Health & Beauty
Is it ok to have sex during your period? 5 benefits and tips from the experts
Whether you're in a new relationship, or firmly established, there's the lingering question of whether it is ok to have sex during your period.
Of course, there should be no stigma or taboo about Aunty Flo making her monthly appearance, but some women do experience hesitation when it comes to being intimate while menstruating.
It's normal to question whether it's ok to have sex while on your period (Credit: Alamy)
Is it ok to have sex during your period?
There is no need to avoid sexual activity during your period, and in fact, there can be several benefits associated with it.
Here, we break down the upsides of having sex on your period.
1. Having sex during your period can help relieve cramps
Menstrual cramps are a result of your uterus contracting to release its lining. It's a very common complaint amongst menstruating women. and whilst painkillers work a treat, so may sex!
When you experience an orgasm, the muscles of your uterus contract, then release. This sensation normally brings some relief from period cramps.
And as we all know, sex just makes us feel good. This is because it triggers the release of endorphins, which are likely to take your mind off uncomfortable cramps.
Period cramps are a common complaint amongst menstruating women (Credit: Alamy)
2. Enjoy an increased sex drive
During your menstrual cycle, hormonal changes mean your sex drives increases and decreases at particular points.
Many women find that they have an increased libido during that time of the month, according to — and it's just another reason not to shy away from sex when you're on your period.
You may experience a higher libido when you are menstruating (Credit: Alamy)
3. Shorter periods
Having sex can also make your periods shorter. As orgasms result in muscle contractions, the uterine contents are often pushed out faster.
This could result in a shorter cycle — which everyone wants!
Having sex on your period could mean that it doesn't last so long (Credit: Alamy)
4. Natural lubrication
Another benefit to having sex whilst menstruating is that there's little need for added lubrication. You can put away your lube, and just rely on the natural lubrication provided by your menstrual blood.
Of course, if you need a little added lubrication, please don't hesitate to reach for your lube of choice.
Menstrual blood often provides enough lubrication (Credit: Alamy)
5. Ease headaches
Another issue you may experience while menstruating is headaches.
Similarly to how having sex helps relieve period cramps, it may also help relieve your headache. As mentioned earlier, having sex releases endorphins, which decreases the sensation of pain. But also, sex is fun, and doing the deed can really keep your mind of any discomfort you may be experiencing.
Having sex can also help ease headache pain (Credit: Alamy)
How to have period sex
Most people's concerns about period sex revolve around the mess it can cause. If you're experiencing heavy blood flow, there is a chance that the blood could get on you, your partner, or your sheets. If this is a concern, ensure to lay down a towel, or an old sheet — and alternatively, you can wait for a day where your period is lighter.
There is also the risk of passing on a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Infections such as HIV and hepatitis actually live in blood, and can spread through contact with infected period blood. Ensure to use a condom when you have sex to reduce your chances of getting an STD.
Finally, although your chances of conceiving are lower on your period, there is still risk that you can get pregnant during sex. Sperm can also stay alive in your body for up to seven days — so even if you ovulate after your period, there is a chance you could get pregnant. So, if you're not looking to conceive, ensure to use the proper protection during period sex.
Otherwise, there's absolutely no reason to fear period sex. It's normal, natural, and healthy to enjoy sex whilst you're menstruating.
