You’re lying in your bed, feeling bloated, cramping, and horny. Instead of allowing yourself to get frustrated, of course, you have to do something about it.
Then a thought crosses your mind, “Is it safe to masturbate on my period?”
The short answer is yes, but if you want to make the most of your experience and avoid regretting the aftermath, read on.
Why Masturbation Is Safe During Your Period
Masturbation during that time of the month does not pose any health risks, but let’s get real. Some cultural and religious beliefs can affect your views when it comes to anything sexual, and that includes masturbation.
They might say menstrual blood is dirty and can pose some health risks, but neither of these claims is true.
Everyone experiences sexual arousal, and the best and fastest way to relieve it is through masturbation. Because of norms and cultural expectations, this can be a taboo topic.
When it comes to science-backed research and information, there is nothing dirty about menstrual blood, and there is nothing wrong with masturbating during your period. In fact, masturbation during this time of the month can provide you with a lot of benefits.
Benefits of Masturbating During Menstruation
When you are on your period, you know how it feels, like hell. Aside from a higher libido, you might also have a migraine, backache, and cramps. Different studies explain how masturbating can help relieve these menstrual-related issues.
1. Relieves Menstrual Pain
According to Science Alert, the body releases hormones like endorphins, oxytocin, and vasopressin. These hormones strengthen intimacy and bonding while also reducing the sensation of pain, including menstrual cramps, migraines, and backaches.
The International Journal on Sexual Health also explains that orgasms open the cervical canal, which causes the body to push out blood. This process helps alleviate menstrual cramps.
2. Mood-Boosting Effects
Medical News Today states that masturbation improves mood, which can help make you feel less irritated during these days.
Masturbation can also increase the levels of dopamine in your body. Dopamine is a feel-good hormone that affects your movement, motivation, and reward-seeking behavior.
3. Orgasm Can Be Stronger During Menstruation
Are you wondering why you feel more lustful and turned on during your period?
According to Healthline, there are hormonal fluctuations when you are on your period. This explains why you experience changes in your sex drive during this time of the month, and that includes a higher libido.
4. Improved Sleep and Relaxation
Sleepfoundation.org supports the fact that masturbation promotes relaxation and improves sleep quality.
Along with other happy and feel-good hormones, orgasms also release prolactin, which can induce pleasant and relaxing feelings.
5. Lower Risk of Unwanted Pregnancy
Notice that we say “lower risk” not “zero risk.” According to Cleveland Clinic, getting pregnant during your period is still possible, but the risk is lower compared to other days. The fertile window is usually during ovulation, the phase between your menstrual periods.
If you engage in unprotected sex during this time, you can still get pregnant or contract an STI. It’s best to practice safe sex even during your period. If you engage in mutual masturbation with your partner, still use a condom to cover a toy and practice proper hygiene.
It’s best to consult your doctor regarding this especially if your period doesn’t follow a regular menstrual cycle.
Another reason is that masturbation is usually a solo activity, and according to the University of Chile, many couples are not willing to engage in sexual intercourse during menstruation.
How to Masturbate During Your Period
You now know that there’s nothing wrong with masturbating during your period. Now, it’s time to learn how to make the most of the experience.
Menstrual blood can act as a natural lubricant and you can masturbate the same way you do on other days, but pay more attention to hygiene. Avoid vaginal douching, as it can irritate your vagina or lead to an infection.
If you want to achieve orgasm without feeling icky or making a mess, focus on stimulating the external erogenous zones of your body. You can use a toy like BeYourLover’s Joy Cup to stimulate your vulva, nipples, and clitoris.
Although you can also engage in anal stimulation, it’s not advised during a period because of the risk of transferring bacteria. But if you insist, use a condom to cover a toy or wash your hands before touching your vagina.
Also, masturbating in the shower is recommended if you want to simplify the cleanup. It can also provide you with a relaxing environment.
Is It Alright to Masturbate With a Tampon or Menstrual Cup In?
It is safe to masturbate with these inside you, but be careful not to dislodge them. The best way to masturbate with a tampon or menstrual cup inside is through external stimulation. Since tampons and menstrual cups absorb fluid, consider using a lubricant.
Practical Hygiene Tips to Keep Your Surroundings Clean and Stain-Free When You Masturbate
Before you masturbate, make sure you have wet wipes or a damp cloth within reach. You can use these to clean yourself up after the session.
Cover your bed with a dark cloth or towel to protect it from stains. If you want a fast cleanup, as mentioned above, do it in the shower. You may also keep your hands clean by using latex gloves or by covering a toy with a condom.
Are There Potential Risks or Precautions Involved?
Masturbation won’t have negative effects on your overall health and will provide you with tons of benefits. Although some experts say that it can delay your menstruation for a day or two, it’s not a big deal.
“No, it [masturbation] doesn’t affect the menstrual cycle. There is an increase in certain hormone levels in the body then a woman gets aroused. And this may just temporarily delay periods maybe for a day or two” - Dr P. Aishwarya (Gynecologist)
The only higher risk involved is the possibility of contracting an infection, so make sure to wash your hands and toys before and after the session. Also, menstruating or not, it’s best not to masturbate if you have open cuts or sores.
Embrace Self-Care During Masturbation
It is safe to masturbate during your period. It is personal and involves your body. Therefore, the choice is yours.
Don’t let society dictate what you do with your body, and don’t let that time of the month stop you. It’s normal to feel sexual desire; it’s a part of being human.
With simple hygiene practices and by listening to your body, you are free to explore your body and pleasure yourself. For the best vibrators to help with your needs, visit BeYourLover.
References
ScienceAlert. (2019, January 25). Here’s what happens to your body and brain when you orgasm. ScienceAlert. https://www.sciencealert.com/here-s-what-happens-to-your-brain-when-you-orgasm
Gianotten, W. L., Alley, J. C., & Diamond, L. M. (2021). The health benefits of sexual expression. International Journal of Sexual Health, 33(4), 478–493. https://doi.org/10.1080/19317611.2021.1966564
Huizen, J. (2023, February 9). How does masturbation affect the brain? https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/masturbation-effects-on-brain
Watson, S. (2024, December 23). Is it safe to have sex during your period? Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/sex-during-periods
Suni, E., & Suni, E. (2024, February 14). The relationship between sex and sleep. Sleep Foundation. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/physical-health/sex-sleep
Clinic, C. (2025, February 10). This may surprise you — but you can get pregnant on your period. Cleveland Clinic. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/can-you-get-pregnant-on-your-period
Barnnart, K., Furman, I., & Devoto, L. (1995). Attitudes and practice of couples regarding sexual relations during the menses and spotting. Contraception, 51(2), 93–98. https://doi.org/10.1016/0010-7824(94)00014-n
