There are many misconceptions when it comes to having sex while on your period. Some wonder simply if you can even have sex on your period. The answer is yes, of course!
However, having sex on your period can be very difficult for many reasons, the biggest one being if you and your partner lack understanding of the subject. This is not a widely discussed topic as it was considered taboo to discuss having sex on your period for decades. But here at Perifit, we like destigmatizing taboos 💪 So we’ve gone ahead and done the research on period sex with the ultimate goal of educating everyone on this once taboo practice.
PERIOD SEX - IS IT THE BEST SEX? INS AND OUTS OF SEX WHILE ON YOUR PERIOD
The topic of period sex has certainly become less taboo over the years.
Generally, during one’s reproductive years, they experience a menstrual cycle once a month (1).
Furthermore, the pain that is experienced during a person’s period is very very real and often referred to as cramps. The medical name for this condition is dysmenorrhea (2). In fact, approximately 20% of people experience a form of dysmenorrhea that makes it nearly impossible to complete simple daily tasks. Dysmenorrhea is unlike anything you may have experienced before, and some symptoms include severe anxiety and headaches (2).
Nevertheless, when it comes to the topic of having sex on your period some enjoy it and others do not. Personal choice is key here when deciding if period sex is right for you and your partner.
CAN YOU HAVE SEX ON YOUR PERIOD?
You may be wondering if you can you have sex on your period and if it may be bad to have sex on your period. The simple answer is yes you can have sex on your period, and you may be surprised to know that there are actually various benefits associated with this practice! Below we’ve listed a few of these benefits as well as other important information pertaining to period sex:
Orgasms can alleviate cramps
Menstrual blood is not dangerous –Some people avoid period sex because they’re under the impression that menstrual blood is impure and carries various infections. This is not the case - menstrual blood is a mixture of healthy blood and tissues that the body no longer requires (3).
Reduced length of the period – Having sex on your period may increase the rate at which endometrial debris is expelled thus shortening the length of your period (3).
Approximately one-third of people have sex on their period - Simply because period sex is not commonly discussed does not mean that it is not happening. One study found that one-third of sexually active people have sex during their period. This study also noted that participants have increased sex arousal during this time (3).
Lubrication – Period blood can act as natural lubrication which can make having sex more enjoyable (4).
Pregnancy Factor – Although the chances of getting pregnant from
period sex are low, it's still possible. This is because sperm can dwell in the reproductive tract for an extended period and menstrual cycles vary from person to person (4).
Remove tampon – Always remember to remove your tampon before engaging in
period sex. A neglected tampon can be pushed further into the vagina and potentially lead to a vaginal infection (4).
Sexually transmitted diseases (STD) – Although menstrual blood is harmless it can change the pH of a person’s vagina. This increases the likelihood of contracting an STD from a partner who may be infected. It’s important to use condoms to prevent STDs and especially if you are having
period sex with a partner who has not been tested (5). Safe sex is great sex ;)
HAVING SEX ON YOUR PERIOD – THE ‘HOW TOS’
While period sex isn’t bad, it can be messy, so if you’ve decided you want to have sex while on your period, there are ways that you can make the experience more enjoyable for everyone involved:
Plan – Planning ahead is never a bad idea especially when it comes to
period sex. Planning can reduce the need for clean-up (4).
Stick to lighter days - If you know the specific days of your period when your flow is particularly lighter and if you’re able to plan it, try having sex at this time to minimize any mess (4).
Have towels readily available – Before engaging in sex during your period, lay towels underneath you to protect your sheets and mattress (4).
Utilize the shower – Shower sex has many benefits especially as it pertains to
period sex. The flow of water can wash away menstrual blood as it appears making clean up very very easy (4).
It’s important to communicate with your partner especially if you are going to have sex while on your period. Make sure that both you and your partner are comfortable with period sex Address any issues, challenges, or apprehensions that you have before you proceed.
Can you have sex on your period? Of course, the answer is yes, but at the same time you don’t have to! If you experience any pain or it becomes too uncomfortable, stop and seek the advice of a medical professional. Sex is meant to be a pleasurable act for both partners so if you find yourself trying out period sex and you realize you aren’t enjoying, remember that there is no shame and you can stop at any time!
References:
Healthline, ‘Is It Safe to Have Sex During Your Period? Tips, Benefits, and Side Effects’ date accessed on 10/25/2021: https://www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/sex-during-periods#side-effects
Healthline ‘8 Period Myths We Need to Set Straight’ date accessed on 10/25/2021:
Cosmopolitan, ’11 things to know about having sex on your period’ date accessed on 10/24/2021: https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/love-sex/sex/news/a40295/things-know-period-sex/
Verywellhealth, ‘Tips For Having Sex During Your Period’ date accessed on 10/24/2021:
Clue, ‘Period Sex 101’ date accessed on 10/24/2021 : https://helloclue.com/articles/sex/period-sex-101
Perifit, ‘Strengthen your pelvic floor with games’ date accessed on 10/24/2021