death can’t be much more painful. It's the 21^st century, someone invent a pill to get rid of this ASAP. Where are my engineers? Come up with a pill for those of us who are 100% sure don’t want kids. Help us get rid of the suffering a couple of decades before. (Just an idea though.)

3. Am I really crying because of this?

Cute puppy? You start crying because it’s too cute. The sun is shining? You start crying because it’s too bright. You saw a T.V. commercial? You start crying just because.

4. OMG am I leaking?!

Yes, this might be TMI, but this is in our brain 24/7 during those days. Tampons and pads are not 100% trustworthy. They fail us every once in a while, and we hate it.

5. Why do I have to deal with this but my boyfriend doesn’t?

We know it’s nature, but it’s still unfair.

6. Don’t talk to me. Don’t look at me.

Once again, we might cry. Or just yell at you, we never know.

7. How many days until I’m done with this struggle?

You start counting the days until your cycle is done. I personally do this as soon as I get it. And then again on the second day. And on the third one.

8. Where’s the chocolate? And the ice cream? And the chips?

Food, food, food, food.