(CR!S) While period sex can get a little messy, there are also many benefits to getting it on while she’s “on the rag.”
Here are five reasons you should..
1. Orgasms Relieve Cramps
Orgasms release oxytocin, dopamine, and endorphins in the brain. In addition to triggering pleasant sensations during and after the deed, oxytocin and dopamine act as natural painkillers and decrease the severity of cramps and PMS pain.
These also act as mood-elevators. If you’re feeling grumpy during period week, sex may be a better antidote than a pint of Ben & Jerry’s.
Sex can even provide relief from period migraines and cluster headaches, according to a 2013 study published in Cephalalgia.
Some women even say that orgasms are more intense when they’re cycling. Why not find out if she’s one of these lucky ladies?
2. Face it— she’s really f***ing horny.
If she’s feeling frisky as “shark week” approaches, it’s not all in her head—her genitals and pelvic area become increasingly swollen before and during menstruation, which makes you physically crave sex.
Several days into her cycle, her testosterone levels spike, which causes her sex drive to be most intense about halfway through period week.
3. Period blood is nature’s lubricant.
Menstrual blood is a convenient, natural alternative to over the counter lubricants.
As Amanda Chatel points out on Bustle, it’s also worth noting that “period blood” isn’t all that bloody. Most of period fluid consists of uterine lining, or endometrial tissue, which varies in color and texture.
Still feeling squeamish? The color red is also psychologically linked to arousal, power and virility. Just think of it as a sexy, red power lube.
4. Having sex can make her period shorter.
Orgasms make your uterus contract, which rapidly flushes out blood and uterine lining. This means that in addition to relieving painful cramps, sex can also curb the length of her period. Win. Win.
5. It isn’t gross.
A 2012 study found that arousal overrides feelings of disgust during intercourse, which helps explain why certain sexual acts don’t feel icky in the moment that might otherwise. It also means that you (her sex partner) is likely to feel more turned on than grossed out—even if you’re initially weary of period sex.
Some couples even find that period sex is more intimate than intercourse at other times of the month.
“I’ve had period sex during casual flings and in long-term relationships, but in both cases, the level of intimacy immediately increased just knowing that my partner was comfortable and turned on despite or even because I was menstruating,” Kristin Collins Jackson wrote on the Frisky.
While Aunt Flo might leave your sheets a little messy, the physical and mental benefits of period sex can make her cycle far more pleasant, and even spice up your sex life. And no more blue balls. A big win for you.