The short answer is yes, but many people choose not to because of stigma. Let’s talk about why! Depictions of periods as gross either through jokes or in the media has made period sex a polarizing topic. Some people may think of period sex as unhygienic because they think periods are “dirty” or the whole experience could be messy because there’s just too much fluid involved. While it’s true that period sex can require a bit more preparation and cleanup, period blood is a bodily fluid just like saliva or semen and isn’t something we should think of as inherently dirty. This article will talk about some of the reasons why people might enjoy period sex, and some tips to keep it safe, comfortable, and fun!
Yes, period sex can be messy, BUT there are lots of things you can do to limit the mess and make cleanup a lot easier:
Remember non-vaginal sex can also be an option! Oral, anal, or even manual sex (sex using your hands) could all be good alternatives to sex involving a vagina*.
Period sex is not bad for anyone’s health, but just like sex you have while not on your period, you’ll want to be mindful of pregnancy risk and STIs. It’s still possible for people to get pregnant even if they are on their period, which means that contraceptive methods like condoms or the pill are still important for preventing pregnancy.
Some studies show that period sex may have an increased risk of STI transmission, mostly due to STIs thriving better in less acidic environments, and period blood being less acidic than a vagina normally is. A typical pH range for a vagina is between 3.8 and 4.2 (neutral pH is 7), which means that it’s acidic. Period blood has a pH of around 7.4 which means it’s basic, or alkaline. It’s also thought that the cervix being more open during your period can increase the chance of bacteria traveling into the upper cervix/uterus. Using a condom can be a great tool to prevent STI transmission, as well as regular testing and communication.
Period blood can act as a sort of lubricant, reducing friction making sex more enjoyable for some! Orgasms can also help to alleviate some of the pain from period cramps.
Some people report being the most horny while on their period. At the beginning of your period cycle you tend to have a drop in estrogen. Your estrogen levels gradually increase over the next few days, and with it your libido (or sex drive) can also increase. Having sex when you’re really turned on can make it feel more intense and pleasurable.
Someone being on their period does not have to prevent them from having sex, in fact we’ve listed a few good reasons you may prefer it! Feel free to put these methods to the test and find out what feels/works best for you.
While being on your period does not necessarily have to stop you from having sex, if you’re uncomfortable with the idea of period sex or just don’t feel great, it is always okay to sit it out. Some people may be in pain or discomfort or feel uneasy about having sex while they’re on their period – and that is totally okay. Everyone experiences periods differently and everyone has a right to choose how they want to interact with their period and when they want to have sex.
*We know that these aren’t the words everyone uses for their bodies (eg. trans folks) and support you using the language that feels best for you.
If you have questions about this topic, feel free to contact one of our peer educators. [Link]
Last Updated: March 2024
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