While it may pose some logistical concerns, sex during periods is possible, and has its own set of benefits. In fact, people with vaginas sometimes find it more pleasurable to have sex during their period.
Benefits include:
- Cramp and Headache Relief: During periods, the uterine wall is constantly contracting to shed its lining. Orgasms cause the uterine wall to contract and then release, which relieves cramps. Besides, sexual activity and orgasms release endorphins, or the body’s endogenous pain killers, which help relieve cramps and migraines/headaches associated with periods.
- Shorter periods: The contraction and expansion of the uterine wall during an orgasm may cause it to shed its lining faster, leading to a shorter period.
- Lubrication: Menstrual flow acts as a natural lubricant, making sex more comfortable.
Things to remember:
- Spreading a towel on your bed/other surfaces can help protect them. Have more towels and tissues handy so you can wipe yourself when you’re done.
- Stick to light flow days.
- Reduce your flow by using a disposable menstrual cup. While tampons and silicone menstrual cups should be removed before having sex, the DISPOSABLE version of the menstrual cup sold by brands like Ziggy or Flex is soft and does not need to be removed. It collects blood right at the mouth of the cervix, and keeps the vagina relatively blood free.
- Reducing blood flow is also possible with the contraceptive sponge that sits at the tops of the cervix and collects blood, leaving the vagina relatively blood free. The contraceptive sponge also protects against pregnancy risks, and is likely more comfortable.
- Using hands or mouths can be slightly messy during periods. Rethink foreplay by reducing the flow, or using dental dams for oral sex during periods.
- Opt for the missionary position as lying down on one’s back can reduce blood flow.
- Make sure to always remove tampons or silicone menstrual cups before period sex. A forgotten tampon may be lodged further into the body, and can lead to bacterial infections.
- Finally, communicate with your partner(s) about what everyone involved is comfortable with, and finds pleasurable. Discussing things ahead of time can give everyone a clear understanding of expectations and concerns.
An important thing to remember, is that even though the body might be shedding the uterine lining, the risk of pregnancy during sex on your period is not fully eliminated. Similarly, being on your period does not remove the risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease or infection. The only way to protect against unwanted pregnancies and STI/Ds is by using internal or external condoms. Hence, proper precautions should be taken.
