Can Having Sex Make Your Period Late
A menstrual cycle is the body’s way to get ready for pregnancy. Every cycle lasts for 28 days on an average, varying between 21-35 days in adults and 21-45 days in teens. The periods can last from 3-5 days or extend up to 7 days. However, if your periods are regular and you notice that they have been delayed for more than 5 days from the due date, they could be late if one period is late for more than 6 weeks, it can be considered missed. Do you know why your period is late? Can having sex make your period late? Read on to know more.
Having Sex During A Period May Reduce Cramps
Yup, you heard right. Having sex on a period may actually help with pain reduction. This may mean lessening cramps. One of the most common PMS symptoms, cramps are the result of uterine muscle contraction. Orgasms may help manage this cramping sensation and pain and also produce endorphins, which make you happy.
Don’t Worry Your Time Of The Month Doesn’t Need To Mean Time Off From Sex
A horror show.Im not into that crazy shit.Step back.
The above are a sample of responses Ive received from partners when I disclosed I was on my period.
I always preface any kind of sexual activity by making it clear if I am menstruating, in case that might make my partner uncomfortablebecause it does. For a lot of people. While this feedback didnt put me off the great joys of period sex, it made me wary of sexual partners who treat a simple bodily function as something disgusting or shameful.
That being said, Ive also had wonderful period sex experiences, where my partners expressed only curiosity and eagerness, which adds to the arousal.
One of the best representations Ive seen of how normal period sex can be was in an episode of HBOs I May Destroy You, when lead character Arabella is in bed with Biagio , a very hot Italian man. When he pulls off her underwear, he takes her liner with it, and when he then fingers her, he asks if he can remove her tampon. He even examines the blood clot that falls into his hand as he fingers her, asking polite questions about what it is, admiring its softness. Its a touching, sensual scene with zero stigmaand totally realistic.
If period sex sounds like something you want to try, you probably have more than a few questions, so lets tackle them with some expert advice.
Recommended Reading: Is There A Way To Stop Periods
Period Sex Tips: How To Have Sex During Your Period
Burgess Powell|17 October, 2019
Period sex can be more fun than your regular routine. Yes, you heard right: Once you know how to have sex on your period, your time of the month wont stop you from enjoying the best of life. But what makes sex during your period different from regular intercourse ? And whats the best way to embrace — and even enjoy — your time of the month in the bedroom? Heres what you guys had to say about this once-taboo topic.
Disclaimer: The following information is not medical advice. It was written for informational purposes only.
Reasons Your Period Is Heavier Than Usual
From no-biggie birth control changes to serious medical problems.
When it comes to menstruation, not all periods are created equal. Any Mean Girls fan knows that some women just have a heavy flow and wide-set vagina! And while you shouldnt worry if you typically use super tampons while your friends always grabbing the light ones, something might be up if your flow has dramatically changed and is now heavier than it usually is.
Women are definitely aware of whats normal for them, says ob-gyn Jennifer Ashton, M.D. If one of my patients is experiencing something irregular and it happens three months in a row, I like to see her.
From no-biggie birth control changes to serious medical problems, here are seven reasons why you might be bleeding more than usual.
Considering that hormonal birth-control pills often regulate and lessen periodsin fact, some doctors prescribe it specifically to lighten up heavy flowsit makes sense that if you switch to a non-hormonal pill or stop taking oral contraception completely, youre going to be going through your tampons faster. And although IUDs like Mirena also lighten periods, Ashton says that non-hormonal IUDs tend to cause heavier periods in most women. While this is generally normal, see a healthcare professional if your heavy bleeding continues three months after insertion.
Also Check: How To Make Period Go Away Faster
You Can Still Get Pregnant
Lots of things come up when people talk about period sex, but one topic that doesn’t come up enough is the fact that you canget pregnant when youre bleeding.
Technically, you cannot get pregnant during your actual period, but its not quite as simple as you might think. “If you’re really having your period, then you ovulated two weeks ago, you did not get pregnant, and you’re shedding uterine lining,” Dweck tells Bustle. “If that is really the case, then you can’t get pregnant because the window of fertility is gone.”
But the problem is that so many people with vaginas have irregular periods, so if you don’t know exactly when you’re menstruating and ovulating, the risk is there. Ross explains that people with shorter menstrual cycles may be at risk of getting pregnant during the final days of their period. If you have 21 days between day one of your last period to day one of your next period, you probably ovulate on day 10 of your cycle, she says. If your period lasts seven days and you have sex on day seven, its possible to become pregnant on day 10 since sperm lives for three to five days. Plus, blood doesnt always mean you are menstruating in some cases, it may be a sign of spotting between periods.
Its better to assume that pregnancy is still possible from penis-in-vagina penetration and to plan accordingly. Always play it safe and use a reliable birth control method, even on your period, Ross suggests.
