Does intercourse delay the menstrual cycle? Does sexual activity impact my regular menstrual cycle? These are the common questions that arise from many women when they get their periods delayed.
There are a mix of opinions and answers for these questions. Some people think having sex during menstrual time alleviates cramps and relaxes their body muscles. While others believe that sex increases the blood flow and consider it as dirty.
Of course, the perspective of the individual is different, and everyone has a different opinion. In this article, you’ll be answered for this question. Read the following article and clarify your doubts.
Does Sex Affect the Menstrual Cycle?
This is the most widespread misconception about sexual activity. The answer is literally no. Having sexual intercourse during your period doesn’t affect your menstrual cycle.
Contrarily, it creates various positive changes in your body, like reduced menstrual pain, cramps, and normal blood flow. Unless you feel uncomfortable, you can have sex with your partner during menstrual time.
Impact of Sex on Period Timing and Regularity
Sexual intercourse doesn’t directly impact your menstrual cycle. However, it may influence your period in indirect ways such as:
Pregnancy
If you have unprotected sex during ovulation, then a missed period is a common and early sign of pregnancy.
Stress
Intercourse is a stressful activity for some people, which may affect your menstrual cycle. Chronic stress or anxiety leads to delayed or irregular periods.
Hormonal Changes
During sexual activity, orgasm can lead to a release of hormones like endorphins and oxytocin. These hormones are associated with the feelings of pleasure and bonding with your partner. It may sometimes cause slight differences in the menstrual cycle.
Uterine Contractions
More than hormonal changes, orgasms also trigger the uterine contractions. It shortens your period slightly.
Health Benefits of Sex During the Menstrual Cycle
Sex during a period doesn’t create any negative impacts in your body. However, you can witness some positive changes in your physical and emotional well-being. Here are those:
Alleviating Menstrual Cramps Through Orgasm
Your menstruation occurs from your uterus; it is by trying to expel the endometrial lining through contractions. Sex during this time encourages orgasm to cause contractions in the uterine lining, which helps you relieve stomach pain and menstrual cramps. It releases the happy hormone, endorphins, that makes you feel good and happy. They also help relieve you from cramps and discomfort.
Improved Mood and Reduced PMS Symptoms
Having sex during menstrual time can actually be beneficial. It reduces menstrual pain and PMS symptoms like mood swings, breast tenderness, irritability, bloating, food cravings, etc. It naturally boosts your physical and emotional well-being, resulting in reduced stress and anxiety. Additionally, the contractions during orgasms increase the menstrual blood flow, preventing longer period days.
Potential Side Effects of Sex During Menstruation
Some potential impacts that you need to know about sex during menstruation:
Pregnancy
Though pregnancy possibilities are low, it is not completely impossible. Sperm can survive in the woman’s body for 49 to 72 hours. If your ovulation occurs after a period, the chances of conception are high.
Risk of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
The risk of sexually transmitted infections during your period is high. To protect yourself from such infections, you can use protective methods like dental dams or condoms.
Pain
It might be painful during or after intercourse or at the end of your menstrual cycle. It may cause pain in your thighs and lower back.
Managing Discomfort and Hygiene During Period Sex
To manage your comfort, discuss with your partner what feels comfortable to you. Before having sex, remove the menstrual cup or tampons to avoid bacterial infections. It is advisable to take a warm shower or bath, which keeps you relaxed.
Tips for Having Safe and Comfortable Period Sex
Do you want to enjoy your sex during your period? Then here are some tips listed below:
- Talk to your partner to discuss what makes both of you comfortable while having sex during menstruation.
- It is important to spread the dark-colored sheet or cloth on your bed to avoid a mess or dirty feel.
- Ensure removing tampons or menstrual cups before having sex. It prevents them from going too far inside the vagina.
- It is advisable to wear contraceptives to prevent the chances of STIs and pregnancy.
- Take a warm bath and clean up your vagina with a wet cloth.
Final Thoughts
Menstrual cycles and intercourse are not enemies to be afraid of. It creates various positive changes in your body and makes you feel comfortable without pain or cramps. As long as your partner feels comfortable, there is no trouble in having sex during a period.
No, there is no evidence that sexual activity during a period can delay your menstrual cycle. However, some other reasons may be a cause, such as illness, stress, anxiety, or hormonal birth control.
Yes, it is completely safe to have sex during pregnancy. But still you need to be aware of certain impacts like chances of pregnancy, STDs, weight changes, hormonal imbalances, etc. If you decide to have a sexual activity, discuss with your partner about both of your comfort levels.
Sex during menstruation doesn’t directly impact your period cramps. But the release of hormones like endorphins can relieve pain and discomfort. It helps expel menstrual blood faster, preventing a longer day period.
No, there is no relation between menstrual blood and sperm viability. Sperm can survive in a woman’s reproductive system for up to five days even if she is menstruating. It means that there is a possibility to get pregnant during ovulation after her periods.
Yes, there are some health risks associated with sexual activity during menstruation. They include:
- Chances of getting pregnant
- Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis
