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People have a lot of opinions about period sex, and we’re here to make space for it via an entire blog for your reading pleasure. Sex on your period can be nourishing, connective, and deeply satisfying.

Your body is already doing something extraordinary during menstruation. So why not explore what’s available to you without any shame?

Let’s start busting those myths and get to the facts! 🩸

Myth #1: "It’s gross"

Period sex is natural, and for many it’s even more pleasurable. Menstrual blood is a mix of blood, vaginal fluid, cells and fluid shed from the uterine endometrial lining - no different than any other bodily fluid. It’s not dirty or gross. If you can bleed for days and still be magical, surely we can de-shame your pleasure while it’s happening.

Reality: Menstrual sex is relatively common, and according to research (in a predominantly heterosexual sample) from Clue and the Kinsey Institute, around 15% of women engage in normal sexual activity while menstruating and around 49% of women engage in some kind of sexual activity. 

Myth #2: "You can't get pregnant during your period"

While it’s less likely, sperm can live in the body for up to five days, and if you ovulate early, pregnancy is still a possibility.

Reality: The Bump breaks this down more specifically, though it is important to know there still could be a low risk. If avoiding pregnancy is important to you, use protection regardless of your cycle phase.

Myth #3: "No one wants sex on their period"

Some folks actually experience higher arousal just before or during menstruation due to hormonal shifts, which can enhance pleasure. 

Reality: While there hasn’t been a lot of support for this type of research and current studies show mixed results, this article by Flo makes a great argument that so many other factors affect desire outside of menstruating. With that said, many do partake and enjoy period sex. 

Myth #4: "It’s too messy"

It might be a bit messier than usual, but so is good sex - period or not.

Reality: Use towels, waterproof sheets, or explore in the shower. Focus on what feels good, and setting up a comfortable space instead of worrying about the mess. 

Check out Clue's “36 superstitions about periods from around the world” for more myths. Now we’ll get into the good stuff:

Exploring Pleasure on your Period

• Tune in to what your body actually wants. Reflect on “What kind of touch do I want right now?”, and “What kind of intimacy feels safe and sexy?”

• Try going slower. Many folks experience increased blood flow and heightened pelvic sensitivity, so slower, more intentional touch can feel more satisfying

• Be aware of what would make you and anyone you’re intimate with comfy in the space, like using darker sheets or towels, exploring in the shower, or keeping anything else that would be helpful close by. 

• Try sex positions where you’re in control of depth or angle. 

• Explore self-pleasure while using heat packs, pelvic breathing, or other tools that would feel good.  

Seeking another chapter in your pleasure adventure? Check out more on our blog or find us on Instagram. 💗