Things You Can Do On Your Period That You Probably Didnt Think You Could
For some including myself, that time of the month can be more than just a small nuisance. It can be a huge inconvenience, especially when you have something important to do where you would prefer that Aunt Flo not accompany you to your destination. While the shame and stigma towards menstruation are diminishing quickly with the normalization of the female body on social media, it may not necessarily help with getting rid of some of the reservations we still might have about our bodies or any negative attitudes you may have learned from others and internalized them. I decided to write this piece to be a resource to others who hold themselves back from pleasure and normal activities when Aunt Flo is in town. In an effort to put an end to the negative connotations associated with Aunt Flo, here are 5 Things You Didnt Know You Can Do On Your Period.
Have Sex
Go Swimming
Get a Wax
Final Thoughts
Struggling To Deal With Cramps Here Are Some Surefire Ways To Help You Kick Those Monthly Period Pains To The Curb
For most of us, our monthly menstruation is an unwelcome guest that often brings along with it a whole slew of other issues, from PMS to body aches, breakouts, and the dreaded cramps.
Why do period pains happen?
Sexual wellness educator Andrea Tan explains, During the period, the uterus contracts spasmodically to expel the mucous membrane that was formed for a possible pregnancy. This alone can cause pain. The contractions of the uterus are also controlled by the hormone prostaglandins. This hormone is a pain messenger and is also involved in inflammation, for example. The higher the prostaglandin level in a persons body, the stronger the period pain can be.
If youre looking for ways to ease your cramps , weve got a handy round-up below that could aid in offering some relief. But of course, if youre facing severe pelvic pain, you should always consult a doctor. Endometriosis, for instance, is a body condition in which tissue that normally lines the inside of your uterus the endometrium grows outside of it, in places like the fallopian tube or ovaries.
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Participants reported a reduction in pain intensity from an average of 6.7 points to 5.4 points after the testing phase. The frequency of period pain decreased as well, from an average of 7.4 points to 4.6 after three months of menstrubation .
How does this work?
Think period pains and hot water bottles often spring to mind. Another age-old trick to tackle cramps is using heat.
How Does It Offer Relief From Cramps
These hormones not only relieve period cramps but also other types of pain that a woman experiences during her menstrual cycle. For example, back pain and leg pain seems to settle after masturbating.
However, women must understand that this trick is not a universal solution. It is possible that a few women might not find relief after masturbation. In a case of unpleasant or unbearable menstrual pain, one must always consult a gynaecologist.
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You Can Give Your Heart A Bit Of A Workout If You Really Get Active
To be clear, were not saying masturbation is enough of a workout that it can replace your usual exercise sessions. But remember how we talked about the sexual response cycle, and specifically how it involves an increase in your heart and breathing rate? It stands to reason that if you have a really long, intense bout of masturbation, you may get your heart rate up significantly enough to give it a workout.
Unfortunately, science hasnt yet delivered a final verdict on how much of a heart workout masturbation, sex, and orgasms really offer. But according to the experts, over time masturbation may be able to at least slightly contribute to improved cardiovascular health and endurance. The power this depends on how vigorously a woman is masturbating, Dr. Trubow says. If she can sustain her heart rate and work up a sweat, then its great for cardiovascular health!
Why Do People Experience Period Pain
To understand how masturbation can help to relieve period pain, its important to understand the reason people experience cramps in the first place.
Period pains are very common and very normal, says Welsh. During your period, your womb is contracting to help shed its lining. When the muscular wall of your womb is contracting, the blood vessels supplying the muscles are compressed, meaning oxygen cannot get to them, causing the tissues to release hormones that cause pain and inflammation.
So why do certain people get worse period pains than others? Some people who have a build-up of these prostaglandin hormones experience more severe period pains, Welsh explains, adding: There are also some medical problems that can cause more severe period pains, such as endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease and fibroids. Certain contraceptives can also make period pains worse, such as the copper intrauterine device .
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Is External Fingering Safe
Like any other sexual practice, the period is not an impediment to enjoyment, says Mia.
The only thing that matters is if you want to finger yourself. If you do, then go ahead!
She says the vulva doesnt change when we are menstruating, either.
In fact, many women say they feel even more pleasure during this time. Your body is totally capable of receiving pleasure and orgasms during any time of the month.
Masturbation when menstruating is entirely natural, regardless of the societal taboo.
It is safe and pleasurable but, as with any time that you enjoy intimate touch, before you touch your clit you should have clean hands.
