Period Sex Is More Popular Than Ever
Bodies are messy and it’s time we embrace it.
Couples everywhere are finding creative and body-positive ways to show their love — whether or not their partner is menstruating. Menstrual cups can make having sex during your period all that much easier.
Though you cannot have penetrative intercourse with a cup in, simply take your cup out before and put it back in afterward. Or you can wear your EverCup if penetration isnt involved.
Period Sex As A Pain Reliever
If you experience symptoms such as cramping, feelings of sadness, or depression during your period, having sex at this time may be beneficial. Dr. Streicher says that because orgasms release endorphins feel-good hormones like oxytocin and dopamine in theory they could also decrease some period symptoms. Theres no harm in trying, she says.
Women who have endometriosis, on the other hand, may experience more pain and other symptoms when they have their period, as well as pain that occurs with sexual activity or . However, treatments are available, and sex doesnt have to hurt. Talk to your doctor as soon as possible the earlier you speak up, the sooner you can feel better and enjoy sex again.
Stds Are Still A Possibility
Rumor has it that STD transmission could increase during menstruation, potentially because your cervix is slightly open at this time to let blood out. Dr. Streicher explains that, in theory, since STDs like gonorrhea and chlamydia are ascending infections, anything that helps them travel up into the uterus could increase the possibility of transmissionagain, in theory. There isnt enough research out there to back this idea up yet.
No matter what, its crucial to remember that just because there isnt necessarily an increased risk doesnt mean that theres no risk. Stick to your typical STD prevention regimen during period sexmeaning you should use a condom if you or your partner havent been tested.
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When Should I See A Doctor About Vaginal Bleeding
It is very common to bleed occasionally between your periods, but if it happens more than once or twice, you should see your doctor. You should make an appointment with your doctor right away if:
- your periods seem too heavy
- you are older than 45 years and experiencing vaginal bleeding between periods
- you bleed after having sex
- you feel unwell, sick or dizzy because of your period
- you have an unusual vaginal discharge along with your period
- you have a fever or experience pain with your period
- there is a chance you could be pregnant
- you are post menopausal
If are worried about talking about womens health or describing your periods, consulting a female doctor in your age group may help you feel more comfortable. It may help to bear in mind that periods are a part of all womens lives, and that vaginal bleeding is a concern that affects most women at some point in their life.
The Healthdirect question builder webpage can help you plan out what you want to discuss with your doctor.
How To Delay Your Period
You can delay your period with certain forms of hormonal birth control. But thats about all that will work.
Dont be fooled into thinking home remedies like drinking apple cider vinegar or lemon juice every day will help. None of these DIY home remedies will delay your period, says Sherry Ross, MD, an OB-GYN with her own private practice.
Therefore, if youve just noticed that you have a big day coming up that happens to fall on the same day as your period, here are two forms of hormonal medication that may help you.
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Related information
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Emotional & Lifestyle Factors That Cause Amenorrhea
- Extreme stress: Extreme stress can affect the functioning of the hypothalamus which is a part of your brain responsible for hormone regulation. In non-medical terms, stress can send your menstrual cycle haywire. Once your level of stress decreases, periods should return to normal.
- Extreme exercise: Female athletes can often experience interrupted menstrual cycles. This is often due to energy deficiency which results from not taking in enough calories to balance the exercise output. This causes hormone imbalance and can lead to temporary period loss, low bone mineral density, and increased risk of bone fractures and/or breaks.
- Extreme weight loss: Women who have significant weight loss especially within a short period of time or are severely underweight as per guidelines may experience hormonal changes that interrupt or halt ovulation and menstrual blood flow.
Exercise The Right Way
Exercising regularly can help reduce the intensity of cramps and other symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, says Ross. Exercise may even reduce the frequency or length of your period.
However, it’s also important to note that exercising too much or suddenly starting an intense new exercise routine can cause your period to stop or become more irregular.
Some studies show that aerobic exercise can help reduce menstrual pain in some women. A few examples of aerobic exercise include:
Other studies have found that low-intensity exercise like stretching and yoga can help reduce menstrual pain.
