What Are the Risks of Sexual Intercourse During Menstruation?
Jul 31, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
Having sexual intercourse during menstruation poses health risks for women, including an increased likelihood of infection—such as endometritis, vaginitis, and cervicitis—and may even lead to infertility. During menstruation, the endometrium sheds and bleeds, leaving fresh wounds in the uterine cavity; the cervical os is slightly dilated, and vaginal acidity decreases, significantly weakening the body’s natural defense against pathogens.
In today’s society, many women pay insufficient attention to local hygiene and care. Engaging in sexual intercourse during pregnancy or menstruation poses significant health risks—what are the specific hazards of having sex during menstruation?
Hazards of Sexual Intercourse During Menstruation
Having sex during menstruation increases the risk of infection, potentially leading to endometritis, vaginitis, cervicitis, and even infertility. During menstruation, the endometrium sheds and bleeds, leaving fresh wounds in the uterine cavity; the cervical os is slightly dilated, and vaginal acidity decreases—significantly weakening the body’s natural defense against pathogens. Under these conditions, sexual activity can introduce bacteria into the reproductive tract, triggering inflammation of the genital organs. If such inflammation spreads to the fallopian tubes, it may cause adhesions and tubal obstruction.
Uterine contractions induced by intercourse during menstruation may force menstrual blood into the peritoneal cavity, increasing the risk of endometriosis. Additionally, some sperm and other components of semen may enter the woman’s bloodstream through microscopic tears in small blood vessels, stimulating the immune system to produce anti-sperm antibodies—potentially resulting in immunological infertility. Moreover, the body is generally weakened during menstruation, with diminished qi and blood, and the cervical os remains dilated; therefore, sexual intercourse is strictly contraindicated during this period.
In addition to abstaining from sexual activity during menstruation, women should also take precautions to stay warm and avoid exposure to cold. They should refrain from consuming raw or cold foods and instead focus on enhancing their nutritional intake—particularly high-quality, protein-rich foods. We hope this information proves helpful to you!
