Is It Safe to Have Sex During the Last Days of Your Period?

Q: Is It Safe to Have Sex During the Last Days of Your Period?

Hello, the questioner： Engaging in sexual intercourse towards the end of menstruation theoretically should not have any adverse effects on the body. <br>However, some individuals may still experience mild menstrual cramps or discomfort, or may have concerns regarding cleanliness.

Is it easier to get an infection from sexual intercourse during the last few days of menstruation?

Hello, doctor.
I have a stable boyfriend, and I always insist that he wears a condom during intercourse.
However, when he does wear one, he often has difficulty ejaculating, and after a long time, he still doesn't feel anything.
Over time, he has become more resistant to using condoms.
We do not plan to get pregnant, and we previously considered using oral contraceptive pills, but I am still afraid, so we mostly rely on condoms for contraception.
My boyfriend occasionally asks if we can have unprotected intercourse during the last few days of my menstrual period, which makes me a bit uncomfortable.
I would like to ask you the following questions:
1.
If we have intercourse during the last few days of my period, will it have any negative effects on my vagina? I am quite afraid of infections, as I have experienced them before (with symptoms like frequent urination and blood in my urine).
After each encounter, I wash immediately and have asked my boyfriend to clean himself beforehand.
2.
When we have intercourse during the last few days of my period, my boyfriend sometimes wants to ejaculate inside me.
Is this harmful to my body? I am worried that semen might not be completely expelled and could lead to bacterial growth.
3.
Is using oral contraceptive pills really more effective than using condoms for contraception? My boyfriend and I have a great relationship, but I really don't want sexual issues to cause problems between us.
Please give me your advice.
Thank you for taking the time to read my questions!

dd, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/01/09

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the questioner: Engaging in sexual intercourse towards the end of menstruation theoretically should not have any adverse effects on the body.
However, some individuals may still experience mild menstrual cramps or discomfort, or may have concerns regarding cleanliness.
If these issues are not present, there is no need for restriction.
The failure rates of contraceptive methods are approximately 0.5% for preemptive contraceptive pills, about 5% for condoms, and around 3% for emergency contraceptive pills (taken within 72 hours after intercourse).
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2012/01/09

More Info

When considering the safety of having sex during the last days of your menstrual period, there are several factors to take into account, particularly regarding health risks, pregnancy concerns, and personal comfort.
1. Health Risks and Infections: Engaging in sexual activity during menstruation can pose certain health risks, particularly if there is a history of urinary tract infections (UTIs) or other infections. The vagina and cervix are more open during menstruation, which may increase the risk of introducing bacteria. If you have previously experienced symptoms like frequent urination or blood in your urine, it’s crucial to be cautious. Ensuring both partners maintain good hygiene—such as washing before and after sex—can help mitigate some risks. However, it’s important to note that while menstrual blood itself is not inherently harmful, it can provide a medium for bacteria if proper hygiene is not observed.

2. Semen Retention and Health Concerns: If your boyfriend wishes to ejaculate inside you during this time, it’s understandable to have concerns about semen retention and potential bacterial growth. While the body is generally capable of expelling semen, if you are uncomfortable with this practice, it’s essential to communicate your feelings to your partner. If you are worried about the potential for infections or other complications, using a condom can provide a barrier that reduces the risk of both sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unwanted pregnancy.

3. Effectiveness of Birth Control Methods: Regarding the effectiveness of birth control methods, it’s important to understand that while condoms are effective at preventing pregnancy and STIs, they can sometimes reduce sensation, which may lead to frustration for some partners. On the other hand, hormonal contraceptives, such as birth control pills, can be more effective at preventing pregnancy when taken correctly. However, they do not protect against STIs. Many couples find that a combination of methods—such as using condoms along with hormonal birth control—can provide both pregnancy prevention and protection against STIs.

In conclusion, if you and your boyfriend are considering having sex during the last days of your period, it’s crucial to prioritize communication and mutual comfort. Discuss your concerns openly, and consider using condoms consistently to protect against STIs and unwanted pregnancy. If you are considering hormonal birth control, consult with a healthcare provider to discuss the best options for your situation. Ultimately, the key is to ensure that both partners feel safe and comfortable with their choices regarding sexual activity.

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