A common question we get asked at DAME is whether you can have sex while wearing a menstrual cup. The short answer is no, it's not recommended to have penetrative sex while using a menstrual cup. However, there are still ways to enjoy intimacy during your period, which we'll cover in this helpful guide.
Why You Shouldn't Have Penetrative Sex With a Menstrual Cup
Menstrual cups like DAME's reusable menstrual cup are worn internally in the vagina to collect menstrual fluid. They sit lower than a tampon but can still get in the way during intercourse. While there are many pros and cons of period cups, ultimately, having sex while wearing a menstrual cup risks dislodging the cup, leading to leaks and discomfort. The cup could also be pushed too far into the vagina, making removal difficult.
Although all the best menstrual cups are made of body-safe materials like medical-grade silicone, they aren't designed to withstand the friction of sex. Too much pressure could cause the cup to shift out of place or even tear. Overall, keeping your cup in during sex will likely be neither comfortable nor practical.
The Pros and Cons of Period Sex
Even if having sex with a menstrual cup isn't feasible, period sex in general has both advantages and drawbacks. Here's what you should know before getting intimate during menstruation:
Pros of Period Sex
- Orgasms can relieve menstrual cramps by releasing pain-reducing endorphins and oxytocin. Climaxing also causes contractions that can help release menstrual blood and tissue, potentially shortening your period.
- The extra lubrication from menstrual fluid can enhance pleasure and comfort, especially if you typically experience vaginal dryness. Just make sure to use a backup method like period pants to prevent messy leaks.
- Period sex can boost your libido (or sex drive). Many women report feeling more aroused during menstruation due to hormonal fluctuations and increased blood flow to your pelvic region.
Cons of Period Sex
- Period sex can be messy, especially on heavier flow days. You'll likely want a towel or other backup protection to avoid staining your sheets. Have wipes or tissues on hand for quick cleanup.
- Some women feel self-conscious about odours, appearance, or cleanliness during menstruation. Educating yourself on the normalcy of period smells and using shower foreplay to freshen up can help ease your mind.
- Certain period products like menstrual cups or tampons need to be removed first before sex. Leaving them in during sex can be uncomfortable and may cause injury.
Mess-Free Alternatives for Period Sex
The good news is you can absolutely still get intimate while on your period, even if sex with a menstrual cup is off the table. Here are some sexy and mess-free options to try:
- Wear a menstrual disc instead of a cup. Discs sit higher up, right under the cervix, so there's space for penetration. They're a great option for period sex.
- Try period-proof underwear to prevent leaks and stains during foreplay, mutual masturbation, and oral sex. Slip them off if things progress further.
- Stick to outercourse activities like massages with your menstrual cup still in.
- Have sex in the shower to easily rinse away any menstrual fluid. Just remember to remove your cup first and clean it properly afterwards.
The Bottom Line on Sex With Menstrual Cups
While you can't have penetrative sex while wearing a menstrual cup, period sex is still very much on the table. With the right alternatives and a little creativity, getting intimate during menstruation can be just as pleasurable.
Just be sure to take out your menstrual cup first before getting down to business. And when your cycle is over, proper cup care will have it ready to use again next month.
Check out DAME's self-sanitising menstrual cup and experience the future of period protection. With our cup, you'll be ready for anything - even a little between-the-sheets fun during your period. Menstruation doesn't have to put your sex life on pause!
