Sex During Menstruation: Myths and Realities
Sex during menstruation is a subject that invites many questions, but the answers can be obscured by myths and taboos that often defy logic. This article aims to address these concerns by addressing the safety and risks involved in period sex.
Is it Safe to Have Sex During Menstruation?
Yes, it is generally safe to have sex during menstruation. However, there are certain risks you must consider, such as the risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
While menstrual sex can be messy, it can also alleviate menstrual cramps. However, the risks associated with regular sex remain the same during menstruation, and you must take adequate precautions to protect yourself from STIs and unwanted pregnancy.
Practicing safe sex practices before, during, and after your menstrual period can significantly reduce the risk of infection. However, hormonal changes during menstruation can elevate the risk of yeast infections, even though they can occur at any time.
Can You Get Pregnant During Menstruation?
It is essential to note that menstruation does not provide immunity against pregnancy. During menstruation, a woman's average menstrual cycle is 28 days, with days 8 to 19 being the most fertile. At this time, a woman's egg travels from the ovary to the fallopian tube, which can lead to pregnancy when fertilized by a sperm.
The egg remains active for 24 hours in the fallopian tube, while the sperm can survive for up to five days in the reproductive system. Therefore, there is a high risk of pregnancy during menstruation, despite the period being considered a less fertile time. This risk is further intensified by factors such as changes in menstrual cycles due to hormonal changes, eating disorders, weight fluctuations, breastfeeding, and other factors that can disrupt cycle regularity.
Therefore, it is crucial to use contraceptives or birth control to prevent pregnancy, regardless of where you are in your menstrual cycle, unless you are with a same-sex partner.
What Are the Benefits of Sex During Menstruation?
1. Relieves Menstrual Cramps
When your uterus contracts to release its lining, menstrual cramps occur. However, when you orgasm, the muscles in your uterus also contract and release, which counteracts the menstrual cramps and provides some relief. Sexual activity also releases endorphins, which can make you feel better and take your mind off of the menstrual cramps.
2. Increases Sex Drive and Libido
Libido is unpredictable during the menstrual cycle due to hormonal fluctuations. Some people with vulvas report feeling the most turned on during ovulation, while others say they feel the most turned on during menstruation. If you have an increased sex drive during menstruation, there's nothing wrong with seeking release.
3. Relieves Headaches and Body Aches
Most people with vulvas experience migraine headaches during their menstrual period. Anecdotal evidence suggests that having sex during menstruation can significantly relieve migraines, headaches, and body aches. However, some people also avoid sex due to migraines. If you have a headache and feel sexual, go ahead and see if it helps.
4. Reduces Period Length
Sex can push out the contents of the uterus faster through muscle contractions caused by orgasms. This may cause a heavier flow if you have sex during menstruation, but it may also help you get through your period faster.
5. Your Body's Natural Lubrication
Your body produces natural lubrication during menstruation, so there is no need for external lubrication. If you're not squeamish about blood, sex during menstruation can be enjoyable. However, it's a personal opinion, and you should do whatever makes you feel comfortable.
Are There Any Side Effects of Period Sex?
Most concerns about period sex are related to the potential mess. Blood may get on you, your partner, or your sheets. However, using towels or having sex in the shower can easily remedy this. Some people may also experience self-consciousness and anxiety during period sex. If you're uncomfortable with period sex, it's okay not to engage in it. However, there is nothing inherently wrong or shameful about period sex.
What If I Want an Orgasm Without a Sexual Partner?
If you have an increased libido and want orgasmic release without a partner, sex toys are an excellent option. There is a wide range of sex toys to choose from, including dildos, clitoral vibrators, and clitoral suckers. Choose the option that makes you most comfortable.
Clitoral suckers are ideal for those who want to induce deep, resonant orgasms without direct stimulation. These suckers use sonic pulses to indirectly stimulate the entire clitoral structure without the potential self-consciousness and anxiety.
Overall, sex during menstruation carries the same risks as sex at any other time. However, it also offers numerous benefits, and some say that it genuinely feels great. The decision is up to you - listen to your body and do what feels right.
