can you have sex on your period?

During that time of the month, many people think that they have to avoid sex for a number of reasons. However, if you're menstruating and you're in the mood, we're here to tell you that you can have all the sex you want and there is no reason to avoid it, if you don't want to! Period sex can be fun, pleasurable, and even benefit you during your cycle. So, read on as we eliminate the stigma of period sex and reveal its benefits, period sex tips, and the best products for intimacy during your menstrual cycle. 

Key Takeaways (TL;DR) Period Sex 101 

• Contrary to what some believe, period sex is not bad for you and it can be a great way to relieve some discomfort while menstruating. 
• If you are looking to try it, make sure that both you and your partner consent before engaging in sexual activity while on your period. It is important to discuss boundaries, safer sex methods, and consent prior to any sexual encounter. 
• There are many ways to make period sex more comfortable, both physically and mentally, if it is something that you are not used to. 
• Condoms are one of the best ways to make period sex comfortable, pleasurable, and safer. They reduce the risk of STI transmission and pregnancy, and can ease clean up making sex during menstruation that much better. 

Can You Have Sex on Your Period? 

The main question that pops up about period sex is: Is it okay to have sex on your period? The answer is a resounding, YES! Everyone is different, but generally speaking, period sex is not more painful than sex at other times of the month, it doesn’t induce heavy bleeding, or affect your libidio, contrary to some common myths. This means if you’re comfortable and your partner is comfortable, go for it! Period sex is healthy, normal, and is not “unclean.”

Choosing whether you are comfortable with sex during your period is totally up to you! A study about women and periods by the Clue app in partnership with Kinsey Institute found that only 15% of respondents reported engaging in their usual sexual activity during menstruation. Some chose to pleasure their partner instead (41%), some skipped genital sexual activity altogether (49%). Others may choose to masturbate, use a toy, or engage in other intimate activities like cuddling or kissing. Whatever you’re into and comfortable with is perfectly fine. Having sex on your period and focusing on your pleasure is perfectly safe and doesn’t pose a higher risk than sex other times in your cycle.

Benefits of Period Sex 

Period sex can also be beneficial and relieve some common symptoms experienced during menstruation. Some pros of period sex are: 

Relief from Menstrual Cramps and Period Symptoms

The endorphins released during sex can act as natural pain relief, meaning that cramps and headaches may dull or go away, helping you to feel better. Additionally, muscle relaxation that happens post-orgasm can further relieve cramping as your uterine muscles contract during cramps, so the muscle release can offer some extra comfort.

Natural Source of Lubrication

Menstrual blood is a natural lube that can make sex more comfortable, pleasurable, and reduce the risk of condom breakage. So, those with vaginal dryness (or those who just like the extra slip) may feel some relief from any discomfort they experience during sex. But, don’t worry, this pleasure doesn’t have to be isolated during menstruation! With the addition of personal lubricant, you can feel that same glide on and off your period. Here at ONE® Condoms we offer an array of lubricant options that fit your every desire. Whether that’s pH-friendly formulas, long-lasting glide or easy clean up, we got you. Menstruating or not, a little lube goes a long way ;)

Sex Can Help You Fall Asleep

During sex your body releases prolactin, which is responsible for the sleepy satisfaction you feel as a result. This is a pro of sex in general, but we emphasize this benefit for those menstruating. Many people experience pain or discomfort while on their period which can make falling asleep a struggle for the week. So, by adding sex or masturbation into your routine, falling asleep may come easier to you, even when cramps or aches get in the way.

Should You Wear Condoms for Period Sex? 

Yes, you should wear condoms during period sex. First things first, we want to debunk the myth and let you know that yes, you can get pregnant on your period. So, don’t ditch the condom at this phase in your cycle if you are trying to prevent pregnancy. Additionally, because of hormonal changes and the opening of your cervix while on your period, you may be more susceptible to STIs and other infections like UTIs or BV. This means that even if you and your partner test negative for STIs, condoms can still help reduce the risk of getting an infection during menstruation. Condoms also can make post-sex clean up a breeze because the period blood will easily be discarded along with the condom and not get directly on the inserted penis or sex toy!

Best Period Sex Tips 

Communicate Boundaries with Your Partner

Penetrative period sex isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay. Discuss with your partner your comfortability levels and theirs to see where you align. So, if you are both comfortable with penetrative sex, go for it, if not there are lots of other ways to experience pleasure while menstruating. Cuddling, kissing, fingering, exploring erogenous zones, and dirty talk are just some ways to find satisfaction during your period that don’t involve penetration. Be open and honest with your partner about what excites you and listen to them so that you can feel good all month long.

Make Yourself Comfortable

Period sex is messy. That’s okay! For some that’s part of the fun and for others they are looking for the most mess-free way to enjoy sex on their period. Find ways to make yourself more comfortable, because when you are worried about messes, stains, or anything else, it can be hard to focus on how you are feeling. Some ways to feel at ease and avoid getting period blood on your sheets, clothes or body include: putting down a dark towel, using a menstrual disc, trying out shower sex, using condoms, keeping wipes close by and anything else that enhances your pleasure during period sex. 

Test Out Different Positions

During your period, sex positions that you usually find enjoyable may cause discomfort or feel different. It is important to be open with yourself and your partner about what feels good so that you both can find a position that is comfortable and tantalizing. 

Switch It Up

Your sensitivity may be enhanced this time of the month and that is something you can use to your advantage. Whether that’s testing out erogenous zones and finding new places that make you tick or experimenting with textured condoms to see if those studs or ribs feel even more pleasurable when you’re sensitive, it’s up to you!

Conclusion 

In summary, period sex is a healthy, normal, and often pleasurable experience that can make a dreaded time of the month a little bit easier. So, if it is something you would like to try, chat with your partner to see how you can incorporate period sex into your monthly routine. 

Find your comfort levels together, if you both aren’t down for penetration, there are other sexual activities you can try like mutual masturbation or making out. Happy experimenting! 

FAQs 

Is it bad to have sex on your period? 

No, it is not bad to have sex on your period. Period sex, like all sex, comes with risks like STI transmission and pregnancy, but it is perfectly fine to engage in sex while menstruating.

What is the best condom for period sex? 

ONE® Condoms has lots of condom options that are great for period sex. Whether you want to see how those Super Studs™ feel when you are more sensitive, try a thinner condom, or use a flavored condom for oral, we have a condom for you.

Can you have oral sex on your period? 

Yes. So long as both parties are comfortable, oral sex is fine to engage in while on your period. While it is certainly not required, some people find that wearing a menstrual disc or having their partner focus on the clitoris make them feel more comfortable during period oral sex and reduce the messiness, if that is something that worries you.

Keep in mind that STIs can be transmitted via oral sex and the introduction of period blood can heighten the risk, so consider using oral dams to further prevent the transmission of STIs. 

Can you get pregnant on your period?

Yes. While it is not the most fertile time of the menstrual cycle, you can get pregnant while on your period. If you are not trying to conceive, wearing condoms during period sex is an amazing choice that can help prevent pregnancy and avoid the transmission of infections.