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As long as both partners are comfortable with it (and it’s done safely), there is no reason to avoid sexual activity during a woman’s menstrual period. In fact, some women find themselves more interested in sex while they are menstruating.

However, couples should still practice safe sex during this time, as unplanned pregnancies and transmission of sexually transmitted infections are possible.

Unplanned Pregnancy

For most women, the chances of becoming pregnant during “period sex” are relatively low because of ovulation cycles. But every woman’s cycle is different, and factors like external stress, uterine fibroids and endometriosis can make cycles difficult to predict. In addition, sperm cells can live for up to five days after a man ejaculates, so fertilizing an egg is quite possible. Unless they wish to conceive, fertile couples should always use a birth control method during sex

Note: For women who take birth control pills, sex during the placebo week is unlikely to result in pregnancy as long as the pills are taken exactly as prescribed. If they are not, then another form of contraception is recommended.

Infections

Safe sex practices are important regardless of whether a woman is menstruating or not. However, during her period, a woman’s cervix opens a bit to allow menstrual blood to flow through. So she might be at greater risk for germs (bacteria, virus or parasite) to travel past the cervix and into the uterus.

Viruses like HIV and hepatitis B and C can be transmitted through menstrual blood as well. Condoms (and dental dams if couples practice oral sex) are essential if a partner’s sexually transmitted infection (STI) status is unknown or questionable.

Benefits

For some women, sex during menstruation has benefits:

Hormonal changes during this time could boost sex drive.
Menstrual blood provides more lubrication, so intercourse may be more comfortable.
Endorphins released during orgasm might relieve low mood or menstrual cramps.

Couples considering sex during menstruation might want to talk about it first. Menstrual discharge is natural and normal, but it’s not appealing to every partner.

Period sex can also get a bit messy. If this is a concern, couples can place a dark towel on the bed to protect the sheets or try having sex in the shower (being extra careful not to slip). Women might also try using a disposable menstrual cup. (Note: Not all menstrual cups can be worn during sex, so it’s important to check with a doctor or pharmacist if there are any questions.)

Resources

EverydayHealth.com

Kraft, Amy

“Is It Safe to Have Sex During Your Period?”

(Last updated: February 17, 2016)

https://www.everydayhealth.com/news/it-safe-have-sex-during-your-period/

Theobald, Mikel

“5 Ways Hepatitis C Can Be Spread”

(Last updated: May 2, 2018)

https://www.everydayhealth.com/hs/hepatitis-c-management/how-hepatitis-c-spreads/

Go Ask Alice! (Columbia University)

“Cunnilingus and menstruation?”