10 reasons you should be masturbating during your period

Masturbation could improve your period

In these divisive times, there’s one thing we can all agree on – and that’s orgasms = good. Whether you’re a conservative Republican or a far-left Democrat, chances are, you wouldn’t turn down one of the best feelings in the world.    

Orgasms are great for obvious reasons, they have great health benefits such as relieving stress, and hitting that sweet crotch high can momentarily take your mind off whatever it is that’s bringing you down.  

But as fantastic as orgasms are, the mental high isn’t the only reason to make sweet love to yourself, especially during your period. When it comes to alleviating some of the unpleasant symptoms and uncomfortable feelings sometimes associated with this stage of your cycle, it’s mostly about the journey (and not necessarily the destination).

Here are 10 reasons why you should be masturbating every single day during your period.

Your breasts can be massaged to help with tenderness.

In the time around your menstruation, breasts can become extra tender, making them feel heavier, swollen, and just uncomfortable. Lying down and giving your boobs some much-needed massage as self foreplay serves the dual purpose of stimulating arousal and getting you ready for that wonderful good feeling (hello, sexual pleasure!), and giving you an opportunity to check for any anomalies in their texture. 

Your back will appreciate the break while you’re laying down.

Some unlucky people get period fatigue. Some also get back pain during their period, perhaps due to the hokey-pokey your uterine lining is performing in this time of the month while it’s shedding and releasing prostaglandins. Just having a nice lay down can provide a nice back pain relief, so take it easy.

Masturbating while on your period before bed can help you sleep.

During this time of your cycle, you could experience poor sleep: either difficulty getting to sleep and/or staying asleep. One of the best times to masturbate is right before bed, and some science suggests that orgasms can be a good idea to help you get to sleep easier.¹

Release feel-good chemicals.²

Some people experience sadness and/or get very emotional during this time in their cycle. Like, cry at Charmin commercials sad. (It’s me. I’m the people.) Thanks to the release of endorphins, a good old-fashioned orgasm session is an excellent way to turn a frown upside down, regardless of the kind of sexual activity you are engaging in. Enjoy the extra lubrication brought to you by your period. The increased blood flow to your pelvic area during menstruation can actually enhance your body’s natural lubrication.

As a natural lubricant, menstrual blood can reduce irritation due to friction, thus making masturbation more comfortable and sexual activity a more pleasurable experience. So, why not take advantage of this natural dopamine boost and indulge in some self-care down there? However, if you’re on a light flow day (a.k.a. very small amounts of blood), use lube to avoid potential irritation/friction.

Food and self-love: a great combination.

Incorporating sexy foods like chocolate sauce and other sweets doesn’t have to be something you only do during partnered sex. Who says you can’t grab a can of whipped cream and get wild with your own genitals? You do you. Literally.

As your level of sexual desire changes, solo pleasure and experimenting with treats like these can become even more enjoyable.

Could help you focus.

Foggy period brain is said to be a thing, but you know what else is a thing? The sharpness of a mind driven by sexual desire. It’s literally one-track, and it can help reset your thoughts if they’re swirling too fast.

Need orgasms more than ever when you’re menstruating.

Even though period sex can be a fantastic undertaking, aside from the discomfort of cramping, some people still experience low mood and aren’t super excited to throw that old towel or sex blanket down and get to business when they’re bleeding, but being shy is no reason you should go without. You need the good feeling chemicals sex releases now more than ever, and masturbating can be a great way and a healthy activity to achieve this.

Could help soothe your cramps.

People who menstruate spends a quarter of their reproductive years bleeding. Trying to do anything while your uterus contracts and you experience intense period cramps due to your menstrual cycle can be nothing short of infuriating. You want me to exercise? Hard pass. I think I’ll take a small, vibrating machine to my genitals and release some natural pain relievers, instead. Oh, and did we mention that an orgasm could help with headaches and could even influence in the flow and lenght of your period – perhaps even make your period end sooner?

Time is improved by multiple orgasms.

Withdrawing from social situations can be a common side effect of your period. This is a great time to know yourself better, inside and out, no judgements. This process of self-exploration can lead to personal growth, increased self-acceptance, and a deeper connection with your innermost desires and beliefs. Masturbation during your period is generally safe, but some people may experience mild discomfort or cramping due to increased blood flow and heightened sensitivity during menstruation. Listening to your body and adjusting your approach can help ensure a comfortable experience.

Yourself can remind you of how beautiful you are.

Yes, you! When you’re bleeding, bloated and breaking out because of your biology it’s easy to forget you’re absolutely a stunning person. Stop and reconnect with your wonderful body.

Is it safe to masturbate during your period?

Yes, masturbating during your period is safe. It can relieve menstrual cramps and boost mood by releasing an amount of oxytocin, endorphins, and serotonin. Just maintain good hygiene: wash your hands before and after, and sanitize any sex toys or use a sex toy cleaner before and after use.

It’s also completely normal to experience to feel more aroused during your period. Hormone level fluctuations can increase sensitivity and sex drive.

Psychological factors can sometimes enhance sexual experiences during menstruation. This might be the best possible time to connect with your body. Exploring self-pleasure can lead to a deeper understanding of your desires and an appreciation for the beauty and this aspect of your sexuality. There’s no shame in experiencing pleasure and comfort during your period, it’s part of honoring and caring for yourself.

Bonus pro tip:

Can you masturbate on your period? Sure, you can! You can also masturbate while using a Flex disc for a sans-mess option. It all comes down to different preferences.

If you’re a little shy about getting handsy with your menstrual blood, you can try a sex toy such as a dildo or vibrator inside the vagina without risking a period blood stain by popping in a Flex Disc before your session. Alternatively, you can step up your shower game and try some solo shower fun or perhaps even some mutual masturbation if the timing is right.

Suppose you’re more of an external stimulation person (no penetration involved, more of a clitoral stimulation kind of gal). In that case, menstrual products such as Flex Disc or Flex Cup are totally safe to use during period masturbation. Just keep in mind, menstrual cup or tampons = not compatible with penetrative sex.

This article is informational only and is not offered as medical advice, nor does it substitute for a consultation with your physician. If you have any gynecological/medical concerns or conditions, please consult your physician. 

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