How-to Guides, Menstruation

All you need to know about period sex

period-sex-101

 

Yes, you heard it right. Period sex. Yes, you don’t have to devoid yourself of the pleasures for even a day longer. Why should you? Just because you’re on your period is no reason for you to forego sex. The boys will not have all the fun because we will be right there with them too.

While some menstruators don’t feel like having sex during their period, for others, sexual activity during periods can be even more pleasurable than at other times of the month. Both are totally normal and okay and we need to say that out loud!

Period sex is not a topic that is widely discussed and accepted as dinner table conversation in the Indian society. Heck even the first part of the term does not get its due attention but that’s a topic for another day. Mostly, this is to do with the norms and beliefs set by the religious scriptures.

Many menstruators feel more sexually aroused and sensitive during this time of the month because of the changes in your hormone levels. A lot of them also experience an increased feeling of congestion in the pelvic area during periods, which can also ramp up your sex drive. But for some, this extra sensitivity during periods may make it uncomfortable to have sex during this time. The bottom line is to make sure that both you and your partner are comfortable with the situation.

We say, if you’re curious, give it a try! You can always stop if you’re experiencing discomfort or pain. Moreover, having sex during periods can be somewhat like the first time you did it. A little messy, a little awkward. And what better could you ask for during that ‘time of the month’ when you need an instant lift me up. The “happy” hormones you release afterwards will actually help with alleviating the cramps.

For those who do want to give it a try, read on to dive in the world of pain and pleasure-

  1. Towels: We recommend keeping a few towels or wet wipes handy and laying them out to ensure hygiene and to protect your sheets.
  2. Foreplay: Did we mention orgasms emit biochemicals that can help ease cramps? Period cramps can be gut-wrenching, but the release of dopamine during orgasms can aid in pain relief, and leave you feeling all goody-goody.
  3. Lubrication: Menstrual blood acts as a great natural lubricant. Trust the mother nature to take care of all your needs for this time.
  4. Shorter periods: You read it right! Period sex can lead to shorter periods as the muscle contractions take place during orgasms pushes out the uterine content swiftly.
  5. Positions: While having periods increases the libido, you will find some positions hotter than others (like spooning) at this time. Guys and girls, this is the time to experiment with depth of penetration and the angles you find most pleasurable. 
  6. Removing the tampon: This is a little obvious, isn’t it? If not, then you should know that it is important to remove the tampon or menstrual cup before penetration as it can get pushed further into vagina causing bacterial infections. 
  7. Oral? Yes please! : It may sound uncomfortable, but getting eaten out during period can be a huge turn on. How? Ask your partner to focus their tongue on the clit, for this you can also keep  the tampon or menstrual cup inside in order to avoid the blood. 
  8. Safe sex always: It goes without saying that you should practice safe sex may it be any time of the month. Even if you are in a monogamous relationship, make sure to get tested and in case any partner isn’t, put them condoms to use! 
  9. Pregnancy risk: Even though it is unlikely, there is always a chance you risk pregnancy by having unprotected sex even during periods. You are most likely to get pregnant in the middle of your menstrual cycle. Therefore, protection is a must!
  10. Shower sex!: The flow of water can help clean up the period mess while period blood acts as a natural lube during penetration. If you haven’t yet, you are in for some strangely kinky sex with your partner in the shower.

Period sex is not everyone’s cup of tea, so it is always better to have a one-on-one discussion with your partner to find out how they feel about it before indulging in it. For some couples who haven’t attempted period sex, giving it a go can be an exciting opportunity to beat a dread of the obscure.

And in case you don’t feel like dealing with another human during those days (understandable) there are always other ways to satisfy yourself; what’s masturbation and vibrators for anyways? When no one hits the spot- a vibrator always will!