Is it safe to have sex while on your period? Everything you need to know

An illustration of a hugging couple and a blood drip representing period sex
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Created with Hector Chapa, MD, FACOG, Clinical Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, USA

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In a nutshell

Is period sex bad? Is it safe to have sex while on period? For anyone wondering, we have good news: Period sex is perfectly safe and even helpful in a way. Some ladies find that it alleviates menstrual symptoms like cramps or moodiness, and if you and your partner can get past the messiness of the whole experience, there is really no reason to avoid it.

Period sex is often surrounded by misconceptions and cultural taboos, but the truth is that it can be a safe and enjoyable part of your relationship. 

So, what happens when you have sex on your period? Sex during menstruation may come with several physical and emotional benefits, like increased lubrication and pain relief. Whether you’re considering period sex for the first time or looking to learn more, this guide aims to dispel the myths and offer helpful advice for you and your partner.

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Is period sex safe?

Having sex on your period is just as safe as having sex on any other day of the month—regardless of how you may feel about it. There are no inherent medical risks to period sex, period. 

Menstrual blood is just a natural bodily fluid composed of blood, tissue, and mucus from the womb lining. Therefore, it is not harmful to either partner. If both of you feel comfortable with the idea, there is no medical reason to avoid sexy time during your period. 

But, hold your horses. Period sex is not a magic ticket for unprotected, risk-free sex. You can still catch an infection or get pregnant, so make sure to get the same protection as you would at any other time of the month.

Why should you use protection?

Some research shows that the risk of catching sexually transmitted infections (STIs) might be slightly higher during your period. Therefore, make your best use of barrier protection methods, such as condoms or dental dams. 

And, although the chances of getting pregnant are lower during this time, it can still happen. How? Your period marks the beginning of a new menstrual cycle, and ovulation has not yet happened—there should be no way for an egg to get fertilized. But, if your cycle is irregular or you have a condition like endometriosis, it will be harder to predict your fertility window. Even stress, which we all have plenty of these days, can disrupt your cycle. 

Furthermore, sperm can survive for 3–5 days in your body after ejaculation, and the egg is viable for approximately 24 hours in your fallopian tube. If you are not looking to get pregnant, use birth control even when having sex on your period.

👉Find out more: Understanding female libido: Signs of a high sex drive in women

Is period sex bad or harmful?

Many—strong, independent, and emancipated—ladies get icky feelings about having sex while bleeding. But, while it may be a little messy, is period sex bad? Is any (consensual, adult) sex inherently bad? 

Myth 1: Period sex is “dirty”

In many cultures and societies, period sex is still a taboo topic, surrounded by a lot of social stigma. Most major world religions prohibit period sex entirely. According to the Christian Bible, a woman is perceived as “unclean” during menstruation, and so is the man who has sexual relations with a menstruating woman. This feeds into the myth that period sex is unhygienic or dirty. 

Remember that menstrual blood is just another natural bodily fluid, similar to other secretions like saliva or semen. It’s not “dirty” or harmful. As long as both partners practice good hygiene and feel comfortable about it, there’s no medical reason to avoid period sex for cleanliness.

Myth 2: Period sex is unhealthy

Another myth out there regards period sex as unhealthy and dangerous. Is having sex on your period bad for your health? Again, there’s no intrinsic health risk to having sex during menstruation. You may find it enjoyable and even pain-relieving due to the release of endorphins during orgasm, which can help reduce menstrual cramps. We’ll delve into that part a little bit later.

What happens when you have sex on your period?

Some people love period sex, some people hate it. It seems like there is no in-between. If you have never had sex while on your period, you might be wondering what the catch is. How is period sex different than your usual sex?

Lubrication is increased

Your vaginal discharge acts as a natural lubricant. Things getting extra slippery can increase your pleasure and make the experience more comfortable, especially if you sometimes struggle with dryness during sex.

Things might get a little messy

The messiness that comes with period sex is surely the biggest downside of the whole experience. For some people, it can be a deal breaker. Blood can get everywhere: on you, your partner, and on the sheets. This can make you feel self-conscious and anxious, and take some fun out of the whole experience.