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Is Period Masturbation Messy
Were not going to lie masturbation during your period could be a messy affair. Then again, it could also be absolutely fine. It all depends on your individual flow and how many days you are into your period. Some may experience only some light spotting, some may unleash a tidal wave of blood. Kidding of course! Masturbating isnt going to produce more blood, its only going to speed up the release of the blood you are already bleeding, so dont stress about it. If you have a heavy flow and you are worried about bleeding onto bed sheets or furniture, you may want to lay down a towel just to be safe. Another option is masturbating in the shower or bath for a nice, easy clean up.
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The Answer Is: Yes Yes Yes
Talking about sexual desire during your period is even more controversial. But the belief that any sexual behavior should be avoided has no foundation. Masturbating while on your period is as healthy and recommendable as while not on your period.
There is nothing dirty about your blood or period fluids, so don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.
In fact, masturbation is one of the best pleasures in life, and it’s free!
Once you try it, you won’t stop doing it. Contrary to all myths and taboos, masturbation brings many benefits, more than you think and in this article, we will explain some of them.
How Tight Your Pelvic Floor Is
Tight pelvic floor muscles can cramp and cause discomfort during any kind of sex.
These muscles can tense for a few reasons, from overuse and trauma to anxiety, stress, and reproductive conditions.
Since your pelvic floor acts as a hammock for the bladder, uterus, rectum, and other pelvic organs, you might also notice other symptoms, like constipation, trouble holding urine, and pelvic pain.
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Can Masturbating Help Relieve Period Pain
Probably the best news of all Mia says that orgasms during your period are super beneficial.
The contractions that are generated during the climax, as well as the endorphins released, can help reduce menstrual pain and even headaches, she says. Almost like a natural pain reliever.
In fact, masturbation further helps your body to combat stress and even reduce, if not relieve, pain.
In addition, more and more studies and research are concluding that masturbation and sexual stimulation benefit your overall health: alongside stress reduction, masturbating improves the immune system, helps to exercise the pelvic floor, and helps to improve sleep.
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Are There Any Risks
There are no health risks specific to masturbating while menstruating. However, as when masturbating at other times, a person should follow some basic hygiene practices.
For example, it is important to wash the hands before and after touching the genitals and to clean any sex toys after use.
If a person has vaginal intercourse during their period, they will still need to use birth control. It is possible to become pregnant after having unprotected sex while menstruating.
Additionally, a barrier method such as a condom is necessary to prevent STIs. During oral sex, dental dams can protect against STIs.
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Remember: You Can Still Get Pregnant
You cant get an STI or pregnant if youre masturbating.
While its less likely that youll get pregnant on your period, you still can, says Ross.
Play it safe and use a reliable birth control method even when youre bleeding unless you want to get pregnant, of course.
After period play is finished, be sure to clean yourself, your partner , and any toys, clothes, or bedding that were worn and used.
Hold Up How Does Masturbating Help Against Period Pain
While masturbating to relieve pain seems like a very fun idea indeed, how does this actually work?
“Orgasm triggers the release of feel good neurochemicals called endorphins, which can be the perfect remedy for those feeling flat.”
So, it’s not so much about the actual *act* of masturbating, but more so about the cute little chemical release that acts as a natural pain reliever/MVP.
But that’s not all! In addition to treating pain and improving your mood, masturbation can do a whole load of other Really Good Things.
“Masturbation is good for you! The study proved there are many benefits,” said Grace.
Not only can it improve your sleep and wellbeing, but it might also help give you relief from other aches and pains including “headaches, cramps, back pain and breast tenderness,” said Grace.
It was also found that masturbation meant there was “less need for rest and heat” during periods, and the participants experienced “less bloating in the abdominal area”, as well as “balanced mental restlessness”.
How good!
What’s more, Grace said her personal clients have reported that they feel an “increased connection and pleasure to their body/others, increased desire, and the simple fact that it feels good!”
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So How Does Masturbation Help With Period Pain
Andrea says: We know that masturbation can have positive effects on health and general well-being. Looking at the physical aspect alone after climax, the hormone dopamine is released, which activates an inner bliss. In this way, other physical processes tend to take a back seat, which in turn is similar to pain relief. At the same time, the metabolism and blood circulation are stimulated. Both counteract pain. Ultimately, when the muscles contract and release during masturbation, this creates a relaxing effect.
And yes, masturbation can take many forms. Even though the participants each received a sex toy for the purpose of the study, they were free to use other modes of masturbation anything that brought them pleasure.
Sexual Activityincluding Masturbationis Associated With Better Cognition As You Age
You might feel as though your brain and are two completely separate entities, but they may be more connected than you think. Some research shows that sexual activity, masturbation included, is linked with better cognition in aging adults.
