The truth about period sex

Can you have sex on your period? There’s no reason why you should have to miss out on a week of sex just because you’re bleeding. In fact, having sex and orgasms during your period is actually good for you and might even relieve some of your period symptoms, like cramps and migraines. We’ve put together a guide on some of the most frequently asked questions about having sex during your period.

What are the risk factors of having sex on your period? Is it safe?

Safe from what exactly? In terms of whether or not there is any risk to you or your partner from having sex while you have your period, no there aren’t any extra risks at all. Whether or not you are on your period you need to take precautions to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and from getting pregnant. In fact there may be a slightly higher chance of some infections such as hepatitis B and HIV as there are higher concentrations of these in blood.

Can you get pregnant on your period?

Yes, you can get pregnant at any time of the month. You may have heard the urban legend that you can’t get pregnant if you have sex on your period, but that’s simply not true. As sperm can live inside the female body for 7 days sex on your period may well lead to pregnancy, especially if you have shorter cycles.

Unfortunately, your period isn’t a get-out-of-jail-free card when it comes to contraception and safe sex, and STIs are still as much of a risk during your period as they are when you’re not menstruating.

How do I have period sex?

However you want!

Remember that sex doesn’t have to be penis in vagina penetrative sex, sex is simply anything that brings you sexual pleasure, be that masturbation, oral sex or penetration and you can have any of these while on your period.

Make sure that you have removed any tampons, menstrual discs or cups first before any penetration.

Some period blood may get on your sheets so perhaps lay down a dark towel for easier and quicker clean up, or try having sex in the shower so you can wash away any blood as it comes out.

Do I have to remove my tampon during sex?

Absolutely. Keeping a tampon in during sex is a very bad idea, as any penetration can actually push the tampon further up inside you. It can’t get “lost” (there’s nowhere for it to go), but it can make it difficult to remove. You never want to have a tampon in for more than six hours, so if you’re approaching that time limit and you’re really struggling to get it out, seek professional help from an urgent care centre, a doctor, or go to A&E. Don’t feel embarrassed – they’ve seen it all before.

Is it gross to have sex on your period?

That depends on what you think and your comfort level, but having sex during your period is not more or less ‘gross’ than any other kind of sex. Period blood is a bodily fluid, and there are lots of other bodily fluids already involved in sex, even when you’re not on your period. The key here is communication and talking about what you and any partner may be comfortable with.

Are there any benefits to having sex on your period?

Having sex on your period can have lots of benefits. The hormones released at orgasm act as a natural painkiller so may help with period pains or migraines, as well as making you feel good and relaxed. Orgasms can also lead to contractions meaning that the period is shorter and the menstrual blood itself acts as a natural lubricant.

This is generalised advice and isn't personalised nor to replace the advice of your doctor and other health care professionals.