Can you have sexual intercourse during menstruation?

Women experience menstruation each month. Due to significant blood loss, their bodies become physically weaker and their immunity declines during this period; therefore, special attention should be paid to physical care and dietary management.

Many couples wonder whether sexual intercourse is permissible during menstruation—so, is it safe to have sex during menstruation?

Is Sexual Intercourse Safe During Menstruation?

Sexual intercourse is generally not recommended during menstruation. Engaging in intercourse at this time may increase the risk of infection, dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation), and other adverse health effects. During menstruation, the cervical canal remains open; thus, intercourse—often introducing bacteria—can facilitate ascending bacterial infection through the cervical canal into the uterine cavity. In severe cases, bacteria may even reach the pelvic cavity, causing pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Chronic or recurrent PID can damage the fallopian tube mucosa and impair reproductive function. Additionally, intercourse may trigger uterine contractions, exacerbating menstrual pain and promoting retrograde menstrual flow.

Sexual intercourse is best avoided during menstruation. It significantly increases the risk of bacterial infection and endometritis. It is advisable to wait until menstruation has completely ceased before resuming intercourse. Intercourse during menstruation predisposes women to vaginitis and other gynecological infections. Bacteria introduced during intercourse may ascend into the uterine cavity, triggering gynecological inflammation; bilateral fallopian tubes may also become adhered, potentially leading to infertility.

In daily life, women should ensure adequate rest and avoid staying up late during menstruation. Nutrition should be enhanced, while raw, cold, spicy, or otherwise irritating foods should be avoided. Maintaining a positive emotional state and abstaining from sexual intercourse are also recommended. We hope this information proves helpful.