Once a month, many women all over the world are plagued with aching abdomens, nausea, mood swings, and fatigue. And that’s not even counting the annoyance of ruining great underwear or having to buy tampons and or sanitary pads.
On top of that, women feel the need to abstain from sex during their monthly period, which is five to seven days out of every single month without pleasure.
In short, periods suck.
But these days, many sexual health experts and magazines are trying to eradicate the stigma that is having sex on your period. And even if the mere thought of it is gross or sounds impossible, there are actually several reasons why you should embrace it.
The Benefits of Having Sex on Your Period
- Pain Relief
Sick of suffering from menstrual cramps? Sex, or rather – an orgasm, actually alleviates pain. This is because when a woman orgasms, the uterus relaxes giving them instant pain relief.
Additionally, enjoying “The Big O” releases endorphins (the happy hormone), which is exactly what the doctor ordered when feeling under the weather.
- Shorter Periods
When a woman orgasms, the muscles of the uterus contract and relax causing menstrual blood to shed faster. And while this won’t make a significant difference, every little bit helps.
- Lubrication
For some women, using lube during sex is absolutely necessary to avoid painful sex. Luckily, menstrual blood acts as a lubricant during that time of the month, making sex more enjoyable.
How to Have Sex on Your Period
If you’re on-board with period sex or masturbation, the biggest concern will most likely be the mess. But don’t let that stop you from going to town. Simply lay down some towels (dark-coloured ones preferably)!
You could also have some wet wipes or a wash cloth on-hand for a little clean-up afterwards.
If putting down some towels isn’t your thing however, you could opt for shower sex. It’s the simplest way to do it with zero mess!
And what’s also something to mention, is that when a woman isn’t on her period, water actually causes vaginal dryness. But during that time of the month, menstrual blood will help you stay lubricated in the shower.
It really is as easy as that.
And, of course, you can enjoy so many other fun things whilst on your period too! If you’re not a fan of penetrative sex, you could wear a tampon and have your partner focus on the clitoris.
Alternatively, you can have a party for one and use a sex toy to get yourself off. Don’t feel ashamed about wanting to engage in sexual activity of any kind while on your period though. Whether you use a toy for clitoral stimulation or a dildo, you’re the only one who’ll know.
Just remember to clean your sex toy afterwards.
Stay Safe During Period Sex
Wearing a condom during period sex is beneficial not only for your sexual health safety, but is also a way for your partner to avoid getting menstrual blood on himself.
Also, the rate at which STI’s are spread while a woman is on her period may be higher, so opting for a condom really is just good practice.
Don’t Forget…
And, for those who wear tampons, don’t forget to remove it before having penetrative sex. If you’ve forgotten to do so, you may not be able to reach the string afterwards and would need to visit a doctor to have it removed. Awkward.
And lastly, it’s understandable that you still may not buy the idea of having sex or masturbating while on your period…and that’s totally OK. If it’s not something you’re into, don’t do it.
At the same time, your partner could also not enjoy the idea, in which case it is just about communication and doing what feels right for the both of you.
But at the end of the day, we’re essentially hinting that sex and masturbation during your period should basically become a law, and that you shouldn’t feel any stigma or shame about it. We all have needs, go get yours!
Article by:
Helena Lorimer, Sexual Health and Wellness Expert at JOUJOU
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