If you're having your period, it doesn't mean you have to give up all intimate moments with your partner for a week. On the contrary, sex during your period can bring a number of benefits to your body and health. It's up to you and your partner how you approach it. Let's answer some important questions you may have about intimacy during your period.
Can I have sex during menstruation?
Yes, you can. While it may be a sensitive topic for some and they may not feel comfortable in such a situation, there is no medical reason to avoid sex during menstruation. If you are worried about the potential mess caused by menstrual blood, you can reach for a dark towel, prepare clean sheets in case of need, or enjoy intimate moments in the shower.
Are there any risks?
Although it's not very likely, in some cases it's possible to get pregnant if you have sex during your period. ( 1 ) If you have unprotected sex near the end of your period, a man's sperm can survive in a woman's reproductive tract for up to a few days. If you ovulate earlier in your cycle, there's a small chance of getting pregnant. The key is to know your cycle well and track your fertile days. If you want to avoid pregnancy, consider using birth control during this time as well.
Another risk is the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you or your partner are at risk of infection, use a condom or other barrier method of contraception even during your period.
Can sex during menstruation bring any benefits?
Yes, it can! During sex, especially during orgasm, endorphins are released that bind to receptors in the nervous system. ( 2 ) These can help relieve the pain and cramps that often accompany a woman’s menstrual cycle . ( 3 )
Sex during menstruation can also increase libido, and menstrual blood can act as a natural lubricant.
Communication is the foundation
If you're considering sex during your period, it's important to listen to your body and make sure you're comfortable and safe. Open communication with your partner is also key , as what feels comfortable and natural to one person may be a sensitive topic for another. Sharing your feelings and needs and respecting boundaries also builds trust and has a positive impact on your relationship.
Know your cycle
Tracking and regularly recording your cycle can provide you with information about your symptoms, predict the arrival of your next period, but also determine the most fertile period of your cycle for pregnancy planning or as a form of natural contraception.
You will learn everything you need to know about the menstrual cycle from A to Z in our webinar Harmony of the Cycle . In the follow-up webinar Symptothermal Method in Practice, we will teach you how to effectively monitor and record all the symptoms of your cycle.
What else can you read on FEMSPACE?
- Menstrual *red flags*: 7 signals to watch out for
- How hormonal contraception works
- How to start tracking your menstrual cycle
- What is vaginal discharge and how does it change during the cycle?
- 4 benefits of menstrual products made from organic BIO cotton
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With love
Femvie team
