Everything You Need to Know About Having Sex during Your Period

Everything You Need to Know About Having Sex during Your Period

You may wonder if it is common for people to have sex while on their period and if it is safe. Nearly 30 percent of women have sex while on their period. While it may be messy, some believe they are more sexually aroused during their period, and sex is more pleasurable. Although it may sound taboo, sex during your period has many benefits and is not as risky as you may think. 

Can You Have Sex on Your Period?

Yes! Period sex may also be more enjoyable because you are more sensitive, and blood acts as a natural lubricant. Even though you are on your period, it is still important to practice safe sex. You can still pass on or receive an STI, and you could still get pregnant. 

Is it safe to have sex during your period?

Yes! It is safe to have sex while on your period. There are many benefits for women to have sex while on their period. In addition, there are little to no risks of having sex while on your period versus any other time of the month. The only downside of having sex while on your period is it may be messy. 

While sex on your period is safe, it does not protect you from sexually transmitted infections or pregnancy. 

Does having sex on your period make you bleed more? 

Having sex on your period increases your blood flow, but not for the reasons you may think. Orgasms increase the amount of blood expelled from your uterus. This, in turn, may shorten the duration of your period. 

Can sex make your period start?

There has been a lot of debate about whether sex may jumpstart your period. Some believe an orgasm may cause your period to start earlier. This is because an orgasm causes your uterus to contract rhythmically and may help induce the shedding of your uterine lining. However, in order for your period to start, there is usually an increased level of prostaglandins in your body which means that your body was preparing for your period before engaging in sex. That said, it is hard to state that having sex starts your period. 

What are the Benefits of Having Sex on Your Period?

  • Orgasms help with menstrual cramps.
  • Period blood acts as a natural lubricant. 
  • The uterine contractions during orgasm help expel blood faster and shorten the length of your period. 
  • The hormone fluctuations you experience during your period may increase your libido and make sex more enjoyable. 
  • May reduce headaches.

Do You Need to Use Protection?

Protection is just as important during your period as it is when not on your period. Using protection during sex will help protect you against STIs (sexually transmitted infections) and pregnancy.

Many forms of birth control are available today for women, but not every method reduces the risk of STIs.  Wearing a latex condom every time you have sex will reduce your risk of developing infections transmitted from bodily fluids such as semen and blood. If worn correctly, condoms are 98 percent effective in protecting against STIs and pregnancy. Other forms of protection, such as birth control pills or the shot, do not offer STI protection but may prevent pregnancy. 

Can You Get Pregnant Having Sex on Your Period?

While it is less likely to get pregnant while on your period, it is still possible. There are a few things that may happen and cause pregnancy, such as: 

  • Irregular spotting may cause doubt about whether you are on your period or spotting during ovulation. 
  • Ovulation may occur shortly after the beginning of your period.
  • If ovulation occurs shortly after the end of your period, semen lives up to three days after sex and may still fertilize an egg. 

Tips on having sex during your period

  • Remove your tampon before sex
  • Have a wet washcloth nearby for easy cleanup after
  • Consider using a condom for STI protection and pregnancy
  • Open communication between you and your partner is crucial to discuss what is comfortable.
  • Lay a large towel down to protect the bedding from leaks
  • Consider having sex in the shower
  • If you feel uncomfortable and squirmish with blood, consider waiting until the bleeding has subsided. 

How to prepare for leaks after having sex on your period 

Your flow may become heavier after engaging in sex while on your period. While this may, in turn, shorten the duration of your period, it is important to prepare for the increase in blood flow. After sex, many products accommodate the heavier flow. Some examples include: 

Leakproof underwear

Leakproof undies are designed to replace (or backup) tampons or pads, which may contain toxic ingredients. In addition, they are reusable and easy to wash. Proof® period underwear feature four absorbency levels: light, moderate, heavy, and super heavy. The super heavy styles may hold up to 5 tampons or ten teaspoons of liquid, which makes this underwear perfect for all-day wear. In addition, Proof® uses super absorbent materials to ensure that leaks stay on the period underwear, so you stay dry and free of any leaks on your pants. 

Tampons

Tampons are designed to be inserted into the vagina to absorb blood during menstruation. Tampons are discrete, relatively easy to wear and come in various absorbance levels. However, if left in too long, tampons pose health risks, such as toxic shock syndrome. Therefore, a tampon must be changed every four to eight hours to prevent infection and bacteria growth. In addition, some women find it helpful to wear a pad with their tampons to avoid extra leaks.  

Menstrual cups

Menstrual cups have been around for many years but have become increasingly popular due to their ability to collect blood without harsh chemicals. Some menstrual cups are disposable, but many women prefer reusable ones to help reduce waste in the environment. A person may wear a menstrual cup for 6 to 12 hours before changing it. However, like tampons, menstrual cups pose a risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome if left inserted for too long. 

Pads

Pads are a rectangular piece of absorbent material that attaches to the underwear to catch menstrual bleeding and prevent it from leaking onto your underwear. Pads should be changed every three to four hours to prevent the growth of bacteria and leaks. There are different types of pads, disposable and reusable. Some women prefer reusable pads because they do not contain any toxic ingredients; however, they are bulky and not as comfortable to wear. 

Closing Thoughts

Your period does not have to prevent you from getting frisky. Period sex may be messy, but the benefits should not be ignored. An orgasm during your period may help relieve cramping, reduce the length of your period, and relieve your headaches. Talking with your partner about your boundaries and what you are comfortable with is essential. If you are uncomfortable engaging in sex while on your period, that is okay too. You are not alone. Remember to use protection because you may still get pregnant and spread or catch an STI regardless of being on your period or not. 

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