While many women worry about period sex, it’s actually perfectly fine to have penetrative sexual intercourse during your menstrual cycle as long as you use protection. However, it’s important to note that bleeding after sex can also be a sign of a serious problem like cervical inflammation, uterine fibroids or even cancer.
1. Towels
If you’re squeamish around period blood, or are worried about staining the sheets, it may be worth investing in some period towels (or just having a few extra sets of bed linen) to make life a little easier. Similarly, having a damp washcloth or wet wipes nearby to clean up post-sex can help.
It’s also worth remembering that having sex during the time of your cycle can increase the likelihood of an STI*. STIs like HIV can be present in menstrual blood, so always use contraception (ideally a condom) if you’re planning on having sex on your period or if you’re spotting between periods.
Bleeding after sex is common and usually nothing to worry about, especially if it’s a light amount of bleeding. However, if the bleeding is heavier or if it’s coming from a different area of your body than usual, you should check in with your GP or gynecologist.
Some women also experience an increased sex drive when they’re on their period, which can make it even more enjoyable! Plus, having a little extra lubrication on hand can boost pleasure.
2. Shower
Having sex right after your period may be less messy than you think, especially if you have a short cycle and your fertile window is close to ending. This is because the end of your bleeding coincides with the beginning of ovulation, when sperm have the best chance of meeting up with your egg. If you have sex during this time, unprotected, you could get pregnant.
Even if you have a longer cycle and your fertile window is past, you still have to be careful because of possible spotting between periods, which is sometimes mistaken for ovulation. If you have penetrative sex when you’re spotting, you can get pregnant because sperm can live up to five days.
When it comes to having sex during your period, the most important thing is that both partners are comfortable with it and agree to do so. It’s also essential to remember that a condom is necessary for pregnancy and STI prevention, no matter what day of the month it is. It’s also a good idea to use plenty of lubrication during sex on your period, especially if you are using tampons because they can dry out the vagina, Minkin says. It’s a great idea to try shower sex during your period, as this can be mess-free and can help avoid staining the bedsheets.
3. Menstrual Cups
There is a lot of hype around menstrual cups, and they’re a great option for women who want to enjoy orgasms without the mess. Menstrual cups are bell-shaped devices that you insert into your vagina during your period to collect period blood instead of absorbing it. They’re available as reusable or disposable options. Disposable menstrual cups are one-time use products, while reusable cups are made of soft and flexible silicone and can be worn for up to 12 hours at a time.
When used properly, menstrual cups can help with pain and reduce heavy periods for women with endometriosis or other health conditions that cause inflammation of the tissue that lines your uterus and womb. They can also protect you from STIs (sexually transmitted infections) and other diseases that can be passed via menstrual blood, such as HIV.
If you’re going to use a cup, you should talk with your partner ahead of time about it. If they’re not on board with it, try to find alternatives like oral sex or anal sex, clitoral stimulation, foreplay, kissing, and non-penetrative masturbation that will still provide the orgasm you both love. A reusable menstrual cup can be removed during penetrative sex, but it’s best to wait until afterward so the cup doesn’t get pushed up against your cervix and potentially leak or become dislodged.
4. The Right Partner
The decision to have sex during your period is a very personal one, and should be based on your own comfort level. If you and your partner decide to do it, we suggest having open communication with each other about how you feel, what positions you prefer and the best way to avoid messes.
It’s important to remember that you are more at risk for STIs and pregnancy when having sex, so it’s important to always use protection. It’s also a good idea to bring some towels for you and your partner to lie on if you plan on having penetrative period sex, as the missionary position can limit blood flow.
Occasional spotting after sex isn’t a sign of anything serious and often clears up on its own. If the bleeding persists, a doctor may do a pelvic exam to check your cervix and order tests like a pap smear or pregnancy test.
If you’re worried about the spotting, make an appointment with your OB-GYN to get checked out. Your doctor will take a look at your cervix and might order a pelvic ultrasound or endometrial biopsy, depending on the cause of the bleeding. These procedures aren’t uncomfortable and aren’t usually cause for concern, especially if the spotting is light. If it’s heavier, your doctor may do a hysterosalpingogram (an X-ray of your uterus) to look for abnormalities or cancer.
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