Period SEX: Great, not gross, says this guy

Great, not gross, says this guy: Joe DeMarini makes the case for having sex when you’ve got your period (and why your guy should be into it too)...

Portrait of Tammy Strobel

Great, not gross, says this guy: Joe DeMarini makes the case for having sex when you’ve got your period (and why your guy should be into it too)... 

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As my Italian friend once said, “a good captain can sail the red sea.” He’s absolutely right. If either you or your man feel faint from a few drops of blood, that’s one thing, but it’s high time the “gross” factor was removed from the discussion of period sex. It’s a natural process and, honestly, sex is already messy. So, allow me to make my case:

You want it

Women typically have heightened libidos right before and during their periods, and there’s no reason to let a little blood (30 to 40 millilitres over several days, on average) get in the way of some stellar sexy times. Your period hasn’t stopped you from doing anything else, has it? That insatiable desire makes it a great opportunity to bust out some of those kinks you’ve been wondering about, too, and he’d be crazy to turn down the chance to try something new.

He totally digs it

So he may not be a “bloodhound” (yes, that is the term for dudes who are super into period sex), but I can guarantee you that he’s got bigger concerns than a little blood — like STIs and pregnancy. Yes, pregnant, because you can still get pregnant on your period, so protection is still essential. Plus, if he’s genuinely into you, something that happens to most women on Earth isn’t going to deter him from a fantastic night.

Everything is electric

Because your pelvic area and genitals are extra swollen during your period, everything is far more sensitive than usual. This is a blessing and a curse: take it slower at the beginning, so that when things really get heated, everybody’s having a good time. Luckily, period blood can act as a natural lubricant, so things should glide along smoothly.

Sweet relief

Orgasms are the ultimate painkiller: they can relieve cramps and the symptoms of PMS effortlessly. Orgasms can even shorten periods! The associated contractions of the uterus expels blood and lining more quickly than the natural process alone. And hey, this is something you don’t need anyone else to do for you.

Manage the mess 

One of the most common criticisms is the related mess (cue “Red Wedding” comparisons) but that’s kind of a cop-out. If you’re that worried about your sheets, throw a towel down or take it to the shower. Another thing to keep in mind is gravity: if you’re on top, blood is more likely to leak out — let the forces of nature work with you, not against you.

Go with the flow

The most important thing about period sex, as with all sex, is you. If it’s not your thing, then it’s not your thing. Consider, though, whether your hang-ups are internal (you’ve decided it’s weird) or external (your partner/society has decided it’s weird). Likewise, if your guy isn’t interested in period sex, that’s fine too. Just be wary: it’s one thing to be turned off by the sight of blood, but if he still expects you to please him without reciprocation, then maybe he doesn’t have your needs at heart. The “period week is blowjob week” mantra needs to be put to pasture ASAP. Sex is supposed to be fun and natural, so why not get out there, have fun and take a cruise on the red sea?

CLEO Bachelors say yay or nay to period sex

Honest thoughts (with no names attached).

“I don’t mind if she’s open to the idea. I think it’s an interesting experience, and the sight of blood isn’t a turn off to me”

“Period?! Woohoo BJ week!”

“I think it’s fine – this just really boils down to spontaneity. If she has to deal with it every month, I don’t see why I shouldn’t deal with it with her when she wants a little sextisfaction.”

Still-life Photography Raymond Toh (www.vineyardproduction.sg) Text Joe DeMarini.