Sex during your period: tips, benefits and risks

Sex. Menstruation.

Two words you probably find rather tricky to fit into the same sentence. Have you ever wondered why? Why is period sex such a taboo? Ultimately, sex is personal and intimate, and you decide when, how and whether you say yes. But if you feel you can't really enjoy sex during your period, then this article is just for you! 

A note: when we talk about sex, we mean all the different ways you can do it with another person – regardless of your body, your preferences or your gender identity. So don't get stuck on the idea of penetrative sex alone. Sex is so much more than that. But let's start at the beginning. 

Can you have penetrative sex during your period?

Absolutely! And thankfully, more and more people are realising that menstruation is completely natural – there's no room for fear or disgust here. Period sex comes down mainly to what you and your partner want and how comfortable you both feel. Did you know you get the benefit of natural lubrication? For some, that's an added turn-on.

What are the benefits of period sex?

You've probably heard or read the arguments against: it's too complicated, or too "messy"! But you should know the arguments in favour too – and above all the benefits of having sex during your period. 

🩸 Menstrual blood acts as a natural lubricant

No extra cost, no potential chemical additives: menstrual blood is an excellent natural lubricant.

🩸 More intimacy, less taboo

When you feel comfortable in your body and your partner feels just as comfortable regardless of the situation, intimacy takes on a whole new meaning. You can also learn a great deal about your partner in the process – you might even be pleasantly surprised! 

And one more thing: period sex helps dismantle negative ideas and the (still very real) shame around menstruation, while encouraging self-acceptance and self-care!

🩸 Period sex eases cramps

You read that right: sex helps reduce period pain and ease cramps. Orgasms prompt the body to produce more endorphins – hormones that make you feel good and act as natural painkillers against back, stomach or head pain. Those same endorphins also help you channel your energy better. 

🩸 Heightened sensitivity 

What does that mean? Not just more intense orgasms, but every touch feels amplified. Now's the time to experiment and play, because your body will experience different, more intense sensations.

🩸 A shorter period

The muscular contractions in the vagina and uterus may be responsible: they speed up the flow of blood, and the result is a shorter period.

In short: there are plenty of reasons to enjoy period sex! And if you're not feeling your best (cramps, bloating, being overly sensitive to touch or smell), that's absolutely fine too! Any reason for not wanting sex is a valid one. Especially when you consider the few minor downsides of period sex (for which there are solutions, mind you)! 

Even so: what are the risks?

• An unwanted pregnancy – if you don't use protection
• Increased risk of infection – as the cervix is more open, bacteria or viruses can enter more easily
• Increased pain – due to heightened sensitivity

What you should know – or 7 tips to help you

If you're not quite sure where to begin: don't worry! We've been there too, and what we can tell you with 100% certainty is this: nothing is wrong, as long as you feel safe (and are safe), protect yourself against sexually transmitted infections and/or an unwanted pregnancy, and everyone involved consents. The rest… is down to you and your preferences. But if you insist, we've got a few tips for less stressful – and far more enjoyable – sex. 

1. Take your time

Our advice: don't rush. During your period, the cervix sits lower than usual, so you're more likely to bump against it – and that can be painful.

2. Worried about stains?

Then now's the perfect moment for sex in the bath or shower: no stress about clothes or bedding that need washing. 

3. Forget penetration

Use this time to play more, and differently: explore different erogenous zones or try new things – think fingers, external vibrators, long kisses, role play. The possibilities are practically endless!

4. Talk to your partner

One of the most important things, naturally, is communication. So ask your partner how they feel, and say what you'd like. You should both be on the same wavelength. 

5. Don't wear menstrual products

Whether you're wearing a menstrual cup or an organic tampon – make sure you remove it before things get started. If you use a menstrual disc, you can keep it in during penetrative sex – just make sure you empty it beforehand!

6. Use a towel

A dark towel is a reliable way to avoid stains on the bedding. So keep one to hand if that makes you feel more comfortable.

7. Protect yourself

Because the risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections is still there during your period. The good news: you can use a condom (internal or external).

Every cycle is different – you just need to get to know your own and understand your body! And if you'd like to read more, find out which factors can affect your libido.