You've probably heard about "period sex" before. Maybe someone has talked about it in passing, or perhaps you read an article about it online. Period sex gets a bad rep for being…well, gross. However, there are actually benefits that you could get from doing it. If you are here looking for information on period sex, you are probably ready to learn the facts and put the common misconceptions behind you once and for all!
What is period sex?
Period sex is exactly what it sounds like — sex during your period. It can also include masturbation with a tampon or menstrual cup inserted into the vagina during menstruation. The idea of having sex when you're on your period can be a little bit off-putting at first, but there are tons of reasons why people do it.
But how does this work?
The menstrual cycle is defined as the monthly release of an unfertilized egg from your ovaries, accompanied by a rise in hormone levels that causes your uterus lining to thicken. This means that your body will be more sensitive to touch and stimulation during this time. The hormonal changes also mean that some women experience orgasms more intensely than usual.
As a woman, if you have ever wondered about the safety of having sex during your period, you're not alone. In fact, many women wonder if having period sex is safe or not. According to recent research, only about 3-30% of women around the world are sexually active while on their menstrual cycle.
The truth is that it depends on the situation and how well-prepared both partners are for such an act. While some people may say that there is nothing wrong with having period sex since it's natural, others may find it disgusting due to the blood part involved in it.
The best time for period sex is when you're between periods, or just before you start bleeding. This will reduce the risk of getting pregnant because the sperm count is higher at this time. If you're trying to avoid pregnancy or if you want to make sure there's plenty of sperm around when it's time to conceive, use birth control during sex.
Benefits of period sex
There are many reasons why people have sex. For some, it is a way to release tension or stress. Others do it because they want to feel closer to their partner. And then some do it because they are horny and want to get off. But what about period sex? Here are some of the benefits of period sex.
1. Causes lighter, less painful periods
The pain of menstrual cramps is both physical and emotional. While the physical symptoms can be treated with medication, the emotional side of it may be more difficult to manage. Women who suffer from severe period pain often feel depressed, anxious, or irritable during their periods.
If you're one of the people who experience extreme menstrual cramps, try having sex on your period as it can help ease those uncomfortable feelings. This may be caused by endorphins released during sex that help relieve pain by increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation in the body.
Aside from that, period sex also makes menstruation lighter. As your muscle contract during orgasm, your body push out the uterine faster which results in lighter periods.
2. Relieves period headaches
According to research, about half of the women population experiences headaches during their period. And aside from taking medications or drinking tea, period sex can actually relieve this pain while on menstruation. This is backed by a study that states that 60% of women who had sex on their migraine attacks helped in relieving or lessening the pain.
3. Increases sex drive
Sex drive is influenced by a number of factors, including hormones, lifestyle, and stress levels.
When it comes to hormones, having sex while on your period increases your sex drive and desire for intimacy with your partner. This is because it boosts the levels of estrogen and testosterone in the body and increases dopamine production, which leads to an increase in sexual arousal.
4. Reduces stress
Period sex helps in boosting mood, therefore, reducing the stress level of a person.
It's not exactly clear why this is the case; however, there are several theories. One theory is that the physical act of having sex releases endorphins — hormones that cause feelings of happiness. Another theory is that the mood boost is linked to the oxytocin released during orgasm.
This makes sense when you consider that the female orgasm has been associated with positive emotions like contentment and euphoria, which are both things that can help relieve stress too.
Possible side effects of period sex
Having sex during your period is a good way to maintain your sexual health and have fun. But it's also an activity that comes with its own set of risks, especially if you're not comfortable talking about your period. For example, period sex can be really messy if you don’t know how to do it right.
Moreover, you might experience more cramping if you're on top during sex since gravity makes blood flow down more quickly than usual (and this is especially true if you're using an IUD). Try changing positions so that you can lie flat on your back instead of being upright and moving around as much as possible.
Aside from that, you may have an increased risk of yeast infections or UTIs (although there is no clear evidence backing this.) If you have a vaginal infection or an imbalance in the pH level of your vagina, there could be an increased risk of transmission. This is why using protection while having period sex is still essential despite having fewer possibilities of getting pregnant.
Tips on doing period sex the right way
Sex during your period can be a bit tricky, but it's not impossible. But if you're going to engage in period sex, there are some things you should know first. Here are five tips on doing it right:
1. Communicate with each other, before, during, and after
If you're both on the same page about period sex, it's great to let each other know that you're up for it. If you have any concerns, like spotting or a heavier flow, make sure that you talk about them beforehand as well.
2. Don’t push yourself or your partner
If you're tired or feeling under the weather during your period, don't push yourself to be intimate with someone else just because they want it. Instead of having sex when you don't really want to (or can't), try using another form of intimacy such as cuddling or kissing that doesn't require penetration or vaginal stimulation.
