Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, and everyone is excited about spending the day with someone special. However, many women will have an uninvited visitor during the holiday: Aunt Flo. Does this mean you can’t have fun for Valentine’s Day? Of course not! Don’t let your period get you down; we’ve got some tips on keeping period sex clean, safe, and fun!

A Quick PSA

Don’t think that you can’t get pregnant if you’re on your period. Make sure that you use a condom or other preventatives while on your period. The risk is low, but it’s there, especially if you have a short cycle (like 21 to 24 days). And, of course, always practice safe sex, no matter what time of month it is!

Condoms are especially important during your period because your cervix is slightly open. A condom will provide an extra barrier against bacteria getting into your uterus during sex.

The Best Period Sex Tips

Now for the fun part! Period sex can be a fun and exciting activity to try this Valentine’s Day as long as you take the right steps to make it enjoyable.

Soap Is Your Friend

Some people enjoy “messy” sex, but it can make other people self-conscious, which is entirely okay! If you think you’ll feel more comfortable, take a quick shower before you get in bed to be as fresh as you can. You can even take this tip a bit further and try having sex in the shower because that will wash everything away in the moment. With this approach, you won’t have to worry about a thing.

Protect Your Bed (Or Couch…Or Wherever)

If you’re worried about getting blood on your furniture, lay a towel, rag, or old blanket down underneath you before you get busy. This will provide an extra layer of protection for your mattress or couch cushions, which can help ease your mind and let you focus on having fun instead of worrying whether you have stain remover on hand.

Try Different Positions

While women are menstruating, we’re typically more sensitive down there. This heightened sensitivity can make arousal easier and orgasms more intense. Some women like to use this to their advantage and try new positions because they’re more in the mood to get creative. Play around with different positions, depths, foreplay, and more to maximize this extra sensitivity. Notice you’re a little too sensitive? Consider more gentle positions like spooning or missionary to keep from getting uncomfortable if the deeper penetration is too much.

Have the Right Products on Hand for After

While period sex isn’t that much messier than regular sex for many people, people stress this part. Just make sure you have some baby wipes or feminine wipes on hand afterward to clean up any mess. Then, grab your Maeves Pads and cuddle up with your love, knowing you’ll be dry and comfortable for an extended cuddle session.  

Only about 55 percent of women say they have sex during their period. If you’re faced with the decision this year, embrace the “try everything once” mindset and try it. You may be surprised at how fun it can be!