For instance, a 2017 study in The Journals of Gerontology studied 73 people between the ages of 50 and 83 who participated in a range of sexual activities at varying frequencies. The study authors found that more-frequent sexual activity was associated with higher scores on cognitive tests that evaluated things like memory and verbal fluency.
These study results backed up a similar study from 2016, this one published in Age and Ageing. This earlier study was much larger, examining 6,833 adults from the ages of 50 to 89 who participated in various forms and frequencies of sexual activity, including masturbation. The study authors found that, overall, sexual activity was associated with a modest benefit in various aspects of cognitive function in older adults, specifically between sexual activity and memory recall in older women.
Experts arent yet sure why this connection may exist, but they posit that neurotransmitters like dopamine, which is involved in sexual activity, may offer a protective benefit for the brain.
None of this is to say that masturbation directly benefits your brain health, but the findings are pretty cool.
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How To Clean Blood Off Your Sex Toys
Cleaning sex toys is a lot less fun than using sex toys. Most sex toys should come with cleaning instructions when you buy them. Always refer to your toys instructions, but some basic sex toy cleaning tips include:
- Unplug your toys and remove batteries before cleaning.
- Wash silicone toys with anti-bacterial soap and warm water, boil them for 5 to 10 minutes, or pop them in the top rack of the dishwasher. Only submerge in water if they have no mechanics.
- Glass toys and hard plastic toys can be washed with anti-bacterial soap and water.
Remember to always clean your sex toys between partners.
Does Masturbation Help Relieve Period Cramps
Of course, masturbation might not work for everyone, and you should always talk to your health care provider if you experience unpleasant menstrual symptoms. They will be able to prescribe pain-relieving medications when needed.
I love that Flo allows me to keep track of my vaginal health in relation to the health of the rest of my body because your period is affected by how you live, so Im grateful Flo has this feature. I also love all the questions they ask related to the type of birth control you use , sexual activity, mood, exercise and sleep schedule. They really take YOUR BODY & YOUR NEEDS into consideration!
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Remove Your Tampon Before Penetration
Safety first, and remove that tamp before exploring your bits internally. And obvi, replace it with a fresh tampon once your self-love sesh is complete.
If a tampon is pushed too far into the vaginal canal, it wont necessarily cause damage to the vaginal wall. But it could still make the tampon difficult to retrieve for some folks. The same goes for period discs and menstrual cups.
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Put A Condom On Your Toys Or Keep Toy Cleansing Wipes Or Spray Nearby
Bringing your buzzy buddy into bed? Cover it with a condom or finger condom if its a small toy like a bullet vibrator for easy-peasy cleanup.
Or, keep a toy cleaner like the Babeland Toy Cleaner and a box of tissues on hand.
There is something really powerful and intimate about embracing the mess of period sex, says Luna. Ready to embrace the bodily fluid?
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How To Clean Period Blood Off Your Sheets And Towels
The top two things to remember when it comes to washing up period blood are:
There are several ways to remove period blood stains when washing your sheets or towels. These tips will work best for cotton.
- Fresh stains: Run them under cold water. They might wash right out.
- Stingier stains: Soak them in white vinegar, let them sit for 30 minutes, and then rinse them with cold water. Repeat as necessary.
- White sheets/towels: Soak in diluted chlorine bleach or non-chlorine bleach if traditional bleach isnt your thing.
- Colored sheets/towels: Wash with diluted non-chlorine bleach made of hydrogen peroxide. This is often labelled color safe bleach.
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Could Masturbating Cure My Pms And Cramps
Ive always suffered from pretty horrible periods.
Theyre heavy, painful and sometimes I get dizzy or sick. Its been this way since I was a teenager, and apparently, shouldnt be considered cause for concern. But it does take a toll on my life.
The two worst parts of my period are the hormone cloud that settles over me 4-5 days before it arrives, making me irrationally angry and tetchy and causing huge rows with my partner, and also the cramps.
Having the kind of period pains that feel like Satan is chewing on my uterus.
Rebecca Reid
This month, things were going to be different. If there was even a chance that masturbation could fix things, I was going to give it the old college try.
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Does Having Sex Delay My Period
Peer Answer: Sex can definitely affect your period because of all the hormones involved. I would check out what Dr. Molly has to say for this one.
This is not intended to be medical advice. Everybody is different so please make sure to consult your physician if youre having issues. Do not delay or refrain from seeking professional medical advice from your physician because of something you have read on this site.
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