Less Need For Vaginal Lubrication
Youre less likely to need lubricants if you engage in intercourse during menstruation, because menstrual discharge tends to provide enough lubrication. If you do need a lubricant, then water-based lubricants are widely available and safe both for sex and for condoms, says ob/gyn James Simon, MD, a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the George Washington University School of Medicine in Washington, D.C. Silicone and hybrid lubricants that are water-based and silicone-based are likewise safe for both sex and condoms. Oil-based lubricants, especially mineral oil-based lubricants, can deteriorate condoms increasing the risk of breakage and are not recommended with latex condoms, he says.
Figure Out Which Sex Positions Work For You
You are your own person. The sex positions that work for you during your period might not work for the person sitting across the room. Dig into which ones work for you and your comfort level, which can also have a lot to do with where you are in your cycle. Stockwell recommends missionary style for a couple trying period sex for the first time. This way “the experience can be fully enjoyed” by both parties. Relaxation is key to sexual pleasure after all.
The stigma surrounding sex during your period is disappearing. It’s becoming more and more mainstream to honor the menstrual cycle and treat it like the natural occurrence that it is. Embracing period sex is another example of the ways we’re opening ourselves up to the true power of sexual wellness.
Want to turn your passion for wellbeing into a fulfilling career? Become a Certified Health Coach! Learn more here.
Sexual Arousal During Your Period
You may feel more sexually aroused and sensitive during this time of the month because of the changes in your hormone levels. Some women experience an increased feeling of congestion in the pelvic area, which can also ramp up your sex drive. But for some women, this extra sensitivity may make it uncomfortable to have sex during this time. Remember that theres nothing shameful or dirty about having your period its totally natural, and there’s nothing wrong with having sex during that time of the month. The bottom line is to make sure that both you and your partner are comfortable with the situation. Dont assume anything, Dr. Simon says. Open questions with honest answers beforehand are paramount.
Read Also: Usaa Grace Period Auto Insurance
And Your Partner Might Too
Women shouldnt assume their partner will be grossed out by their period. In fact, its often the person whos menstruating who puts a stop to sex, not her other half, Ford says. Every couple is different, and some people will be more open to it than others. If youre curious what your partner might think, however, dont spring it on him or her in the heat of the momentbring it up before things get hot and heavy. Good communication can lead to great sex at any time during the month, she says.
Tips On Having Sex During Your Period
Here are a few tips to make period sex a more comfortable and less messy experience:
- Be open and honest with your partner. Tell them how you feel about having sex during your period, and ask how they feel about it. If either of you is hesitant, talk about the reasons behind the discomfort.
- If you have a tampon in, remove it before you start fooling around.
- Spread a dark-colored towel on the bed to catch any blood leaks. Or, have sex in the shower or bath to avoid the mess entirely.
- Keep a wet washcloth or wet wipes by the bed to clean up afterward.
- Have your partner wear a latex condom. It will protect against pregnancy and STIs.
- If your usual sexual position is uncomfortable, try something different. For example, you may want to try lying on your side with your partner behind you.
Read Also: 90 Day Probationary Period Form
Other Ways To Avoid Pregnancy
1. For Men
- Condom: Usually made from latex , condoms prevent pregnancy by blocking the passage of sperm. It is a barrier method of contraception, and can only be used once. Condoms, when used with a spermicide, are the most effective method for reducing the risk of genital lesions, infectious genital discharges, and from the viruses that cause AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases .
- Male sterilization: Also known as vasectomy, its a surgical procedure in which the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles are cut. The semen will no longer contain sperm, so conception cannot occur. Although the testicles continue to produce sperm, they eventually die and are absorbed by the body. However, the ability to get an erection and ejaculation does not disappear.
2. For Women
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 Miss: 90 Day Employment Probationary Period Template
Get It On When You’re Horny
Some tend to find their libidos are highest at around the time they ovulate, while some say they notice heightened arousal during their periods . If you fall into the “gotta have it” camp while menstruating, rad, get it on. Concerned your partner won’t be into it? Ask them. But take it from someone who has had plenty of sex with people of all genders: People are generally pretty excited about an opportunity to get laid, period or no period.