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Dont Forget To Take Your Tampon Out
Astroglide X, Premium Waterproof Silicone Personal Lubricant
Astroglide X, Premium Waterproof Silicone Personal Lubricant
If youre squeamish about having sex while youre bleeding, there are several options for minimizing the flow. One possibility, suggests Dr. Streicher, is to put in a tampon before you have sex to soak up some of the blood. Depending on how heavy your period is, removing the tampon before having sex could result in vaginal dryness so have a lubricant handy if youre trying this route.
And while it may seem obvious, dont forget to remove the tampon before you have sex, since this can up your risk for infection, says Dr. Hechtman. Toxic shock syndrome is the most serious risk, she says, but a foul-smelling vaginal discharge could also result. Dr. Hechtman recommends using a female condom, menstrual cup, or diaphragm as a safe way to inhibit the blood flow during sex.
Who Can Take Norethisterone
- are allergic to norethisterone or any other ingredients in the tablets
- are pregnant or think you might be
- have or have had unexplained vaginal bleeding
- have issues with blood clots
- have or have had a heart attack or angina
- have liver problems
- have had Issues in pregnancy with jaundice or an itchy rash known as pemphigoid gestationis
- have ever had severe generalised itching all over your body known as pruritus
- have a condition called porphyria
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Think Of Period Fluids As Extra Lube
Lube makes sex better, end of story. Buying lube simply means you’re an adult who understands sex feels better slippery. However, along with usual vaginal wetness, your period fluids can act as an added bonus. “It’s extra lubrication, which can be a fantastic experience,” says sex therapist Holly Richmond. It’s not gross it’s natural. Menstrual “blood” is more than just blood it’s thickened endometrial cells married with blood from uterine arteries. It’s actually a pretty great consistency for sex.
Why Are Period Cramps Painful
Dysmenorrhea is thought to be caused by compounds in the body known as prostaglandins. Before menstruation starts each month, the level of prostaglandins in the lining of the uterus increases.
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Your prostaglandin level is its highest on the first day of your menstrual period, which is why menstrual pain is usually worse then. As your period progresses and the lining of the uterus is shed, your prostaglandin level decreases and pain gets better, ACOG states.
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Period Sex Could Shorten How Many Days You Bleed
Your period lasts as long as it takes to shed the uterine lining , but period sex could help decrease the length.
In the same way that orgasms could help cramps by stimulating uterine muscle contractions, climaxing could also speed up the shedding process. Theres no real scientific data on this benefit, but anecdotally people report this as a positive to period sex, so it may be worth trying and tracking whats true for you.
Curl Up With A Heating Pad To Ease Period Cramps
The uterus is a muscle, so anything that helps relax muscles, like applying heat, can be beneficial, Thielen says.
Indeed, research published in Evidence-Based Nursing found that topically applied heat was just as effective as ibuprofen for period cramps. Over the two study days, the women used heat alone, heat plus ibuprofen, ibuprofen alone, or a placebo. The best results were in the heat plus ibuprofen group adding heat led to faster improvements.
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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.
Can You Have Sex On Your Period
The short answer is yes, you can absolutely have sex on your period. Theres nothing scary about menstrual blood, and its just as safe for you and your partner to get it on when you are bleeding as it is when you arent.
Like anything with sex, whether you choose to have sex while on your period depends on personal preference. If you want to do it and you and your partner are on board, go for it! But its also okay if youre not feeling it. Just know that it isnt dangerous for your body as many of us have been told.
Sure, it can be a bit messier than sex during other times of the month, but if you plan ahead by putting down towels on the bed , it doesnt have to be very different. And, of course, practicing safe sex by using a condom continues to be essential, especially since you are at a slightly higher risk for sexually transmitted infections .
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Why Do Periods Stop In The Water
It may not flow as much, but it doesn’t actually stop Although it may seem like it, your period doesn’t really stop while you’re in the water. Instead, you might be experiencing a reduction in flow due to the water pressure. Your period is still happening it’s just not flowing out of your body at the same rate.
Consume Lots Of Vitamin C
Taking a diet that is rich in vitamin C will help in reducing the amounts of progesterone hormone present in the body. When this occurs, it assists in breaking down uterine lining much faster, which translates to a reduced length of your menstrual cycle.
