Unless it troubles you, there’s no need to avoid sexual activity during your period. Though period sex can be a bit messy, it is safe. It can even have some benefits.
The biggest downside to having sex during your period is the mess. Blood can get on you, your partners, and the sheets, especially if you have a heavy flow.
Aside from dirtying the bed, bleeding may make you feel self-conscious. Anxiety over making a mess can take some or all of the fun out of sex.
Another worry about having sex during your period is the risk of transmitting a sexually transmitted infection (STI), like HIV. HIV is contained in blood and
Using condoms and other barrier methods every time you have partner sex can reduce your risk of transmitting and contracting HIV and other STIs.
If you plan to have sex during your period and you’re wearing a tampon, you need to remove it beforehand. A forgotten tampon can get pushed so far up into your vagina during sex that you’ll need to visit a doctor to have it removed.
Certain menstrual cups may also need to be removed.
If you’re not actively trying to conceive, using a barrier method, like a condom, is a good idea, no matter what part of your menstrual cycle you’re in.
Your odds of conceiving are lower during your period, but it’s still possible to become pregnant at this time.
You’re most likely to get pregnant during ovulation, which happens about 2 weeks before your period starts. Yet, every person’s cycle length is different. Your cycle length can even change monthly.
If you have a short menstrual cycle, your chances of getting pregnant during your period are higher. Also, consider that sperm can stay alive in your body for several days.
So, if you have a 22-day cycle, for example, and you ovulate soon after getting your period, there’s a chance you’ll be releasing an egg while sperm are still in your reproductive tract.
Having sex during your period does have a few upsides:
1. Relief from cramps
Orgasms may relieve menstrual cramps. Menstrual cramps are a result of your uterus contracting to release its lining.
When you have an orgasm, the muscles of your uterus also contract and then release. That release should bring some relief from period cramps.
Sex also triggers the release of chemicals called endorphins, which make you feel good. Plus, engaging in sexual activity occupies your mind, which may help take it off your menstrual discomfort.
2. Increased libido
Your libido changes throughout your menstrual cycle thanks to hormonal fluctuations.
While many people say their libido increases during ovulation, some report increased arousal during menstruation.
3. Natural lubrication
You can put away the K-Y during your period. Blood acts as a natural lubricant.
4. It might relieve migraine attacks
Many people living with migraine get migraine attacks during menstruation.
Although people with menstrual migraine often avoid sexual activity during their attacks, a 2013 study found that those who do have sex say it partially or completely relieves their attacks.
Here are a few tips to make period sex a more comfortable and less messy experience:
- Be open and honest with your partners. Tell them how you feel about having sex during your period, and ask how they feel about it, too. If one of you is hesitant, talk about the reasons behind the discomfort.
- If you have a tampon in, remove it before you start fooling around.
- Consider using an approved menstrual cup or menstrual disc to help prevent leaks.
- Spread a dark-colored towel on the bed, or have sex in the shower or bath to avoid the mess entirely.
- Keep a wet washcloth or wet wipes by the bed to clean up afterward.
- If your usual sexual position is uncomfortable, try something different. For example, you may want to try lying on your side with your partner behind you.
Don’t let your period put a halt to your sex life. If you do a little prep work, sex can be just as enjoyable during those days as it is the rest of the month.
You might be surprised to find that sex can be even more exciting during your period.