In fact, your period could very well turn them on. There’s something primal about the blood: Things are messy to start with, which can allow all parties to tap into their animalistic nature. To avoid mess, you can simply put a towel underneath you and your partner. If you want to get a little fancy, you can even invest in a luxe “sex blanket” designed to absorb liquids Liberator makes a great one. Shower sex is another good option for cleaning up while you get it on.
How To Have Sex On Your Period
So you know it’s OK but you aren’t sure where to begin? We were once there, too. Remember: there is no wrong way as long as you’re being safe, which means using prevention for STIs and birth control, and in a consenting situation. There are, however, a few ways to make period sex easier and less stressful. Worrying is a great way to ruin a romantic evening.
Recommended Reading: Usaa Grace Period Auto Insurance New Car
What Are The Benefits Of Having Period Sex
One of the most obvious benefits of period sex is increased pleasure. When you have your period, your hormones are in overdrive, which means you might find it even easier to orgasm from touch or penetration, says Emily Morse, sex therapist and host of the Sex With Emily podcast.
Orgasm can also help ease any period cramps. Orgasm will release feel-good chemicals like oxytocin, dopamine, and endorphinsour bodys natural painkillersthat can ease the pain of menstrual cramps and bloating, says Chavez. Plus, some women find period sex to be more enjoyable overall. One of the great things about period sex is that you don’t need any lube because youre already incredibly wet, which means some positions are actually easier for some women to be in, says Costa. Some experts suggest sticking to one position so as not to create a mess, but I say go for it,” she adds.
There’s also some evidence that having sex on your period can shorten it. With every orgasm that shoots oxytocin into your body to alleviate cramps, the contraction that accompanies the orgasm helps to flush out the uterine lining faster than if left to its own devices. This isnt to suggest that one romp will lead to your period being gone by the morning, but it will shorten it enough that you might notice a difference.
Is It Ok To Have Sex While You Have Your Period
Is it OK and normal to have sex while you have your period? Kathleen*
It all depends on the couple and how they feel about having sex when a girl has her period. Some girls don’t like the idea of having sex during a period. Some see it as a natural monthly break in the action. Others are perfectly comfortable with it.
However you feel, just be sure to talk it over with your partner beforehand to make sure you’re on the same page.
If a girl has sex with a guy during her period, she can still get pregnant. And guys and girls also can get STDs during this time. In fact, having sex when a girl has her period can make it even easier to spread some STDs. So always use a condom every time you have sex.
*Names have been changed to protect user privacy.
You May Like: Usaa Auto Loan Grace Period
You Can Absolutely Get Pregnant During Period Sex
For far too long, a rumor circulated that you couldn’t get pregnant during your period. Because of this, some people who used condoms as their only source of birth control would skip the latex and go bareback while their partner was menstruating.
Technically, if you break down a typical 28-day menstrual cycle where ovulation happens 14 days before the period starts it would seem that intercourse during your period is a safe zone since ovulation is when pregnancy is possible. However, the reality is that no cycle is exact. In fact, some cycles can be 28-days for months or even years, then suddenly go rogue.
“Women can have irregular periods and spotting at various times of the month,” says Dr. Loanzon. For example, you can have spotting during ovulation, which you may confuse for a period. “Sperm also resides in the vaginal canal up to 72 hours after ejaculation, so it is important to consider contraception even during period sex.”
So, the short answer to “Can you have sex on your period and become pregnant?” is yes.
“Unless you’re on a reliable birth control method like contraceptive pills, patch, ring, Depo injection, Nexplanon rod, or IUD, the risk of pregnancy may still be possible if you have sex during your period,” says Dr. Loanzon.
It’s All About Lubrication
There is a reason why many people, especially the older you get, enjoy a little lube in the bedroom. Period sex can provide this without the extra cost or potential chemicals. Keep in mind that there’s a lot more in menstrual fluid than just blood: There are the cells that line the endometrium, which make a great all-natural lubricant.
