Unless you find it bothersome, you do not have to avoid having sex during your period. While sex during your period can be a bit messy, it is safe. It could even have some benefits.
What are the possible side effects or risks?
The biggest drawback of having sex during menstruation is the mess that can result. Blood can stain you, your partner, and the sheets—especially if you have a heavy flow.
In addition to soiling the bed, the bleeding may cause you embarrassment. Anxiety over the possibility of creating a mess can diminish some—or all—of the pleasure derived from sexual intercourse.
Another concern regarding sex during menstruation is the risk of spreading sexually transmitted contagions (STIs), such as HIV. HIV is present in the blood and can be transmitted through contact with menstrual blood containing the virus.
Using condoms and other barrier approaches every time you have sex with a partner can reduce the risk of constricting and transmitting HIV and other STIs.
If you plan to have sex during menstruation while wearing a tampon, you must remove it beforehand. A forgotten tampon can become lodged so deeply within the vagina during sex that you may need to see a doctor to have it removed.
You may also need to remove certain menstrual cups.
Can you get pregnant during your period?
If you are not actively trying to conceive, using a barrier method—such as condoms—is a good idea, regardless of the stage of your menstrual cycle you are in.
Your chances of getting pregnant during menstruation are lower, but it is still possible to conceive during this period.
You are most likely to get pregnant during ovulation, which happens approximately two weeks before your period begins. However, cycle length varies from person to person; in fact, the length of your own cycle can change from one month to the next.
If you have a short menstrual cycle, your probabilities of getting pregnant during menstruation are higher. Additionally, keep in mind that sperm can remain alive inside your body for several days.
Therefore, if you have a 22-day cycle—for example—and you ovulate after your period ends, there is a possibility that you could release an egg while sperm are still present in your reproductive tract.
What are the potential benefits?
Having sex during your period offers several benefits:
1. Relief from menstrual cramps
Orgasms can alleviate menstrual cramps. These cramps result from uterine contractions as the uterus sheds its lining.
When you have an orgasm, the muscles of the uterus also contract and subsequently relax. This release should provide some relief from menstrual cramps.
Sex also triggers the issue of chemicals called endorphins, which generate a sense of well-being. Furthermore, sex keeps your mind occupied, which can contribute to alleviating menstrual discomfort.
2. Increased libido
Your libido fluctuates throughout your menstrual cycle due to hormonal changes.
While many people report that their sexual desire increases during ovulation, some report heightened arousal during menstruation.
3. Natural lubrication
You can put away the K-Y while you have your period. Blood acts as a natural lubricant.
4. It may relieve migraine attacks
Many people who suffer from migraines experience attacks during their period.
Although people with menstrual migraines often avoid sexual activity during their attacks, a 2013 study revealed that those who do have sex report that it relieves their attacks—either partially or completely.
Tips on having sex during your period
Here are some tips to make sex during your period more comfortable and less messy:
- Be open and honest with your partner. Tell them how you feel about consuming sex during your period, and ask them how they feel about it as well. If either of you has doubts or reservations, discuss the reasons behind that discomfort.
- If you are wearing a tampon, remove it before you start getting intimate.
- Consider using a menstrual cup or an approved menstrual disc to help prevent leaks.
- Place a dark-colored towel on the bed, or have sex in the shower or bathtub to avoid making a mess.
- Keep a wet washcloth or disposable wipes handy near the bed to clean up afterwards.
- If your usual sex position feels uncomfortable, try something different. For example, you could try lying on your side, with your partner positioned behind you.
In conclusion:
Don’t let your period put a stop to your sex life. With a little preparation, sex can be just as pleasurable during those days as it is during the rest of the month.
You might be surprised to learn that sex can be even more exciting during your period.