Does your period leave you doubled over with cramps and holed up in bed? Periods can be draining and painful, and the symptoms can’t always be controlled by medication. Luckily, there are other ways to address the pain and discomfort.
Exercise is a common one, releasing endorphins and boosting your energy levels. Diet is another: try foods rich in iron and Vitamin D to improve energy levels and fight fatigue. However, a lesser-known, but still highly-effective way to improve your period symptoms is sex.
Here are the ways that physical intimacy can alleviate menstrual discomfort, improve your symptoms and lead to an easier, more comfortable period:
Sex shortens period length
Vaginal intercourse and orgasms encourage the uterine muscles to contract. Not only does this move blood through the vagina faster, but it also causes the uterus to shed its lining faster than it would on its own. Therefore, sex can naturally stimulate the brain and body to end menstruation and continue with the rest of your menstrual cycle.
Provides cramp relief
These uterine contractions are also what provide menstrual cramp relief. The muscle movement helps expel compounds in the uterus that cause cramping, effectively putting an end to cramps and preventing them from starting up again. Plus, orgasms release endorphins and oxytocin, feel-good hormones which can act as natural pain-relievers. They can also relieve headaches or muscle tension that often accompany periods.
If you’re still experiencing severe cramps, you can also try some natural remedies like dietary supplements or vitamins which can reduce tenderness, swelling, and cramps.
Improves mood
Similarly, these hormones can boost mood and energy levels, alleviating PMS symptoms, stress, or irritability. It can also strengthen your relationship with your partner and make you feel more comfortable in your body. The better you feel physically, mentally, and emotionally, the better your mood and overall outlook will be.
Tips for Intimacy on Your Period
Some women crave physical intimacy during their periods while others don’t. Just be sure to listen to your body: don’t force yourself to have sex if you’re not in the mood. But, if you’re ready to get down, keep these tips in mind for a comfortable experience:
- Do some planning. Not all sex benefits from spontaneity, especially during your period. While the period is a beautiful and natural thing, there are aspects of it that make some women feel a little self-conscious. If there’s anything about your own period that you don’t want to showcase to a partner, plan for it ahead of time. Whether it’s using an odor-wicking wipe, or dark-colored sheets that help avoid noticeable stains, taking a few steps ahead of time can make the whole experience much more comfortable and prevent you from stressing.
- Check-in with your partner. Make sure you and your partner are on the same page. Do they have any questions about menstruation? Ask them about their comfort levels, turn-ons, and needs. Do they have any sexual insecurities themselves, or even disorders? These are questions that are best to address now, and your honesty about any period insecurities could open a very important dialogue about their own needs.
- Keep in mind: sexual disorders are common, but can often be treated with medication or lifestyle changes and don’t need to interrupt your relationship or prevent you from receiving the menstrual benefits of sex. For example, erectile dysfunction, which affects over half of all men, can be easily treated with a prescription like tadalafil that improves blood flow to the penis, or simply with the maintenance of a healthier weight. Speaking with your partner about these options can keep your relationship flowing smoothly and improve your sexual experience. Alternatively, you can discuss ways to be intimate that don’t involve penetration. No matter what, it’s best to communicate with your partner before having sex at all times, especially while menstruating.
- Don’t forget the important things. It’s easy to get caught up in the moment, but try to keep your wits about you for just long enough to remember a few important details. Firstly, make sure you don’t forget to remove a tampon. This can make it much more difficult and painful to remove later and can even lead to an uncomfortable yeast infection. Also, don’t forget a condom or other form of birth control. While it’s uncommon, it’s still possible to become pregnant on your period, and it’s definitely possible to contract an STI. Condoms are always a good idea, just to be safe.
Use these tips to enjoy menstrual symptom relief and maintain a healthy sex life. Above all, remember to listen to your body and use it as your guide to lifestyle changes.