Can You Have Unprotected Sex While Your Period
The answer here is the same whether youre on your period or not. Because like other bodily fluids , blood can transmit sexually transmitted infections so using a condom is still important.
Dr. Christine Derzko, a physician at St. Michaels Hospital and a professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Toronto, says simply, Its not wise. Why? Because rarely but sometimesthere is enough estrogen and therefore cervical mucus there to nourish sperm and give them a place to survive until ovulation. Its also easier to pick up an STI during your period.
Read Also: Can Plan B Make Your Period Early
Having Sex On Your Period: Heres What You Need To Know
Grossed out by period sex? Super into period sex? Both are cool. But whether or not you or your partner are grossed out at the thought about having sex while on your period, lets be real: Chances are youve both at least wondered about it. After all, the chances that you and your partner wont have a day when at least one of you are both feeling frisky and menstruating are ..well, theyre very slim. Which brings us back to, Is having sex while on your periodgood?
Is it healthy? Hugely underrated? Unnecessarily stigmatized? Hey, periods in general are stigmatized, but thats for another article. And, given the likely potential for some messy post-coital sheets, youve likely wondered whether its worth it.
To give us a breakdown about what we should keep in mind when it comes to having period sex, we reached out to Felice Gersh, an OB/GYN and founder of the Integrative Medical Practice of Irvine in Irvine, CA. Heres what you should know.
What are some common misconceptions about period sex that we can clear up right off the bat?
One potential misconception is that its inherently dangerous. Its not inherently dangerous to have sex while youre on your period. A menstrual bleed is just sloughing of the uterine lining so theres no danger just in terms of having sex while youre having a period.
Therefore you definitely would want to use condoms, particularly if its not a long-term monogamous relationship where you know the health status of the partner.
Having Sex On Your Period Can Be More Enjoyable
Libido and interest in sex are connected to your hormones. As your hormones shift during your period, you may find yourself feeling more aroused than usual. This can be, in part, due to the dip in progesterone.
Right before you get your period and on day one, hormones that stimulate sex drive are low, but they start to rise by day three, increasing libido for some people. Hormones can vary between people, so its totally normal if you dont feel more aroused during your period.
Recommended Reading: What Would Cause My Period To Be Late
How To Have Period Sex
Now you know period sex is safe and normal, so lets cover a few tips to make period sex enjoyable and fun.
- Talk with your partner. Communication is key . Make sure you are both on the same page with comfort levels.
- Consider your flow. If you know you have a heavier flow earlier or in the middle of your cyles, maybe you want to decide to wait until then to have sex. But if you are comfortable regardless of flow, then go for it.
- Remove menstrual products. This one may seem obvious, but its easy to forget! Take out your tampon or menstrual cup before having sex, as it can be uncomfortable and potentially unsafe if it gets pushed up too far. Some specialized products, like the flexible menstrual disc, are designed for use during sex and may be left in place.
- Set up your space. If you have sex on the bed, put down towels first and consider having wipes nearby. Shower sex is also a good option if you want to avoid the need for extra clean-up altogether.
- Remember STI protection. Use a condom if sexually transmitted infections are a possibility.
- Experiment with positions. You may find you are more sensitive during certain times of your period or find that certain positions feel more comfortable than others. Find what is most enjoyable and comfortable for you.
Feeling Confident And Fabulous In Everything You Do
No matter what you decide to do on your period, we want you to feel as chic and comfortable as you would on any other week of your cycle. Thats why were proud to provide super-stylish, leak-proof period pants that will help keep you secure and leave you feeling fresh all day!
Youll find your perfect fit right here on our website in a range of ultra-fashionable collections and gorgeously soft materials that we know will feel great against your skin. Even with the in-built tech that keeps them leak-free and stain-proof, theyre just like regular underwear theyll slip easily and discreetly underneath any kind of clothing and youll get to feel just as beautiful as you are when you wear them.
You May Like: Signs I M Getting My Period
Can I Go Down On My Partner During Their Period
Absolutely. Some people even enjoy the taste. That said, if you want to avoid blood, Matatas says thats easy to troubleshoot: Use a dental dam for going down on your partner or keep your focus on the clitoris instead of the vagina. If the idea of menstrual blood near your mouth still stresses you out, stick with other forms of stimulation. You can opt for intercourse, use your fingers to stimulate your partner’s clitoris, or take the opportunity to explore some butt stuff if everyones game.
Why Is Period Sex Taboo
Aside from potential discomfort, having sex on your period should not be classed differently to sex had at any other time of the month.
Whilst some people period shame, there is nothing dirty about having sex on your period. Menstrual fluid is a completely natural substance and does not contain anything harmful or irritating, provided both partners have had clear STI tests.
Some people are put off by the prospect of a rather messy encounter, but condoms can make the clean-up easier and are essential if you are not using another form of birth control.
