Sex during a period may sound gross or even impossible for some women, but it’s actually quite pleasurable and can provide many benefits. Having an orgasm helps soothe cramps, and the lubrication of menstrual blood can make it easier to get started in the bedroom.
Additionally, orgasms release feel-good hormones that can help reduce pain and stress. Other methods of relieving period pain include applying heat and taking over-the-counter painkillers.
Relief from Period Cramps
There are many ways to alleviate period cramps, including taking over the counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen. Heat therapy, like using a heating pad or taking a warm bath, can also help. Some women find relief from exercise, like yoga or light cardio, or by drinking hot liquids, such as herbal tea. If you’re uncomfortable with over-the-counter pain relievers or trying heat therapy, talk to your OB-GYN about other options that may work for you.
During orgasm, your uterus contracts and then relaxes, which can lessen the effects of menstrual cramps. The release of hormones, like dopamine and oxytocin, during orgasm can also reduce pain.
Orgasming can also help with other PMS symptoms, such as headaches. In one study, 70% of people who suffered from migraines reported that sex reduced or eliminated their pain.
If your migraines are so severe that you can’t get any sleep, try a soothing bath or sip some chamomile tea to calm the pain. And if you’re feeling romantic, you can always invite your partner over for some steamy period fun. Just be sure to use a condom to avoid any messy mishaps! Having sex during your period used to be taboo, but nowadays it’s perfectly safe (unless you aren’t in the mood). Plus, there are many benefits to having sex when you’re on your period.
Feel-Good Hormones
Many women turn to over the counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen, or hot baths to help alleviate cramping. However, sex releases feel-good hormones known as endorphins that can be just as effective at numbing the pain.
During orgasms, the uterus contracts and then relaxes, reducing menstrual cramps. The contractions also help the uterus shed its lining, which can lead to shorter periods. Plus, the rush of orgasms can give you a natural energy boost.
Sex also increases oxytocin, or the “cuddle hormone” that helps to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Oxytocin can also help reduce the pain caused by a period.
If you’re having trouble with pelvic cramps, try lying down in the missionary position on top of a pillow. It’s a classic for a reason, and it will open up your hips just enough to make sex more comfortable. You could also try doggy style, or have your partner on top of you while playing with a vibrator. Or just take it easy and cuddle with your partner instead. Just be sure to use a condom, as period blood can act as a natural lubricant. Using a condom will also protect against an infection. Just be sure to wash it regularly. This is especially important if you have a long or heavy flow. If your cramps are getting out of hand, talk to a doctor about taking medication such as mefenamic acid (available on prescription only) to ease the discomfort.
Shorter Periods
It might sound gross, but having sex on your period can actually make your periods shorter. This is because orgasms cause uterine contractions that speed up the shedding of your menstrual lining, which results in shorter periods.
Orgasms also release feel-good hormones, including oxytocin, which can help reduce cramp pain and relieve PMS symptoms like headaches. And if you’re worried about making a mess, try to do it in the shower or put down a towel first. Another reason to get your sex on: you won’t need lube because the natural lubrication of your cervix and vaginal canal can make sex feel extra silky.
There’s nothing worse than PMS cramps, but sex can be one of the best ways to ease them. Research has found that vaginal stimulation increases the neurotransmitters involved in pain perception, elevating your pain threshold.
Plus, sex releases the hormone prolactin, which helps to relax the muscles in your pelvic area, relieving cramping and making you feel less stressed. So if you’re feeling horny and have your partner on board, go for it! Just remember to use a condom to protect against pregnancy and STIs.
Increased Intimacy
It’s not for everyone, but if it’s right for you, sexual activity can bring emotional intimacy during the difficult days of your period. It may also help reduce cramps and other PMS symptoms for some women because orgasms can alleviate pain through the release of endorphins.
Additionally, during orgasms, your body releases hormones that can improve libido. These hormones include dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin. Serotonin can make you feel good about yourself, which can boost your confidence and self-esteem. It can also relieve stress. Oxytocin and dopamine can soothe menstrual cramps and mood swings because they are natural painkillers.
You also may not need to use as much lubrication during orgasms because your blood acts as a natural lubricant. For many couples, this can result in a more pleasurable experience.
In addition, if you know that your menstrual flow tends to be light on certain days of the month, you can schedule sex during those days. This can make for a more comfortable sex experience for you and your partner, and it may help alleviate discomfort and prevent leakage. However, if you have a heavy flow, it’s important to wear protection. You should always practice safe sex with your partner, regardless of the day of the week. It’s also a good idea to talk with your partner about their comfort level when it comes to sexual activity during your period.
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