Period Sex: Yes, It's Possible & Safe

You've been wondering this for a long time but haven't dared to ask. Your partner is hesitant, and perhaps you are too. Between religious taboos, urban legends about the risks of pregnancy, and the fear of "dangerous blood," Making love during your period remains a very charged subject. Yet the medical answer is simple: yes, it is possible and generally safe. What matters is your comfort for both of you and a few basic precautions.

According to a U.S. study conducted by Intimina, 88% of menstruating people believe there's no shame in having sex during their period. But in reality, many still impose a complete break from their sex lives. This article separates fact from fiction, with scientific figures, practical advice, and a (quick) mention of the religious and mystical aspects that often come up in research.

Yes, It's Absolutely Possible (And Even Beneficial)

Let's start by dispelling the main myth: no, having sex during your period is not dirty, dangerous, or medically prohibited. Menstrual blood is a natural bodily fluid, just like saliva, sweat, or vaginal secretions present during any sexual encounter.

During your period, your uterus sheds the endometrium (the lining that has thickened to accommodate a potential embryo). This process is perfectly natural and does not make your vagina or your blood "impure" or toxic. The only real question is comfort: do you want it? Is your partner comfortable with it?

Real Risks (Without Dramatizing)

Now that we've covered the benefits, let's talk frankly about the risks. Because yes, there are some, but they're exactly the same as at any other point in your cycle if you don't use protection.

Can You Get Pregnant During Your Period?

Yes, even if it's unlikely. The risk isn't zero. We'll explain.

The Risk of Sexually Transmitted Infections

Menstrual blood does not directly increase the risk of STI transmission, but it can facilitate the transmission of certain viruses and bacteria present in the blood, including:

• HIV (AIDS) : The virus is transmitted more easily through blood than through vaginal secretions alone.
• Hepatitis B and C : Also present in the blood
• Other STIs : Chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, papillomavirus are transmitted in the same way as outside of menstruation

Risk of Vaginal or Uterine Infections?

During menstruation, vaginal pH increases slightly (blood is less acidic than normal vaginal secretions), which can theoretically promote the growth of bacteria. But in reality, this risk remains very low if you and your partner practice good hygiene.

🩸 Causes & Treatment of Vaginal Infections →

Is Period Blood Dangerous For Men?

This question comes up often, fueled by ancestral beliefs and persistent taboos. The answer is simple: no, menstrual blood is not dangerous for your male (or female) partner, as long as there are no blood-borne STIs.

Contact with menstrual blood during sexual intercourse does not cause any health problems for a healthy male partner. He will not develop any illnesses, allergies, or unusual reactions. The only risk is blood-borne STIs (HIV, hepatitis), and this risk exists at any time during the cycle if one of the partners is a carrier.

What Religions Say (In Brief)

Since this question regularly comes up in searches, let's take a quick look at religious positions. Spoiler: most major monotheistic religions prohibit or discourage penetrative sex during menstruation.

These religious prohibitions have their roots in ancient texts written at a time when medical knowledge about menstruation was nonexistent. Today, science confirms that there are no health risks to having sex during your period. Whether or not you want to follow these religious prescriptions is up to you; it's a personal and intimate matter.

Mystical Aspects and Beliefs (Soul Bond, Witchcraft)

Some research suggests "soul bonds" or "witchcraft" associated with menstrual sex. These beliefs are based on esoteric traditions or occult practices, with no scientific basis.

Some traditions claim that making love during menstruation creates a particularly strong "soul bond" between partners, or even opens "energy portals." Other beliefs, particularly in certain African or Caribbean cultures, associate menstrual blood with witchcraft or magic.

How to Have Sex Safely During Your Period

If you decide to take the plunge, here are some practical tips to ensure everything goes smoothly and without any hassle.

Communicate with your partner

This is the most essential point. First of all, discuss it openly with your partner. Are you both interested? Does one of you have reservations? Why? There's no shame in saying, "I'm not comfortable with this," or, on the contrary, "It doesn't bother me at all."

Prepare the Ground

Choose Comfortable Positions

Certain positions limit blood flow and reduce the risk of leaks:

• missionary : Classic, comfortable position, the flow remains relatively contained
• Spoon : Shallower penetration (useful if you have cramps), relaxing position
• Avoid positions where you are on top (amazon, cowgirl) if you want to limit the flows
• Beware of the greyhound : Deeper penetration, may be uncomfortable if your uterus is sensitive during menstruation

Always Protect Yourself

It can't be stressed enough: condoms are mandatory if you're not sure you're both free of STIs, and reliable contraception is essential if you don't want to get pregnant. Menstruation doesn't change this golden rule.

What If You Really Don't Want To?

This is perfectly legitimate. Many women have no desire to have sex during their period, for various reasons: intense pain, fatigue, psychological discomfort, heavy flow, or simply because they don't feel it.

Intimacy isn't just about vaginal penetration. If you're not comfortable with the idea of ​​sex during your period, you can explore other forms of pleasure: mutual masturbation, oral sex (on yourself or your partner), toy play, cuddling, and sensual massages. There's no obligation to "enjoy" this time if you don't feel comfortable in your body.

Sources & Scientific References