If you are comfortable with it, having sex on your period can be safe, natural and enjoyable for both partners.
Don’t Miss: Dating Sites With Free Trial Period
Remove Your Feminine Product Before Period Sex
Whether you’re wearing a menstrual cup or a tampon, make sure to remove it. It’s best to remove your feminine product before starting anything so you don’t risk forgetting.
If you’re wearing a menstrual disc, you can wear it while having sex during your period. But make sure to empty it immediately before intercourse. If you don’t, you risk creating an even bigger mess than if you weren’t wearing anything at all. Not great.
Can You Get Pregnant
If you arent actively trying to conceive, using protection is a good idea, no matter what part of your menstrual cycle youre in. Your odds of conceiving are lower during your period, but its still possible to become pregnant at this time.
Youre most likely to get pregnant during ovulation, which happens about 14 days before your period starts. Yet every womans cycle length is different, and your cycle length can change monthly. If you have a short menstrual cycle, your risk of getting pregnant during your period is higher.
Also consider that sperm can stay alive in your body for up to seven days. So, if you have a 22-day cycle and you ovulate soon after getting your period, theres a chance youll be releasing an egg while sperm are still in your reproductive tract.
Also Check: Light Pink Blood When I Wipe But No Period
The Truth About Period Sex
The idea that period sex is dirty or unclean when compared to other sex is simply not true. All sex can involve different types of fluids and excretionsâarousal fluid , ejaculate , sweat, sometimes urine, and even fecal matter âso menstrual blood is not a reason to avoid intercourse unless itâs your personal preference.
Do you notice increased arousal during your period? Track your sex drive and bleeding in Clue.
You Can Be More Susceptible To Stis If You Have Intercourse On Your Period
Period sex can make you more susceptible to STIs, especially bloodborne pathogens like HIV. Though its important to point out that having sex with someone on their period does not cause HIV, but if your partner is HIV positive and not taking antiretroviral therapy medication, then your chances of contracting HIV from them is higher during period sex. Hepatitis is also easier to contract during period sex.
During menses, the cervix is more open, which also makes it easier for certain pathogens to reach the cervix. For example, normal bacterial infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea can turn into something more serious like pelvic inflammatory disease once they reach the cervix.
Lastly, Mary L. Rosser, MD, PhD, gynecologist at Columbia University in New York City revealed to Health.com that the vaginas normal acidic pH helps prevent the movement of certain STIs, but during menses the vagina is more alkaline and less adept at warding off bacteria.
As always, use condoms as you would in any other scenario.
You May Like: Pregnancy Test 3 Days Before Period
Can You Have Sex During Your Period
During your reproductive years, youll get a menstrual period about once a month. Unless youre especially squeamish, theres no need to avoid sexual activity during your period. Though period sex can be a bit messy, it is safe. And, having sex when youre menstruating can actually offer a few advantages, including relief from menstrual cramps.
Read on to learn more about sex during your period.
Having sex during your period has a few upsides:
Vaginal Dryness Has Caused Tearing
If you’re not wet enough during sex, there’s a chance you might bleedall that friction from penetration can tear sensitive vaginal tissues, says Dr. Gersh. “Your doctor can talk to you about options that include lubricants, moisturizers, and vaginal estrogen,” says Dr. Mahnert, depending on the cause of the dryness.
But make sure to talk to your doctor instead of self-diagnosing and treating it on your own. “In general, women should steer away from the feminine hygiene aisle at the drugstore because those products can make symptoms worse,” adds Dr. Mahnert. Plus, that dryness could be related to an underlying issue, like your hormonal birth control.
Also Check: Can You Get Your Period On Birth Control
Related: What’s That On Your Hoo
Uterine fibroids are small, non-cancerous growths inside the uterus. And while they may sound scary, theyre actually much more common than youd think. One study from the Birmingham Womens Hospital found that 70 percent of women will have at least one before the time they reach 50and one of the main symptoms of uterine fibroids is heavy bleeding, sometimes with blood clots or bleeding in between periods. It can be an issue that in some cases can incapacitate a woman for a couple of times a year, says Wysocki. And anything that incapacitates a woman from carrying out her regular functioning should be looked into. Sometimes the solution can be simple as going on birth control, getting an IUD, or taking another form of non-contraceptive medication.
Get the latest health, weight loss, fitness, and sex intel delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for our “Daily Dose” newsletter.
According to the Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Foundation, up to 10 percent of women have PCOS and approximately 50 percent of those women dont even realize they have it. Women with PCOS can get a cluster of cysts on their ovaries that could lead to heavier periods. According to Wysocki, ovulation, which is irregular for women with PCOS, triggers the conditions for the lining of the uterus to shed. If that trigger is absent, the uterine lining continues to thicken and later causes much bloodier periods.