Millions of readers rely on HelpGuide for free, evidence-based resources to understand and navigate mental health challenges. Please donate today to help us protect, support, and save lives. Whether the problem is big or small, there are many things you can do to get your sex life back on track. Your sexual well-being goes hand in hand with your overall mental, physical, and emotional health.
Is It Safe to Have Sex During Your Period? Tips, Benefits, and Side Effects
Sex During Periods: Benefits, Side Effects, Pregnancy Risk, and Tips
When should I see a health care professional about painful sex? What kinds of gynecologic conditions can cause pain during sex? Are there things a woman can do on her own to help with pain during sex? Pain during intercourse is very common—nearly 3 out of 4 women have pain during intercourse at some time during their lives. For some women, the pain is only a temporary problem; for others, it is a long-term problem. Pain during sex may be a sign of a gynecologic problem, such as ovarian cysts or endometriosis.
Back to Sexual health. Find out the things you need to ask yourself if you're thinking about having sex. Most people have sex for the first time when they're 16 or older, not before.
We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Though period sex can be a bit messy, it is safe. Orgasms may relieve menstrual cramps. Menstrual cramps are a result of your uterus contracting to release its lining.