You May Like: Usaa New Car Grace Period
You Might Want To Be Picky About Positions
Now onto exactly how to have sex when on your period. Depending on your and your partner’s tolerance for blood, you may want to be a little picky about which sex positions you use during your period.
Missionary with your legs up and spooning sex positions both work well because they require little movement on your end, which can help limit how much blood joins the party. You can also make good use of blindfolds if one of you is squeamish and just can’t bear to see the blood.
Naturally, shower sex is a great option, as long as you keep in mind that menstrual blood can be fairly slippery, adding to a situation that’s already a bit precarious due to soap and water. Then, of course, if you want to avoid any possibility of blood, anal sex is also an intercourse position worth considering.
Myths And Misconceptions About Period Sex
A common misconception about period sex is that you canât or should not have sex during your period. You can have sex while on your period but there are some risks to be aware of.
Risk of Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Unprotected sex increases the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases . Some STDs, such as human immunodeficiency virus , can be passed on more easily during period sex.
To avoid this risk, you can use the barrier method of contraception. That means placing a type of wall in between you and your reproductive organs to prevent skin-to-skin contact. Examples of contraceptives appropriate for this include male condoms, female condoms, and dental dams, depending on the type of sex you are having.
Risk of Pregnancy
In addition to STDs, unprotected sex can also lead to pregnancy, even during your period. To prevent unwanted pregnancy, use birth control such as a condom, diaphragm, or intrauterine device or birth control pills. Talk to your doctor to determine what form of birth control is right for you.
Recommended Reading: Usaa Grace Period
Safe Period To Have Sex
Natural family planning or fertility awareness is sometimes the preferred method of many couples who dont want to use prescribed birth control measures to avoid pregnancy. The calculation method requires the awareness of the changes during the menstrual cycle in order to determine a safe period to have sex. For the calculation method to be effective, women need to understand the three stages of the menstrual cycle, and fully understand who can or cannot use this method.
What You Can Get Out Of It
Some womens sex drive actually goes up during their period, which can bring even more pleasure during intercourse. Menstrual blood serves as an additional natural lubricant, so there will be less friction and less scratching. On top of all that, making love releases endorphins, which have an analgesic capacity and provide a feeling of well-being or even euphoria. Lets trade pain for pleasure?
Another advantage for some women is that making love during menstruation helps to shorten the cycle time. When a woman reaches orgasm, contractions occur and heavy bleeding can occur due to increased endometrial loss. Once the endometrium has completely disintegrated, there is no more blood to lose!
Don’t Miss: Usaa Insurance Payment Grace Period
Communicate With Your Partner
Start a dialogue with your partner about how they feel about period sex, any concerns they might have, and also what might excite them about it. Wiggins recommends a simple question like “What forms of intimacy are OK?” to get a foundation started. Once you start having period sex, also make sure to check in during and after the experience to make sure both parties are feeling good about it.
Can You Get Pregnant If You Have Sex On Your Period
The short answer is: yes.
You can get pregnant if you have sex on your period. Your fertile windowâthe time in your cycle when you are most likely to become pregnantâdepends on various environmental and physiological factors. Conception can occur if you have unprotected sex during your period.
But, research has found the probability of being in your fertile window on the first couple of days of your period is close to zero, and may rise to about 2% on day four .
People with predictable, typical-length menstrual cycles are less likely to be in their fertile window during or right after their period, while people with short or unpredictable cycles are more likely to be in their fertile window during menstruation . The fertile window is the days in your cycle when pregnancy is most likely to occur. It includes the days leading up to, including, and immediately after ovulation . If you ovulate early in your cycle, which is more likely as you age, your fertile window can overlap with your period . If you have unprotected sex during your period when it overlaps with your potential ovulation days, then pregnancy can occur.
Some people experience bleeding outside of their period. Be aware of ovulation spottingâand other causes of spottingâso you donât mistake it for a period while having unprotected sex. If you donât want to become pregnant, use a condom or other form of birth control every time you have sex.
Don’t Miss: Usaa New Car Insurance Grace Period