Benefits of Sex During Your Period: Relief, Shorter Periods, and More
Having sex during your period can be a bit messy, but it is safe and can even have some benefits. If you’re menstruating, you may get a few advantages, including relief from menstrual cramps.
Relief from Cramps
Orgasms may relieve menstrual cramps. Menstrual cramps are a result of your uterus contracting to release its lining. When you have an orgasm, the muscles of your uterus also contract and then release. That release should bring some relief from period cramps. Sex also triggers the release of chemicals called endorphins, which make you feel good. Plus, engaging in sexual activity occupies your mind, which may help take it off your menstrual discomfort.
Shorter Periods
Having sex may make your periods shorter. Muscle contractions during an orgasm push out the uterine contents faster. That could result in shorter periods.
Increased Sex Drive
Your libido changes throughout your menstrual cycle, thanks to hormonal fluctuations. While many people say their sex drive increases during ovulation, which is about 2 weeks before your period, others report feeling more turned on during their period.
Natural Lubrication
You can put away the K-Y during your period. Blood acts as a natural lubricant.
It Might Relieve Migraine Attacks
According to one study, about half of women living with migraine get migraine attacks during their periods. Although most people with menstrual migraine avoid sex during their attacks, a study found that many of those who do have sex say it partially or completely relieves their attacks.
The Messy Side of Period Sex
The biggest downside to having sex during your period is the mess. Blood can get on you, your partner, and the sheets, especially if you have a heavy flow. Aside from dirtying the bed, bleeding may make you feel self-conscious. Anxiety over making a mess can take some or all of the fun out of sex.
Pregnancy Risk
If you’re not actively trying to conceive, using a barrier method, like a condom, is a good idea, no matter what part of your menstrual cycle you’re in. Your odds of conceiving are lower during your period, but it’s still possible to become pregnant at this time. You’re most likely to get pregnant during ovulation, which happens about 2 weeks before your period starts. Yet every person’s cycle length is different. Your cycle length can even change monthly.
STI Risk
Using barrier methods, like condoms, help protect you against STIs. Not only can you contract an STI during your period, but you can also more easily transmit one to your partner. Some viruses, like hepatitis, live in menstrual blood.
Tips for Period Sex
Here are a few tips to make period sex a more comfortable and less messy experience:
- Be open and honest with your partner. Tell them how you feel about having sex during your period and ask how they feel about it too. If either of you is hesitant, talk about the reasons behind the discomfort.
- If you have a tampon in, remove it before you start fooling around.
- Spread a dark-colored towel on the bed to catch any blood leaks. Or, have sex in the shower or bath to avoid the mess entirely.
- Keep a wet washcloth or wet wipes by the bed to clean up afterward.
- Have your partner wear a latex condom. It can prevent pregnancy and STIs.
- If your usual sexual position is uncomfortable, try something different. For example, you may want to try lying on your side with your partner behind you.
Conclusion
Don’t let your period put a halt to your sex life. If you do a little prep work, sex can be just as enjoyable during those 5 or so days as it is the rest of the month. You might be surprised to find that sex is even more exciting during your period.
FAQs
Q: Is it safe to have sex during my period?
A: Yes, it is safe to have sex during your period. However, make sure to use a barrier method, like a condom, to prevent STIs and pregnancy.
Q: Will having sex make my period longer or shorter?
A: Having sex may make your periods shorter. Muscle contractions during an orgasm push out the uterine contents faster. That could result in shorter periods.
Q: Can I get pregnant during my period?
A: Yes, it is possible to become pregnant during your period. Your odds of conceiving are lower during your period, but it’s still possible to become pregnant at this time.
Q: How can I make period sex more comfortable and less messy?
A: Here are a few tips to make period sex a more comfortable and less messy experience: be open and honest with your partner, remove any tampons before sex, spread a dark-colored towel on the bed, and use a barrier method, like a condom.
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