Can women have sexual intercourse during menstruation?
The topic of sexual activity during menstruation has long been a subject of debate within the fields of sexology and medicine. Menstrual intercourse is not the "great scourge" it is often made out to be; there is no definitive conclusion within either domestic or international discourse that categorically prohibits sexual activity during this time. However, the general consensus leans towards discouraging it. Should one choose to engage in sexual activity during menstruation, it is imperative to proceed with greater caution than usual.
1、Hygiene Before and After Sexual Activity
Current research often highlights that sexual activity during menstruation is a risk factor for infections. During menstruation, the endometrium undergoes extensive shedding, leaving it exposed, and numerous small blood vessels within the uterus rupture, significantly increasing capillary permeability. These changes reduce the local resistance of the reproductive organs, creating favorable conditions for pathogens to invade and greatly increasing the risk of infections and inflammation. Additionally, menstrual blood and discharge serve as an excellent "culture medium" for bacteria, promoting their growth and reproduction.
Therefore, during menstruation—a period of heightened infection risk—maintaining hygiene before and after sexual activity is crucial. Cleaning the genital area before intercourse is essential, especially for men, who should retract the foreskin to ensure thorough cleaning and avoid harboring dirt. After intercourse, it is important not to fall asleep immediately; instead, both partners should wash again and change their clothes. Women should also replace their sanitary pads.
2、Contraception During Menstrual Sex
Many believe that contraception is unnecessary during menstrual sex, which is a misconception. For women with irregular menstrual cycles or shorter cycles, ovulation can still occur during menstruation, making pregnancy a possibility. Therefore, if there are no plans for conception, it is important to use condoms during menstrual sex—not only for contraception but also for maintaining hygiene.
3、Monitoring Bleeding Before and After Sexual Activity
During menstruation, the local blood clotting function differs from normal. To facilitate the smooth discharge of menstrual blood, the endometrium contains numerous active substances that convert plasminogen into plasmin, breaking down fibrin into fluid components. Other active enzymes in the endometrium can also disrupt clotting factors, impairing blood coagulation. During menstrual sex, uterine contractions and pressure changes may temporarily increase bleeding. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid intercourse during heavy bleeding. If engaging in sexual activity, men should be gentle to prevent injury and excessive bleeding. After intercourse, monitor the amount of bleeding. If bleeding is heavy and does not stop within a short time, seek medical attention promptly.
