comment: I think the main thing holding me back, and perhaps other women, from explaining the source of menstrual-based pain and irritability is not being believed by others. I think a lot of people simply see it as blood coming from the vagina and that's it, but it's an entire hormonal process that can be very extreme. My depression during my period takes me to very dark places. I've known women who have fainted from the pain. It's very real, but a lot of times growing up I've gotten the sense from friends and teachers that having a period isn't a "real" enough excuse to be miserable, so I figured, what's the point of even bringing it up. At least now I've got a caring bf who's understanding, but I still keep a lot of it to myself because I don't want to seem complaining. I guess it's all in upbringing!