"Seventy percent of women state that they do not have sex during menstruation. Despite outdated notions and disgust, sex and menstruation are not opposites. We will tell you more about it.
1- Menstrual bleeding and hormonal changes in women: What are the symptoms?
Hormones play an essential role in the functioning of the individual phases of the female cycle. In fact, the ovaries are stimulated by FSH, also known as follicle-stimulating hormone, and LH (luteinizing hormone) under the influence of the pituitary gland. The ovaries, in turn, release progesterone and estrogen into the bloodstream, both of which are hormones that affect the uterus. Depending on the amount of these two hormones in the body, which depends on the current phase of the menstrual cycle, certain symptoms may occur in women, especially during menstruation:
- On the first day of menstruation, the hormones progesterone and estrogen are at their lowest level, which sometimes leads to very painful cramps in the lower back and/or lower abdomen throughout the entire period or on certain days of menstruation . These cramps are triggered by other hormones: the prostaglandins. The uterus contracts to expel blood and excess uterine lining; this is menstruation.
- "Through the bloodstream, prostaglandins can also trigger diarrhea and nausea during menstruation."
- Swollen or painful breasts are another possible symptom of menstruation; this is related to an excess of estrogen in the body at the time of menstruation.
- The above-mentioned prostaglandins can also trigger headaches during menstruation.
- A hormonal imbalance, particularly regarding estrogen, can affect the neurotransmitters in the brain. This phenomenon leads to, among other things, difficulty falling asleep and mood disorders. You may have already noticed that you are more irritable, sad, or anxious than usual during your period. Such mood swings can be caused by Premenstrual Syndrome, which means significant limitations for some women.
- "During menstruation, you are also more susceptible to hot flashes and excessive sweating, as the sweat glands are stimulated by hormonal fluctuations."
- Finally acne outbreaks can also occur before and at the beginning of menstruation, as well as severe fatigue. Such a lack of energy is often due to heavy bleeding, which leads to a decrease in iron and red blood cells in the blood.
2- Outdated Notions of Sex During Menstruation
One cannot have sex during the period.
This false notion may stem from the fact that some couples feel uncomfortable thinking about sex during menstruation, even though it is indeed possible to have sex during menstruation . Doctors do not advise against it, on the contrary. Protect your bed sheets with a towel to avoid staining, or enjoy a shared shower to be safe from spots. To protect your clothing, the period panties are recommended.
Do not practice cunnilingus during menstruation...
Since the clitoris is located separately from the vagina, oral sex is also possible when a woman is menstruating. In the shower, oral sex can be easier, as the risk of odors or stains on sheets and clothing is avoided here.
Sex during menstruation is painful for women.
Hormones can lead to insufficient lubrication and more sensitive vaginal walls, especially during heavy bleeding. This does not apply to all women, but if it is the case for you, a simple lubricant can help. Since the cervix is lower and more sensitive during menstruation, some positions may be uncomfortable or even painful. Just choose a position that does not cause pain during penetration. So, sex during menstruation is not painful for all women: only some women feel uncomfortable during penetration. In this case, you should guide your partner to the right position. A orgasm that releases endorphins (or pleasure hormones) can reduce the pain associated with menstruation (cramps, headaches, etc.) significantly. A good reason not to miss out!
3- Sex during menstruation: Useful information and precautions
Having sex during menstruation is certainly possible if both partners wish to, but contrary to some beliefs, menstruation does not protect against a possible pregnancy. Of course, it marks the end of the cycle, so the risk is lower but not nonexistent. Additionally, the fact that sperm can survive in the vagina for up to 4 days cannot be ignored, which is why a local or oral contraceptive is essential!
During sex while menstruating, you are not protected from sexually transmitted infections; on the contrary, the risk is increased. You should also be careful and protect yourself. Additionally, the symptoms of menstruation can resemble certain sexually transmitted diseases: headaches, fatigue, cramps, abdominal pain... Every woman should know her cycles and the associated symptoms to easily distinguish between menstruation and infection.
Pay attention to avoid stress and poor nutrition during menstruation; both factors also promote sexually transmitted diseases such as genital herpes.
"If you do not experience any special pain or excessive discomfort regarding the situation during your period, sex and menstruation are by no means incompatible. As long as you continue to protect yourselves and adjust your practices to any potential pain or discomfort, you do not have to forgo these intimate moments if you feel like it."
