Why sex can help your menstrual cramps and other benefits of period sex

• Sex helps with menstrual cramps because orgasming releases endorphins, which can help dull pain and even soothe other PMS symptoms like headaches.
• Period sex may also reduce stress and help you feel more lubricated.
• If you're worried about a mess during period sex, try putting a towel down first or having sex in the shower.

Many people shy away from period sex. However, having sex while you're on your period can certainly still be enjoyable. Plus, it can actually result in some unexpected benefits that might make your period more bearable.

If you're comfortable communicating with your partner, you may want to discuss the potential benefits of period sex. Here's what you need to know.

Sex helps get rid of period cramps

Cramps are one of the top complaints when people have their periods. Luckily, period sex can help relieve these cramps, says Sherry A. Ross, MD, OB/GYN and women's health expert in Santa Monica, California, and author of "She-ology" and "She-ology. The She-quel." Menstrual cramps are caused by the uterus contracting to help it shed its lining, which is triggered by the release of hormones called prostaglandins. Orgasms from sex contract and then relax the uterus, which can relieve pain from cramps, says Ross.

Aside from this physical relaxation of the uterus, there are also feel-good hormones released when you have an orgasm, called endorphins, says Ross. Endorphins activate opioid receptors in the body, which can help temporarily relieve pain. Opioid receptors are part of a system in the body that controls pain.

Because of this, pain from cramps can be relieved whether they are period cramps or premenstrual syndrome (PMS) cramps that occur one to three days before your period. These natural painkillers can also help with other aches and pains related to your period, like headaches.

---

You don't need to have partnered sex in order to experience these benefits - solo sex works, too. Ross says that orgasming from masturbation will produce these beneficial effects, as well.

If you are having partnered sex, be sure to use a condom to protect you from STIs and unwanted pregnancy.

Other benefits of period sex

If relief from cramps isn't enough to get you excited about period sex, there are a few other benefits, too.

• Natural lubrication: Ross says some folks experience more lubrication because there is more blood flow to the vagina and uterus during your period. Plus, period blood itself can act as a natural lubricant.
• Increased sex drive during period: Many folks experience a boost in their libido during ovulation, Ross says. This is when an egg is released, about two weeks before your period begins. While Ross says ovulation is when the hormones are in your favor for greater arousal, some people also report that they experience a higher sex drive during their period.
• Period sex may reduce stress: Sex is a great stress reliever, Ross says. Similar to the reason why period sex can relieve cramps, the mood boost can be linked to the endorphins that are released during sex. Additionally, orgasms release the hormone oxytocin, which can counteract the effects of the stress hormone cortisol, also making you feel more relaxed.

Insider's takeaway

If you and your partner are comfortable having period sex, there's no reason you shouldn't indulge in it. You can experience the multiple health benefits and bring some much-needed fun into menstruation. If you're worried about a mess during period sex, try shower sex or putting down a towel first.

Related articles from Health Reference:

• Does masturbation help your immune system? An orgasm may have benefits
• Sex burns about 3 to 4 calories per minute - here's how to burn a little more
• 5 major health benefits of sex
• How to last longer during sex
• The truth about period syncing and the real reason you may be experiencing it