The home remedy can also be used in easing discomforts associated with the menstruation.
Vitamin C has also been known to assist your body to absorb more iron, as well as strengthen your blood vessels.
- You have to try and incorporate more foods that are rich in vitamin C into your diet. Some of the best vitamin C sources include papayas, lemons, peas, oranges, tomatoes, bell peppers, grapefruits, dark leafy greens, berries, broccoli, and kiwi.
- Vitamin C may also be taken as a supplement, but this should only occur after consultations with your primary health care provider. Overdosing on vitamin C supplements may lead to side effects like insomnia, stomach upsets, and diarrhea.
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Period Sex Tips: Guide To Sex During Your Period
Ask anyone with a cycle: period sex or not knowing how to have it can be stressful if you’re not prepared. Can sex during a period get messy? Yup. Can it be an amazing and trust-building experience for you and your partner? Absolutely.
Before you run off and stain your new white sheets, here are a few things you should know about sex on your period. Let’s start with #1: Have fun, and always check in with your partner.
Disclaimer: This article is not medical advice. It was written for informational purposes. The views expressed in it are not necessarily those of Casco Cup.
When To Start Birth Control: The Takeaway
Whether youre just starting to have sex, have had a baby, or want to change the contraceptive method youre using, there is a birth control option that will fit your lifestyle. Deciding which contraceptive is right for you is a personal choice, and exploring the different benefits and side effects is the best way to help you make a decision about which you should use.
If you have any questions or concerns, dont be afraid to ask your healthcare provider. Theyre there to guide you.
References
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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:
How Long Can You Stop Your Period For
You can technically stop your period for as long as you want or need to, using a variety of birth control methods. However, you should consult with a physician regarding the safety of skipping menstruation for an extended period of time. It may or may not be safe depending on each individual person.
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Period Sex: 5 Takeaways For Beginners
Centuries of shaming women shouldn’t stop you from enjoying your relationship and your body when you want to. With communication and preparation, period sex can even be better than your normal routine.
Missionary With Butterfly Legs
You can’t go wrong with the missionary position it’s a classic for a reason. You can also try it with your legs in a butterfly yoga pose during your period for even more comfort. It will open up your hips a little bit and feel so lovely. Your partner can also be on top of you while playing with a vibrator or any other toy you enjoy.
Pro tip: A pillow placed underneath your hips will increase the likelihood that your internal hot spots will get targeted during Missionary which may be helpful in managing your mensural cramps.
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How To End Your Period
This article was co-authored by Rebecca Levy-Gantt, MPT, DO. Dr. Rebecca Levy-Gantt is a board certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist running a private practice based in Napa, California. Dr. Levy-Gantt specializes in menopause, peri-menopause and hormonal management, including bio-Identical and compounded hormone treatments and alternative treatments. She is also a Nationally Certified Menopause Practitioner and is on the national listing of physicians who specialize in menopausal management. She received a Masters of Physical Therapy from Boston University and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine.There are 14 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 650,850 times.
If youre like most people who get periods, you may have thought about trying to stop or delay your period from time to time. Maybe you have a vacation coming up, or your period is just happening at an inconvenient time. You can try a few home treatments to attempt to stop your period. However, using birth control is a more effective way to control your periods. If youre having excessively heavy or long periods, its important to talk to your doctor about the issue, as they may be able to offer relief.
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When Do Periods Stop
Your periods will continue until you reach the menopause, which usually happens when you are in your late 40s to mid-50s. In the UK the average age of menopause is 51.
Your periods may start to become less frequent over a few months or years before stopping altogether. In some cases they can stop suddenly.
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I Already Had Sex On My Period Now Im Worried I Might Be Pregnant
If you already had penile-vaginal sex without contraception and you dont want to get pregnant, consider Emergency Contraception . Many of these are available at most pharmacies over the counter and are pretty darn effective for up to 5 days after unprotected sex. There are more reliable methods of contraception than Emergency Contraception. We encourage you to speak with your pharmacist or medical provider about contraception options that might work for you.