Can I have sex during my menstrual period?
This is a common question that comes to the mind of most sexually active women.
Over the years, you may have heard different opinions about having sex during menstruation, and you might be wondering if they are true or false.
Having sex while on your period may sound daunting and unfamiliar, but medical science has shown that it’s actually safe. In fact, menstrual periods can be an exciting time for couples who want to get creative with their sex lives.
By understanding more about safe sex during periods, you can make an informed decision about when—and if—to try it out for yourself. What are the benefits of having sex during your period?Here are some interesting facts about having sex during your period.
It might increase sexual pleasure due to heightened sensitivity: During the menstrual cycle, the levels of estrogen and testosterone fluctuate, and that can have an impact on sexual desire. Also, some women experience a higher sex drive during their period due to the increased testosterone levels, which in turn increases their chances of experiencing orgasm.
It might reduce menstrual cramps: If you often experience painful menstruation, having sex might help to reduce the pain. Believe it or not, during orgasm, your body actually releases endorphins. These hormones are known for blocking pain signals from reaching the brain; this means that sex can potentially help to relieve period cramps and pains.
Increased lubrication: The hormonal changes that occur during menstruation can lead to increased vaginal lubrication, making sex more comfortable and enjoyable.
It might lead to shorter periods: According to some sources, having sex during your period may help shorten the duration of your period. This is because the contractions that occur during an orgasm can help to expel menstrual blood more quickly.
What are the potential risks of having sex during your period?
Increased risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs): The presence of blood and bodily fluids can increase the risk of infection, especially if one of the partners has a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Also, during menstruation, the cervix is slightly more open, and that can increase the risk of bacterial infections such as pelvic inflammatory disease and bacterial vaginosis.
Increased risk of pregnancy: While it is less likely, it is still possible to get pregnant during your menstrual cycle. The chances of getting pregnant depend on several factors, such as the length of your menstrual cycle, the regularity of your periods, and the timing of ovulation.
Messiness: Sex during your period can be messy and may require extra cleanups, such as changing bed sheets or towels, and some people consider that uncomfortable. What about the odour of the blood? It can be a turn-off for some partners.
Discomfort: Many people experience menstrual cramps during their period, which can make sex painful. Also, due to the sensitivity of the cervix, penetration and sexual stimulation might be uncomfortable for some people.
If you experience any pain during sex, ensure to communicate with your partner about your comfort level and preferences.
Tips for having sex during your period
Practise good hygiene: Wash your genitals thoroughly before and after sex, to reduce the risk of infection.
Use protection: To reduce the risk of STIs and unwanted pregnancy, use protection, such as condom. You may also want to use extra lubrication to make sex more comfortable.
Explore different sex positions: Some positions may be more comfortable or less messy during your period. For example, the missionary position might help keep things tidier. Also, if penetrative sex is uncomfortable, the couple can try oral stimulation.
Use a towel or have sex in the shower: To avoid staining your sheets or clothing, you may want to put down a towel or have sex in the shower, so you don’t have anything to clean afterwards.
Communicate with your partner: During the act, speak up if something doesn’t feel good or if something needs adjusting. Remember that this is supposed to be fun and enjoyable, so go with whatever works for you both!
Conclusion
Let’s be honest, sex during your period isn’t something most people talk about. In some cultures, a woman is considered unclean during her period, and she is not even allowed to cook for her family. This is why some of them may feel ashamed to ask for sex.
Well, the decision to have sex during your period is a personal one and should be based on your individual preferences and comfort level. It is not an abomination, and with proper protection, it can be just as enjoyable and safe as any other type of sexual activity.
Disclaimer: This article was written for information purposes only and it is not a medical advice. If you have doubts or questions, kindly speak to your doctor.
