Everything You've Been Wondering About Period Sex
Yes, you can absolutely have sex on your period! While it can be a divisive topic for some, it also has many benefits and can be arranged in a way that doesn’t have to be a messy session with your partner (if that is a concern). As with all sexually active womxn, it is important to understand your sexual health including regular testing for STI’s, your Ph balance, and the health of your menstrual cycle.
Benefits of Period Sex
Many uterus-owners have reported numerous benefits to period sex including relieving headaches, natural lubrication, and extra endorphins to ease discomfort. Hormone fluctuation can also increase sensation and desire during this time. Lastly, orgasms help the uterine walls contract and release so you may notice a relief of cramps, even temporarily.
Tips and Tricks
Menstrual blood may not bother you and your partner during period sex. However, if blood is a concern, then there are easy ways to mitigate the mess. Do not wear a tampon, though, as penetration with a penis, fingers, or any toy can push the tampon father in the vagina and risk infection.
Instead, consider waiting for days with a lighter flow, put some towels down, wear a menstrual cup, or even spice it up safely in the shower. Importantly, a menstrual cup is not contraception, and you should still wear a condom to prevent transmitting STI’s if you and your partner are not already fluid bonded.
Clean toys well, as the shedding of the uterine lining can increase the chance for yeast infection, as well as transmitting STI’s at this time of the month.
Common Questions
Can you get pregnant during period sex?
Without prophylactics such as a condom, technically you can get pregnant, depending on where you are in your cycle. Although it is very unlikely, to be sure. It is possible because towards the end of your cycle, when the uterine lining is shedding less, sperm can stay in the vagina for up to five days. Therefore, condoms are highly recommended, and the natural lubrication of your period can make it more pleasurable.
Safer sex is always a good idea, especially with someone you don’t know very well. And as mentioned, shedding of the lining increases chances of bacteria, so wearing a condom is the best bet, overall.
Are there alternatives to vaginal penetrative sex during my period?
Absolutely, there are. Sex is certainly not limited to penis in vagina, there are other ways to enjoy sex including, foreplay, anal, oral, and simply focusing on the clitoris. You can even opt to use toys for convenience, hygiene, preference, or to practice safer sex. Just make sure the toys are cleaned before and after. It is still not a bad idea to use a condom on toys for the reasons outlined above.
What if sex is painful during or after, and does not help?
Pain around intercourse, or other penetration, can mean more lubrication is needed, or you may try training exercises for size. It can also mean that you should see a doctor to discuss endometriosis. While it is relatively common among womxn, it can be very painful especially around menstruation and sex. Most of these symptoms can be managed under a doctor’s care, including tips to make sex more enjoyable.
If you are experiencing any problems with your menstrual cycle, it is highly advised to speak with your medical professional.
