Just because you're menstruating doesn't mean you can't have sex with your partner. While it might seem intimidating at first, there are ways to enjoy clean and comfortable sex while on your period. Follow these quick tips to better understand period sex and the best way to have it.

Can you have sex on your period? 

While it might be a little messier than other times of the month, there are no negative health effects when having sex on your period. It’s common to have a higher sex drive during your period, and it can even be more pleasurable to have sex while menstruating.

Are there any benefits of period sex?

Yes! Having sex during your period can help to relieve cramps. As you orgasm, the muscles in your uterus contract bringing relief from cramps. Not only can you experience cramp relief, but as those muscles contract, your uterus will push out its contents shortly after, meaning you might even experience a shorter cycle.

A study from the National Library of Medicine even showed that period sex could help to relieve and reduce migraines and cluster headaches for some. 

Plus, it allows you and your partner(s) to get creative. Lay down a towel or move to a location you've never done it before. Consider hopping in the shower and letting the blood wash away. 

What should I know about period sex?

Do:

• Do consider having sex towards the beginning or end of your period if you're concerned about the amount of blood. While there shouldn't be much blood actively leaving your vaginal canal during sex your natural bodily fluids and movement might make it seem like there's a lot.

• Do lay down a dark-colored towel to avoid staining your sheets or other fabrics 
• Do experiment with less lubrication as the blood becomes a natural lubricant. 
• Do consider using a dental dam during oral if you're concerned about blood to mouth. Check out Lorals latex underwear that protects against STIs and creates a barrier between the mouth and genitals during oral. 
• Do consider using a menstrual disc. While you shouldn't have a tampon or menstrual cup inserted during penetrative sex, a menstrual disc is okay and lessens blood during sex. 
• Do try new positions. While on your period, your hormone levels change, which can make you extra sensitive during this time leading to different positions providing more pleasure than others

Dont: 

• Don't use your favorite towel or sheets as a barrier. While there shouldn’t be too much staining, removing stains from certain fabrics can be challenging.

• Don't skip out on birth control (if you use it) while having period sex. While you're less likely to get pregnant on your period, it’s not impossible. 
• Don't forget to use a condom or dental dam to protect against STIs. The National Health Institute reports that some STIs are even more transmissible during period sex. So be sure to protect yourself and your partner(s) no matter the time of month.
• Don’t have penetrative sex with a tampon or menstrual cup in. This can push the period product deeper into the vaginal canal, which can put you at risk of infection and discomfort 
• Don’t just go to sleep or do something else after sex. Clean up the area, wash any used towels, and throw away any used protection to avoid bacteria growth.

Your period is not shameful and should not stop you and your partner from enjoying each other as long you're both comfortable with it. Enjoy whatever choice you make, and use these tips to make it an even better experience!