Most women skip sexual activity during their period, but there’s no reason for you to skip out on sexytime on your red days, unless of course, you’re uncomfortable with it or not in the mood.

Benefits of period sex

Physiological reactions during sex actually have benefits that you might never have thought of.

Menstrual cramps relief. Menstrual cramps are caused by the contractions of the uterus to release the lining that it’s shedding. During an orgasm, the muscles of the uterus contract as well. And when they release, that should bring some relief from the cramps.

Sex also stimulates the release of endorphins, the feel-good hormone that can help keep your mind off of pain and discomfort.

Shorter periods. Contractions of the uterus during an orgasm pushes out more lining being shed. That could help make your periods shorter.

More sex drive. The changes in hormone levels during your period can also increase libido, which could make sex more pleasurable. Some women say that their sex drives are higher during ovulation, which is two weeks before their period, while others say that they feel more turned on during their period.

Could relieve headaches. Studies show that sex can help partially or completely relieve headaches. More research is needed to figure out why this happens, but experts say that the surge of endorphins has something to do with numbing headache pain.

Possible Consequences

Although period sex has its benefits, there are also some disadvantages to it.

It can get messy. You can get blood on you, your partner, and on the sheets, especially when your flow is heavy. Getting blood all over the place could also make you self-conscious, and take your focus away from enjoying.

STIs are lurking. There’s an increased risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) since the viruses live in blood, and coming in contact with infected period blood during sex can make you contract or pass on an infection.

Positions are limited. Oral sex will most likely be uncomfortable during your period. You might also want to avoid deep penetration. The cervix is much lower and more sensitive during your period, and deep penetration could be painful.

Less mess tips

Talk about it. Tell your partner how you feel about having period sex. Be open about why you’re uncomfortable with it or why you want to do it.

Plan ahead. If both of you are down to do it, it’s better to be prepared ahead since it may require a few more preparations before getting into action. Think about what you need, what you have to do, and what you can do during period sex.

Cover your bed with a towel. There’s always a chance of getting blood anywhere when you have period sex. You can spread a dark-colored towel over your bed to catch any blood.

Have tissue or wet wipes nearby. They’ll be really handy for clean-ups! 

Use a condom. Sex is much more enjoyable when you are free from worries, so it’s best to use a condom to protect you from infections and problems.

Do it in the shower. Some have period sex in the shower since it’s less messy and easier to clean up. If you plan on doing it in the shower, just be extra careful since you might slip! Having an anti-slip rubber mat on the shower floor could help you.

Take out the tampon. If you have a tampon in, don’t forget to take it out before having sex. A tampon pushed way too deep in the vagina might require some help from a doctor.

Try out different positions. Positions that require you to lie down on your back, such as the missionary, might be the best choice to lessen dripping of period blood. Try out different positions that don’t cause too much blood dripping and that you’re both comfortable with.

Don’t let your period stop you from having sexual activity! If you do choose to have sex while on your period, don’t forget about taking extra precautions such as protection to avoid STIs and unplanned pregnancy. Nothing should stop you from enjoying!

Sources:

https://flo.health/menstrual-cycle/sex/sexual-health/sex-on-period

https://www.verywellhealth.com/sex-during-your-period-2721991

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321667.php#can-you-get-pregnant

https://www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/sex-during-periods#benefits