- By Prerna Targhotra
- Fri, 24 May 2024 03:53 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Period sex is one of the most frequently asked questions. Is it safe to have sex during menstruation? Is it good or bad? What are the chances of pregnancy? What are the chances of infection? These questions need honest, real and clear answers.
Unless it troubles period sex is a common sexual behaviour by 3-30% of the sexually active women. It may still feel a little bit taboo as due to religious reasons couples avoid having sex during menstruation and the spillage of blood all over.
Dr Nazia Dalwai, Gynecologist, Obstetrician, Infertility Specialist and General Physician, HCL Healthcare, Mumbai explained about the benefits of having period sex.
Benefits Of Period Sex
Relief From Period Cramps
During menstruation, the uterus is contracting to release the lining. Also during orgasm the muscles of the uterus contract and release. This relieves the menstrual cramps. Engaging in period sex can occupy your mind and keep you relaxed and distracted from the usual menstrual problems
Sadness And Depression Alleviation
Period sex can release happy hormones like endorphins, oxytocin, and dopamine can keep your sadness and depression away from you and you feel good about it and yourself.
Shorter Periods
Uterine muscle contractions to release its contents can shorten your periods.
Increased Libido
Some women may experience increased sex drive around ovulation, that is, 2 weeks before menstruation. Due to swollen vulva and vagina, there is sensitivity to the act of orgasm and a heightened sense of satisfaction during menstruation sex.
Natural Lubrication
Blood acts as natural lubrication though barrier methods always need to be used. Water-based lubricants are preferred.
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Relief Of Migraine Attacks
Some women may feel relief from migraine attacks or cluster types of headaches.
Cons Of Period Sex (Image Credits: Canva)
Disadvantages Of Period Sex
It could be a mess for you and your partner if not well prepared. It can lead to anxiety and self-consciousness. Communication is the key here between you and your partner. Performing in the shower on towels is usually seen.
Risk of sexually transmitted infections like hepatitis, and HIV. Contact with the infected blood can spread it to the partner. Hence barrier contraceptives like male and female condoms, and dental dams depending upon the nature of sexual activity are a must.
Increased propensity to other infections due to a rise in the vaginal pH during menstruation that is from 3.5 to 4.5 it becomes alkaline where yeast and many other bacteria thrive. Bacterial vaginosis and UTI become common. The cervix is open during menstruation hence with sexual activity ascending infections in the reproductive tract become common.
The chances of pregnancy are low though not zero. Fertile days are 2 days before and 4 days after ovulation. The normal menstrual cycle is of 28 days, as the ovulation occurs on the 14th day. In 25 days, cycle ovulation occurs on the 11th day and in 22 days cycle ovulation occurs on the 8th day. Sperms are alive for 72 hours in the reproductive tract after the sexual activity and ovum is available for 48 hours. So early ovulation makes it possible to become pregnant; chances are low though not impossible.
Dr Dalwai said that, I am sure one is aware enough to make the choices for herself and her partner. Please keep in mind there is nothing wrong or shameful about having period sex. It's a personal choice and it's up to you and your partner to be comfortable about the situation and make a decision.