The messiness really depends on the heaviness of your flow and the position you are using. Remember, menstrual blood is harmless, and with proper preparation, the mess can be minimized. 

👉Find out more: Does period sex make you more attached? Exploring the emotional and spiritual aspects

How can you deal with the messiness?

  • Use a towel. Place a (preferably a dark) towel on the bed to help absorb any blood or fluids and make cleanup easier.
  • Get ready to clean up. Place some wet wipes next to your bedside to wipe down whatever needs to be wiped. 
  • Get in the shower. If you like shower sex, now is the perfect time. This approach is a great way to minimize mess, as the water washes away any blood or fluids in real time.
  • Wait for the lighter days. If the messiness really freaks you out, have sex on the lighter days of your period when there is less blood flow. You might be surprised by how “normal” it then feels. 
  • Period products. Some people use internal period products, like menstrual discs, which can block blood flow during intercourse, though they should be used with caution.

Does having sex on your period help with menstrual symptoms?

What are the potential benefits of period sex? Does having sex on your period help with menstrual symptoms? Let’s take a look. 

  • Relief from cramps. Some ladies feel like their pre-menstrual or active menstrual cramps are not as intense after having sex. Orgasms are associated with a release of endorphins in the brain, which can help reduce painful sensations. 
  • Better mood. During sex, and especially during orgasm, the body releases endorphins, which are natural feel-good chemicals. These hormones can boost your mood and help reduce stress, anxiety, and even irritability, which are common during menstruation.
  • Emotional closeness. Oxytocin, also known as the “love hormone,” is released during sexual activity and orgasm. It promotes feelings of closeness and bonding with your partner. Feeling connected and cared for during a time when you might be more sensitive can positively impact your bond.

Tips for enjoyable period sex

Here are some tips to make the best out of the experience: 

  • Use a condom. To prevent STIs or unwanted pregnancy, don’t forget about using protection. 
  • Communicate openly with your partner. Talk about how you both feel about having sex during this time of the month. If either of you are unsure, delve into the reasons why you feel uncomfortable. 
  • Take a shower before sex. Cleaning up a little beforehand can make the experience much more comfortable and not as messy. Although this applies to all sex, the importance of hygiene is now even more emphasized.
  • Remove the tampon. If you have a tampon in, make sure to take it out before the fun times begin.
  • Use a towel. Place a dark-colored towel underneath you to catch any leaks. Or, do it in the shower to avoid the mess. 
  • Get some wet wipes ready. Keep wet wipes on hand to clean up the mess afterward.
  • Experiment with positions. If any usual sexual position feels uncomfortable, switch it up. Go for any position that seems less likely to cause leaks and feels comfortable enough. For example, try lying on your side with your partner behind you. You could even use a pillow underneath and cover it with a towel.
You can't get pregnant any time
of the month

Femia offers the most accurate tool for determining fertile days

Try Femia now

Questions from Femia community

  • Am I at a higher risk of infection during period sex?

    Yes, there's a slightly higher risk of STIs and bacterial infections when having sex on your period. This might be because of the blood, microtears in your vagina, or just a different immune response during menstruation. Make sure to use barrier protection methods like condoms or dental dams.

  • Can I get pregnant from having sex on my period?

    Yes—although less likely, pregnancy can still occur, especially if ovulation happens early in your cycle. If your cycle is not very regular, you have a condition like endometriosis, or you’ve been under a lot of stress lately, it might be harder to predict your fertility window.

  • Should I avoid certain positions during period sex?

    There's no medical reason to avoid specific positions, but your usual way of having sex may not work at this time. Try experimenting, see what feels comfortable, and keep in mind that some positions may be messier than others.

The bottom line

Bottom line, is it ok to have sex on your period? Yes, it’s totally fine. There is no medical reason to postpone sex if both you and your partner feel up for it. Period sex is not bad or harmful in any way; in fact, it might even help with menstrual cramps and improve your mood. 

Remember that the risk of contracting an infection is a little bit higher than usual, and you can still get pregnant. Therefore, use barrier protection methods like a condom or a dental dam. You can make the entire experience much more enjoyable by placing a towel underneath you or having sex in the shower, as well as switching up your usual sex position for one where leaks are less likely.

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