Can you have sex during your period?

The subject of sex during menstruation is a divisive one and is still very taboo today: while some people don't mind having sex during their period, for others it is a big no. According to an Ipsos survey conducted for Always and Tampax in 2013 *, 79% of French women surveyed give up sex during their period, or at least certain practices such as penetration. Of course, not everyone enjoys menstruation sex. Even without having a problem with the blood, some people experience cramping, bloating, pain, or fatigue during their periods, and find it uncomfortable to have sex during this time. But if it's something that tempts you, here are some tips and answers to questions you might have about “period sex”.

Sex during your period: why is it taboo?

If there is no medical contraindication, having sex during her period can be uncomfortable for some. Although the voice around menstruation is now free in the media and through feminist initiatives, sex during menstruation is a taboo subject for many people. For Jane, 28, "It is still badly perceived in society". However, the young woman only met a totally reluctant partner, for whom sex during menstruation was unthinkable. "The approach has always come mainly from me, but as with the hair, I have the impression that once it is downplayed, the course is over! ", she confides. Menstruation sex is not “dirty” it can be messy, but it just takes a little more preparation than usual!

Can you have sex on your period?

Of course. But first you need to feel like it, and be comfortable with your period and your body. Sex during your period is a possibility, not an obligation! Some people don't feel particularly well suited for sex at this time of the month for a variety of reasons. Laurie, 25, has no taboos about her period, neither does her partner. "It came quite naturally, we discussed it beforehand and I asked him if he didn't mind, and then it happened", she explains. The consent of both partners is required, so feel free to bring it up between yourselves. "On the other hand, I am often tired during my period, and I do not necessarily feel desirable, especially the first two days", she continues. We are not all equal when it comes to period pain, and while some people see their libido explode during their period, others do not feel the urge to have sex during their period. Listen to yourself, your body and your desires.

How to have sex during your period?

Even during your period, it is important to have safe sex to avoid unwanted pregnancies and the spread of STIs. Condoms and dental dams are always recommended for the prevention of STIs and pregnancy, as both can still occur.

• Trying sex in the shower

There is no better time to try out sex in the shower than during your period. This is indeed a great alternative if you don't want to get your sheets dirty.

To avoid staining your sheets, just place a mattress pad, a towel or an old sheet on your bed, which can be washed afterwards.

• Using a special menstrual cup

Some menstrual discs and cups are great for having sex during your period. This is particularly the case with the Ziggy Cup, the menstrual cup launched by the Swedish brand Intimina.

• Be open and honest with your partner

If you plan to have sex during your period, talk to your partner about your two comfort zones. Ask if he / she is open to having sex during your period, and suggest some of the methods above to make you both feel comfortable and satisfied. es

What sexual practices are possible during menstruation?

The rules do not prevent any sexual practice. Everything is therefore possible. It is however necessary to take into account the preferences and sensitivities of each one: a deep penetration can be more painful. However, you can also have sex without penetration. You can choose to have sex that does not involve penetration, so that you can keep a regular tampon or menstrual cup. This is your chance to try mutual masturbation and give your clitoris the attention it deserves! Dry humping is also an option. For oral sex, be aware that there is a possible taste of iron, due to the blood, during cunnilingus. In short, it's up to everyone to set their own limits.

Why do you want to have sex on your period more?

Around the time of their period, some women report a spike in libido. According to a 2003 study by the Association of Reproductive Health Professionals, 62% of women have a spike in sex drive during menstruation. Yet it is around the time of ovulation that hormones are said to be boiling.

There are other hypotheses that explain the increased libido during menstruation for physiological reasons. It is known that sex releases endorphins. So having sex during your period releases stress and helps relieve period pain. "I have noticed that sex can help relieve my period pain.", confirms Jane. Then the vagina is naturally "lubricated" during menstruation. Result: at the idea of ​​penetration even easier than usual, the desire to make love can increase. Finally, another hypothesis advanced by science: the increase in libido during menstruation could be due to the fact that the chances of getting pregnant are lower during this period. Relieved of this stress, women would be more inclined to indulge in sex.

Can you get pregnant during your period?

Yes. It's rare, but it can happen. It is therefore very important to use the contraceptive method of your choice. Usually, ovulation occurs around the 14th day after the start of your last period, but this varies among women. This figure is an approximation, which should be taken with care. Ovulation can therefore start earlier or later.

Sperm can live for about two to three days, sometimes even up to five days. If you ovulate early, if you have sex at the end of your period, there is a risk of getting pregnant.

Making love during your period: should you use a condom?

It is imperative to use a condom (male or female) and / or a dental dam during sex during menstruation. It is necessary to protect yourself if you and your partner have not been tested and if you are not exclusive. While the risk still exists, it is even greater during menstruation since the blood promotes the transmission of infections. In addition, the cervix is ​​more open during the period of menstruation and therefore allows more STIs to pass.

Some tips to make it go well

• Communicate with your partner. Let him know how you feel about having sex during your period and ask him / her what he / she thinks about it. If any of you are hesitant, discuss the reasons for the discomfort.
• If you have a tampon, remove it before having penetrative sex.
• Keep a washcloth or wet wipes by the bed for cleaning up afterwards.
• Use a condom to protect yourself from STIs and unintended pregnancy.
• If your usual sex position is uncomfortable, try something different.

See also: "Viva la Vulva": the Nana campaign which breaks the taboo around the female sex

Video by Marion Dos Santos Clara