Just because you are menstruating does not mean that sex should take a backseat. Period sex is safe – and it actually offers several advantages, including increased sex drive and relief from menstrual cramps. So, unless you or your partner is uncomfortable with the idea, there is no reason why you should avoid period sex.
While having sex during your menstruation is entirely safe, it can have its own set of challenges. So, if you do not want to forego sexual pleasures during this time of the month, here’s everything you should know about period sex.
Period Sex Statistics and Facts:
Only 15% of women continue their usual sexual activity while on their period. 1
Women appear to ‘smell more attractive’ between the first day of menstruation and ovulation. 2
Is it Safe to Have Sex During Periods?
Perhaps this is the first question that will come to your mind when considering having sex during periods – is it safe?
Period sex is usually safe unless there are certain complications or your doctor has recommended bed rest during this time.
In most cases, it does not cause any health hazards for you or your partner. However, if you experience pain or discomfort, refrain from having sex and see if the problems subside. If not, get in touch with your doctor.
But it is important to practice safe sex during your periods because, despite its health benefits, there are still risks of getting STI (sexually transmitted infections) during this time. So, if you or your partner is positive for HIV, hepatitis, or other STIs, the risk of transmission of disease may increase due to the presence of blood.
Additionally, you may also have the risk of getting pregnant during this time. So, it is essential that you or your partner continue to practice contraceptive measures even when having sex during periods. Otherwise, period sex is safe and does not cause any risks.
Benefits of Sex During Periods
For many, sex during menstruation may seem gross. But it can actually have a wide range of benefits as discussed herewith:
Relief from menstrual cramps
Anecdotal evidence indicates that during sex, you secrete a kind of hormone called endorphin, which can help relieve cramps during periods. Typically, period cramps happen as the uterus contracts to release its lining. So, when you have an orgasm during period sex, the uterus muscles contract and then release. This may provide relief from cramps to some extent.
Increased libido
Due to hormonal changes throughout the menstrual cycle, many women experience increased sex drive before and during their period. As you feel more turned on during your menstruation, you are likely to have greater sexual pleasure free of all inhibitions and fear.
You do not need any lubrication
Are you typically cold during sex and need lubrication? Does using a lubricant gives you greater pleasure and less discomfort when you get intimate? Well, you do not need any kind of lubrication during period sex. The blood acts as a natural lubricant and will help reduce heat and friction, decreasing the risk of injuries during this time.
Shorter menstruation cycle
Another advantage of having sex during your period is it shortens your menstrual cycle. When you have an orgasm during sex, the muscles of the uterus contract and this helps push out the uterine blood and tissues faster. So, you may experience shorter menstrual cycles.
Should You Use Sex Toys During Menstruation? What Types of Toys are Recommended?
Whether you are engaging in intercourse or masturbating during your period, it is absolutely healthy and safe. And therefore, there is no reason why you should not use sex toys during periods.
There are no known risks of using toys and they can actually help improve your pleasure, provided you use them in a way that does not harm your body and you are using body safe toys. But to use toys during periods, it is important that you know and love your body.
Typically, you can use most types of sex toys during menstruation. Make sure you remove your menstrual cup, tampon, or period disc to reduce any risk when using sex toys.
But if you do not want to make it very messy, try clitoral stimulation either with your fingers, or by using clit stimulator sex toys that will give you external pleasure. This way you can continue using your tampon or menstrual cups.
You can also use dildos and vibrators during menstruation, provided you know how to use them safely. Refrain from such acts if you feel pain or discomfort at any point in time.
And if you want to avoid the period blood entirely but not the fun of using sex toys, then you can play with an anal toy such as a butt plug or anal beads.
Can You Get Pregnant when having sex on your period?
While your chances of conceiving during your menstruation are lower, you can still become pregnant if you have sex at this time. Ovulation (and getting pregnant) typically depends on your menstrual cycle. If you have a shorter menstrual cycle, you are at a higher risk of conceiving during your period.
So, if you are not planning to conceive, it is a good idea to use protection.
Tips to Have Safe Sex During Your Period
Sex during periods can be messy. Here are a few tips to ensure you have a comfortable experience getting intimate with your partner:
- Be upfront with your partner about how you feel about having period sex, and also what they think about it. This will make the overall experience more comfortable for both of you
- If you want less mess, it isn’t a bad idea to get intimate in the bath or shower
- Make sure your partner uses contraception, such as a condom, to protect against STIs or pregnancy
- It is ideal to remove your tampon, period disc, or menstrual cup as they can cause discomfort when pushed deep into the vagina
- If you use sex toys like a dildo or a vibrator, you may use a condom to keep it clean from menstrual blood. If not, you will need to wash the toys thoroughly before you can use them again. Refrain from using crystals or stones
Final Words
Do not let menstruation put a halt to your otherwise adventurous sex life. With little preparation and safety in place, sex can be even more enjoyable during your period.
