A doctor's guide to period sex

Imagine this: You want to have sex but then you remember…you’re on your period. Do you abort the mission or proceed with caution? Is it painful? Do the benefits outweigh the cleanup? Let us break it down for you.

Can you have sex on your period?

First things first: You can absolutely have sex during your period. If you and your partner are in the mood, there is no reason – practical or medical – to hold off on having period sex.

Some people might be confused about how sex works while fluid is coming out of the vagina, while others might be uncomfortable with the idea of blood getting in the mix of things. The truth is that sex happens essentially the same way as it does when there is no period blood. At the end of the day, it’s really up to the participants as to whether or not they’re in the mood and if they’re prepared for the possibility of a little extra cleanup.

Does period sex make you attached?

One common myth is that having sex during your period can create stronger emotional attachments to your partner. While there haven’t been any specific studies to verify this, sex of any kind can cause the brain to release oxytocin (often called the “love hormone”) which can make people feel more connected to their partners. In addition, it’s common for some people to experience more intense emotions while menstruating. Put these two occurrences together and it makes sense that period sex could yield more intense feelings. However, the attachment felt between two partners is dependent on countless additional factors, so it’s unlikely that period sex alone will have a significant impact on a relationship.

Remember that any sexual activity should be consensual and based on mutual desire and respect between partners. Period sex is no exception to this rule.

Is it bad?

No, period sex is not bad for you. There are certainly social and cultural views of period sex that may influence someone’s perspective, but — medically speaking — period sex is a healthy activity. As with all types of healthy sexual activity, open communication and preparation are beneficial. To ensure you’re practicing safe sex, it’s still recommended to take precautions to protect yourself and your partner from STIs and unwanted pregnancy. This includes barrier protection, knowing your STI status, and using birth control if you aren’t trying to conceive.

What are the benefits of period sex?

Not only is there nothing wrong or harmful about period sex, it can actually have some benefits, including:

• Increased sex drive or arousal. Natural hormonal fluctuations regulate the cyclical events of the menstrual cycle and often include emotional changes. One emotion that many experience is heightened sex drive during a period.
• Increased sexual pleasure. The increased blood flow during menstruation brings blood to all areas of the vulva, including the clitoris and vagina. This increased blood flow has the potential to enhance your sexual pleasure.
• Less need for lubrication. One advantage of period sex is the presence of a natural lubricant (blood) which reduces or eliminates the need for additional lube during sex. This may not be the case if you’ve used a tampon up to the point of penetration as tampons soak up most of the blood. However, using an additional lube is still safe to use while on your period.
• Less painful cramps. Menstrual cramps suck But good news…orgasms can help! Orgasms release endorphins, which are natural pain relievers that can help ease cramps.
• Shorter period. It sounds too good to be true, but some people may also experience shorter periods thanks to period sex. Since orgasms cause your uterus to contract and release, the extra release can help you shed more of the uterus lining faster.

Will period sex affect my period?

Changes to your period can happen for various reasons, but aside from the possibility of ending it earlier (thanks, orgasms!), period sex doesn’t influence the timing of your menstrual cycle. Your period can change slightly from month to month, but sex doesn’t cause substantial differences to your cycle.

The main way sex can delay your period is — wait for it — if you become pregnant. Other factors like stress, weight extremes, exercise, puberty, perimenopause, changes in birth control, or shifts in routine can also cause changes in your menstrual cycle. However, sex itself (including period sex) is not a factor.

What are the risks of period sex?

While there’s absolutely nothing dangerous about period sex, there are some potential things to consider:

• You and your partner may get a little bloody. Blood can get on you, your partner, and whatever surface you’re having sex on, but it’s nothing that can’t be solved with a little communication and preparation. Lay out a towel or opt for a location that’s conducive to a quick clean-up, like a shower.
• Sexually-transmitted infection (STIs). Period sex does not protect you from passing or contracting an STI. For those with female anatomy, the vaginal pH level tends to be slightly higher than usual during menstruation, which could potentially make you more prone to infections. For those with male anatomy, the risk of spreading an STI is the same whether or not your partner is menstruating.

Using a barrier form of protection like a condom, female condom, or dental dam can help reduce the risk of spreading an STI. Regular testing and treatment (when indicated) is also part of healthy sexual activity.

• Vaginal dryness. Increased lubrication is typically a benefit of period sex, unless you use tampons. Tampons are very effective at their job of soaking up blood, so they can leave the vaginal canal dry immediately after removal. Using lubricant can help prevent any discomfort or friction during sex.

Tips for better period sex

• Ditch your period products. Before having sex, be sure to remove your tampon, pad, menstrual cup or disc. If you use tampons, have a water-based lubricant on hand to avoid vaginal dryness.
• Use a towel. You can place a towel under you to catch any blood that might otherwise reach your sheets (or whatever surface you’re having sex on). This will also make clean-up quick and easy.
• Try different positions. The right position can make period sex more relaxing. Try different positions to see what feels best for you and your partner. If blood leakage is a concern, consider positions that place you beneath your partner, like missionary. Talk to your partner and explore what works best.
• Communicate. Open communication is key for period sex. Discuss any concerns, preferences, and boundaries before engaging. Being on the same page with your partner will make the experience better for the both of you.
• Aftercare matters. Use a pH-balanced wipe or a wet towel to clean yourself after sex. Also, be sure to pee after sex to help expel other bacteria.

Can you get pregnant during period sex?

Though the chances are low, it’s still possible. If you’re not on a consistent form of birth control (like hormonal birth control pills, the IUD, shot, patch, or ring) don’t rely on period sex as a go-to for preventing pregnancy. Using a barrier method, like condoms, reduces your chances of becoming pregnant while also protecting yourself and your partner from STIs. Emergency contraception like the Julie Morning After Pill™ can also help prevent pregnancy when taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex.

While we love to share useful and helpful information, the above shouldn’t replace the advice of your healthcare professional. For questions about birth control and other women’s health issues, please talk to your doctor.