When I was 17, I walked from a train station to see my boyfriend. I was in a loose summer dress, nothing showy. As I passed a group of men, all well above my father's age, they started whistling at me.

I ignored them.

Then came the teasing words.

"Where's a pretty thing like you going?", "Why don't you come join us?", "Nice legs, a shame to cover them!"

I kept my head down, ignored them, and walked by faster.

The words and tone changed.

"Hey! Don't be a bitch.", "Don't be so stuck up.", "Why dress up if you don't want compliments?".

It is not the words per se; it's the worry about what may happen. If you react, you may encourage them further. If you ignore them, they may get agitated.

I don't know these men. Experience tells me that the majority won't do anything. But personal experience also tells me that something may happen.

The words can be ignored, but the feeling of fear cannot.

And the fact that words are often shouted by men in groups does not make it better.

I am a 5′2 woman. I've taken a few self-defence classes, and my stepdad has taught me where to hit to make it hurt, but let's be honest, there's no way I am taking down a man - let alone a group of them.

That's why catcalling is so uncomfortable.

It may just be meant as a compliment. But maybe it's a threat. I do not know.

If you want to compliment me, walk up, and tell me politely.

And never ever whistle at me. I am not a dog.