When it comes to having sex on your period, people look at it from 2 opposing sides. One side clutches their pearls, treats it like an absolute scandal, and says it’s messy and disgusting. The other side sees it as a “why not?” moment.
If we’re being very honest, your curiosity about your sex life (and your libido) doesn’t have to be on pause just because your uterus (womb) is shedding its inner lining that month. So, let’s talk about whether you can have sex during your period, if it’s safe, messy, or even enjoyable, and what science actually says about it.
Is Period Sex Safe?
The short answer is, yes. It is safe as long as you and your partner are healthy and use protection.
Let’s take it back to science class for a bit. Your period is the first phase of your menstrual cycle, when your uterus sheds its inner lining because pregnancy didn’t happen. During this time, your cervix opens slightly to let the blood flow out, and your vagina is less acidic than usual, making it more prone to infections, including STIs like HIV, hepatitis B, Chlamydia, and trichomoniasis.
So, the golden rule? Use protection like condoms if you want to have period sex.
Can You Get Pregnant on Your Period?
This is a myth that usually ends in a positive pregnancy test reality check.
Getting pregnant if you have sex during your period is less likely, but not impossible. Let’s take it back to science class again.
Sperm are very determined little guys. They can survive in your body for up to 5 days after sex! So, if you have a shorter menstrual cycle, e.g., 21 days, and you ovulate soon after your period ends, the sperm from that period sex could still be hanging around, waiting for that egg to drop during ovulation. Next thing you know, you’re panic Googling at 1 am with a million tabs open, wondering how you got pregnant on your period.
Another thing to remember is that our bodies and hormones can decide to go rogue, and that “period” you thought you saw could just be spotting or irregular bleeding from hormonal changes or even ovulation.
So, at the risk of sounding like a broken record, use protection and stay safe.
Are There Benefits of Period Sex?
Yes, it can be messy, but period sex actually has some benefits.
You are naturally lubricated: Menstrual blood acts as a natural lubricant, which can make sex feel smoother and more enjoyable for some people.
Orgasms can relieve cramps: Those same uterine contractions that make you groan during your period? Orgasms cause similar contractions, but in a way that helps your uterus relax afterward. Then there are the endorphins, which are your happy hormones, released when you orgasm. The result is less cramping, fewer mood swings, and a nice dose of post-orgasm calm.
Heightened arousal and sensitivity: Your hormones, especially oestrogen, can peak when you’re on your period, making you feel extra turned on. When you combine that with the extra flow of blood to your pelvic area when you’re on your period, it’s no surprise that some people say period sex feels more intense.
Tips for When You Want to Have Sex on Your Period
If you’ve decided you’re not letting a little blood stop the fun, here are a few smart tips to make period sex safer, cleaner, and way less awkward.
Always use protection: Even during your period, you can still get pregnant and catch some STIs. Condoms are non-negotiable if you’re not in a mutually tested, monogamous relationship. They also help keep things tidier by acting as a barrier.
Use a towel: You can put a towel on your bedsheets to save the period blood from messing up your bedsheets.
Try it in the shower: If you’re worried about the mess, you can try some steamy shower sex. The water helps wash everything away and keeps things feeling clean and fresh. The plus is that you have less laundry to do.
Communicate with your partner: Talk to your partner before you have sex on your period. Some people are totally fine with period sex while others aren’t comfortable at all — and that’s okay. No one should ever feel pressured to do something they aren’t comfortable doing.
Choose positions that work for you: Some people find they’re more sensitive or crampy during their period, so gentle positions might be better. The bottom line is to do whatever works best for you.
Clean up afterward: Make sure you have a shower or wipe down gently after sex to lower your risk of infection. Also, pee right after; it helps flush out bacteria and prevents UTIs (urinary tract infections).
Take care of your body: If you notice unusual symptoms after sex, like pain, itching, or an abnormal smell, don’t ignore them. Speak to a doctor to rule out any infections or irritation.
Final Thoughts
Period sex isn’t for everyone, which is totally fine. But if you’re curious and comfortable, it can be safe, intimate, and even enjoyable when done right. Just remember to communicate, use protection, and listen to your body.