And if you do feel up for it but your partner isn't quite ready for the messiness of period sex yet (which happens!), consider doing something less risky like making out or just masturbating with sex toys.
3. Use a condom and/or a female condom
These will help prevent pregnancy and protect you against STIs (like chlamydia). The extra lubrication can even make things more comfortable for both of you during sex.
4. Try different positions
If you're worried about messes, try positions that keep the blood away from your partner's genitals (like doggy style). You can also use a towel or pad to catch any blood before it gets on the sheets or bedding. And if you're feeling extra adventurous, try some new positions that might feel better than usual during your cycle! You might find that missionary feels amazing because of all the blood flow or that cowgirl works better than usual because there's less pressure on your cervix.
5. Be prepared for cleanup afterward
Make sure you are prepared for the cleanup especially if your period is a bit heavy and you don't want to deal with stains on your sheets or clothes later on in the month. Keep extra towels around just in case! And remember that the longer you wait between washing them, the harder it will be for stains to come out completely so don't wait too long before putting them in the laundry basket!
6. Check with your gynecologist first
It's also a good idea to check with your gynecologist before trying period sex. Some women experience cramping or another discomfort when they're menstruating that can make penetration painful or uncomfortable. And if you're dealing with a heavier flow or an imbalance in hormones (which can cause irregular periods), your doctor can help pinpoint the source of the problem so you can get some relief.
Frequently Asked Questions
● Can you get pregnant with period sex?
Yes! It may seem impossible, but it can happen. This is because sperm can live inside a woman's reproductive tract for up to five days after intercourse (and even longer if there's pre-cum involved). So if you have unprotected sex during your period week and ovulate later that month, then yes — there's a chance that baby could be on its way!
● Do you need to use protection?
I would say yes, you still need to use protection while doing period sex. However, it still depends on your relationship status and situation.
If you and your partner are monogamous and in a committed relationship, with no risk of pregnancy, then there is no need to use protection during period sex.
If you’re not sure whether or not you have any STIs (sexually transmitted infections), it is best to use a condom during periods of sex. This way, if either of you has an STI, it will be protected from spreading.
However, if you are in an open relationship and/or have more than one sexual partner at a time, then condoms should always be used during period sex – unless both partners have been tested for STIs and have been given the all-clear by your doctors.
● Are STDs still possible?
It's important to note that most STDs can't be transmitted through period blood — but there are some exceptions, such as HPV (genital warts) and hepatitis B. Chlamydia and gonorrhea can also be transmitted from another person's genitals to your mouth during oral sex with someone who has an STD.
This is why it's important to use a barrier, like a condom or dental dam, during any sexual activity if you're at risk of infection.
● Do I have to remove my tampon while having period sex?
The short answer to this question is no, you do not need to remove your tampon while having sex. Don’t worry about your tampon coming out while having sex, because it won’t (unless you’re having intense sex.) The string is long enough that you'll be able to feel it if and when the tampon shifts around, so there's no reason for you to have to take it out for any reason.
Aside from that, tampons would help a lot when you’re planning to do oral sex. It keeps the blood from running out and leaking into your partner’s mouth.
If your partner is putting pressure on the string or trying to pull it out, that could be painful and cause some vaginal irritation. But as long as he's not doing anything like that, your period won't stop him from going down on you or fingering you.
● Can you have oral sex on your period?
Yes, you can have oral sex on your period. But there are a few things to keep in mind.
First of all, if you're bleeding heavily, this probably isn't the best time to go down on your partner. If the blood is mixed with mucus or discharge, it's much better to wait until the flow has subsided a bit before getting into it.
Also, make sure that you use a tampon or menstrual cup when doing this to avoid any mess and the chances of your partner tasting your blood.
● Can you use sex toys while on your period?
The short answer is yes, you can use sex toys while on your period but it will depend on the type and material of the toy you will use. If you're using a silicone or waterproof toy, those can be rinsed with soap and water after use. Alternatively, if you prefer to clean your toys with wipes or sprays, make sure you've rinsed off all traces of blood before doing so (you don't want to leave any behind).
● How do I know if I'm ready for period sex?
First of all, know that you don't have to do anything you don't want to do. Period sex isn't better or worse than any other kind of sex. It's just different — and maybe even fun! If you're worried about getting blood on your sheets or feeling uncomfortable during your period, you can try putting a towel underneath you.
Key Takeaway
Period sex is natural and healthy. It's a way of connecting with your partner in a closer way than you would normally. To sum things up, period sex should be a natural part of your relationship instead of something to be feared or avoided. It takes some preparation but, when done right, can be an amazing and unique experience!
The key to making period sex work is to get creative. Good communication and planning ahead will be key factors in making it a successful sex session.
