Period sex remains one of menstruation’s best-kept secrets. Despite cultural stigmas, research reveals it offers unique physical and emotional benefits if approached mindfully. From natural lubrication to migraine relief, engaging in sexual activity during menstruation can transform your relationship with your cycle and your partner.
In this post, we explore the benefits of period sex and how to go about it in a comfortable, clean, and pleasurable way. Whether you’re curious or just tired of enduring period cramps with no relief, this guide is for you.
Table of Contents
Why You Should Have Sex on Your Period
Natural Pain Relief
One of the most underrated benefits of period sex is its ability to help relieve cramps. Orgasms trigger the release of endorphins—your body’s natural painkillers—which can help reduce pain and discomfort during your period. Plus, the pelvic contractions that occur during orgasm can help ease tension and muscle soreness.
“The endorphins released during orgasm act like a natural ibuprofen.”
Feel-Good Hormones That Boost Your Mood
Your hormones may be all over the place during your period, but period sex can help balance them out. The release of oxytocin (the “love hormone”) and serotonin (the “feel-good hormone”) during sex can boost your mood, helping you feel more relaxed, content, and less irritable.
Enhanced Intimacy With Your Partner
Being sexually open during menstruation can foster trust and deepen emotional intimacy. For many couples, period sex breaks down emotional walls and creates space for greater vulnerability and closeness. One of the most underappreciated benefits of period sex is how it nurtures emotional connection.
Provides Natural Lubrication
Menstrual blood acts as a natural lubricant, reducing friction and making sex more comfortable—especially for those prone to vaginal dryness. This increased lubrication can elevate the entire sexual experience, making everything feel smoother and more enjoyable.
Improved Orgasms and Heightened Sensitivity
Your hormonal levels fluctuate during menstruation, often leading to increased sensitivity in the pelvic region. This means you may experience stronger orgasms or feel aroused more easily. Some people find that sex during their period feels more intense and pleasurable than usual.
Relief From Period-Related Headaches
Migraines and tension headaches are another common PMS side effect. Believe it or not, one of the physical benefits of period sex is that it can make those headaches disappear—thanks to increased circulation, muscle relaxation, and that sweet rush of endorphins after orgasm.
Boosted Libido
Research shows that many women experience a boost in sexual desire during their period, due to an increase in the secretion of ovarian steroids. This increase in your sex drive during your period can make you feel more in the mood, so why not embrace it?
How to Go About It: Tips for Comfortable and Enjoyable Period Sex
So you’re curious to try it. But how do you make period sex less messy and more enjoyable? Here’s how to go about it:
Communication is Key
Before diving in, have a clear, judgment-free conversation with your partner. Talk about comfort levels, boundaries, and any concerns. This builds trust and removes guesswork. You both deserve to feel safe, respected, and excited.
Tip: If you’re not sure how to bring it up, start with: “I’ve been reading about the benefits of period sex, what do you think about trying it sometime?” “I’d love to try intimacy during my period, are you open to that? We can use towels to manage mess.”
Prepare for the Mess (It’s Normal!)
Yes, blood may be involved—but that doesn’t mean things have to get out of hand. Lay down a dark towel or blanket, keep tissues or baby wipes nearby, and maybe light a candle for mood-setting. Or, take things into the shower if you want a completely stress-free cleanup.
Prioritize Protection
Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to get pregnant during your period—especially if you have a short cycle. Plus, menstrual blood can increase the risk of transmitting STIs. One of the most important safety-related benefits of period sex is that it can help normalize conversations around protection and safe practices.
Use condoms, even during menstruation, unless you’re both monogamous and STI-tested.
Experiment with Positions
Your cervix may be more sensitive during your period, so deep penetration might not feel great. Try positions that give you more control and comfort.
Great options include:
Spooning: Reduces cervix contact if sensitive.
Cowgirl: Lets you control depth.
Elevated hips: Place a pillow under your hips to minimize leakage
Optimize Hygiene
Take a shower beforehand, wash your hands, and keep things clean—but don’t obsess over it. Periods are natural, not dirty. If you’re using menstrual products like softcups or period discs, these can reduce or contain the flow during sex.
Pro tip: Pee after sex, just like you would normally, to prevent UTIs.
Keep It Relaxed and Fun
Don’t treat period sex like a medical procedure. Laugh if there’s a little mess, pause if you feel weird, and be open to stopping if you need to. It’s all about trust, comfort, and connection not performance. If discomfort arises, switch to non-penetrative activities (oral with a dental dam, mutual masturbation)
Choose the Right Time
Some people prefer period sex on lighter flow days—like days 3–4 when bleeding is lighter . Choose whatever feels best for you and your body. Everyone’s comfort zone is different.
Addressing Common Concerns
“Is period sex safe?”
Yes, if protection is used. Blood exposure slightly elevates STI risk, but barriers mitigate this.
“My partner is hesitant—how can I reassure them?”
Normalize menstrual blood as a natural fluid (like saliva or semen).
“What if I feel self-conscious?”
Start with low-light settings or clothed foreplay to build comfort.
If you’ve never considered it before, now’s the time to rethink your stance. The benefits of period sex are more than just physical—they’re emotional, psychological, and deeply intimate. Whether it’s relief from cramps, increased arousal, or building closeness with your partner, this often-taboo act has a lot going for it.
Sex during menstruation isn’t gross or weird it’s natural, safe, and sometimes even better than regular sex. The key is open communication, proper hygiene, and a judgment-free mindset.
If you and your partner are comfortable, give it a try. You might be surprised at how satisfying and healing it can be.
Over to you, have you ever had period sex? If not, would you like to try it or you’re totally opposed to the idea?
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