Is it taboo or a form of self-care? Masturbation is a private act that has stirred curiosity and controversy for centuries. Defined simply as self-stimulation for sexual pleasure [1], exploring it raises questions on well-being and pleasure. Now, let us delve deeper into this intimate facet of human nature and answer the question, can we masturbate during periods? What unfolds when it intersects with another natural aspect of life—menstruation? Experts highlight an array of benefits to this but also talk about certain tips and precautions at length concerning masturbation during periods.
According to Ayurveda, natural impulses, including masturbation (Hastmaithun), should not be suppressed. Masturbation, in Ayurveda, isn’t trivial; it is seen as a profound act of self-connection, where our inner intentions and desires gather various resources for self-fulfillment.
This act involves harnessing vital energies like Ojas obtained from nourishing foods, the fiery Pitta, fulfillment of Kapha, movement of Vata, desires (Rajas qualities), activation of creativity through tamas, and support from the seven Dhātus governing metabolic functions. Balancing these aspects is pivotal for optimal health, demanding full awareness. However, Ayurveda warns against using masturbation to escape unresolved emotional issues, terming it as mithyāyoga (incorrect use) or atiyoga (excessive use), especially when ritualized or linked to hidden addiction. This misuse confuses and distorts our doshas, dhatus, and mental qualities (gunas), and depletes our vital energy, Ojas.
Can you Masturbate During Menstruation?
There is a prevailing misconception that menstrual blood is somehow impure or harmful, steeped in social stigmas within certain cultures. Yet, it is crucial to dispel this myth—menstrual blood unless affected by a blood-borne illness, poses no threat and is not inherently unclean.
Similarly, societal or cultural beliefs often cast a shadow of shame upon masturbation, branding it as morally objectionable. This misplaced stigma may burden individuals, causing them to feel ashamed or conflicted about this natural act. [6]
However, if you are wondering, ‘Can we masturbate during periods?’ from a purely physical perspective, masturbation stands as the safest form of sexual engagement. It sidesteps the risks of unintended pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). [2] Even during menstruation, engaging in self-stimulation is entirely natural, although it may require extra preparation and cleanup. Surprisingly, this practice may yield health benefits, such as mood enhancement and relief from menstrual discomfort.
Benefits of masturbation during periods
1. Has the Potential to Aid Sleep
Apart from the initial rush of oxytocin-inducing relaxation, orgasms also prompt the release of prolactin, a hormone associated with drowsiness. This dual effect of masturbation during periods could contribute to better sleep sans the discomfort of vaginal bleeding, complemented by the physical exertion of the act itself. [4]
2. Gives you an Amplified Orgasmic Experience
Menstrual circumstances often lead to heightened blood flow and increased sensitivity, fostering ideal conditions for more intense and prolonged orgasms. Enhanced arousal and lubrication from increased circulation contribute to a potentially exceptional experience.
3. The cycle is Shortened
Although this requires further research, the premise suggests that sexual activity, solo or partnered, might encourage uterine contractions. When this happens, it pushes out your uterine lining faster than it would come out on its own, thus shortening the menstrual cycle.
4. Pain Relief Beyond Medication
Engaging in masturbation during periods can offer notable relief from menstrual discomfort, in turn rivaling traditional painkillers like Motrin. Through orgasm-induced releases of dopamine and serotonin, the body naturally eases cramps, backaches, headaches, and joint pains. [3]
5. Mood Enhancement
The release of endorphins during orgasm directly correlates with an improved mood, making post-solo sessions and masturbation during periods a gateway to a happier, more relaxed demeanor. [5]
6. Doctor-Approved Pleasure
Embracing masturbation as a normal and healthy sexual activity, experts underscore its safety and pleasure at any point in the menstrual cycle, affirming its intrinsic value as an enjoyable and risk-free practice.
7. Gives you a Healthy Skin
Achieving orgasm boosts skin health by increasing blood flow and opening blood vessels, often leading to a subtle, radiant complexion—the famed post-sex glow. Moreover, the oxytocin released during climax reduces inflammation, potentially diminishing the visibility of blemishes, skin irritations and signs of skin aging. [7]
Tips on masturbation during periods
1. Utilize Menstrual Cups or Discs for Penetration
These products placed higher in the body, can be used during sex as they block blood flow where penetration occurs. Some individuals find added enjoyment due to pressure on their G-spot, yet these items aren’t birth control devices.
2. Focus on External Stimulation
Experiment with stimulating erogenous zones like the clitoris, breasts, neck, thighs, and abdomen using various tools or fingers.
3. Explore Sensation Through Clothing
Enjoy solo pleasure while wearing period panties, using fingers, nails, or a vibrator through the fabric for added sensation.
4. Tampons for Foreplay, but Remove Before Penetration
Wearing a tampon during foreplay is an option, but crucially, remove it before any penetrative action to avoid health concerns. Using tampons may also reduce the risk of endometriosis. [8]
5. Experiment in the Shower or Bath
If worried about mess, try self-exploration in the shower or tub, but keep in mind that showers may reduce natural lubrication.
6. Embrace the Experience
Don’t shy away from the natural aspects; embrace the mess and consider it a liberating experience.
7. Partnered Play during Menstruation
Partnered sex during menstruation can be intimate and offer similar health benefits to solo activities.
8. Mutual Masturbation and Penetration
Involve partners in mutual masturbation or consider penetration as desired; clots or older blood are normal if noticed.
9. Hygiene and Toy Usage
Cover toys with condoms for easy cleanup or have toy cleansing wipes/sprays handy.
Lay towels or invest in moisture-resistant throws to manage potential messes.
10. Consider Oral Sex with Precautions
Oral sex during menstruation can be embraced with proper precautions like dental dams if needed, especially if not fluid-bonded.
Precautions you should take when masturbating during periods
When it comes to sex toys, try opting for toys made from nonporous materials like silicone, ABS hard plastic, metal, or glass, especially during menstruation. These materials allow thorough cleaning, unlike porous options such as TPR, TPE, jelly, rubber, or PVC, which can harbor bacteria and heighten infection risks when used without a condom.
If you are with a partner, remember that menstruation doesn’t shield against STIs. In fact, experts highlight a slightly elevated risk during this time. Diseases like HIV and hepatitis, transmitted through blood, pose a risk if exposed to menstrual blood carrying these viruses. Moreover, the lower acidity in the vagina during menstruation creates a more hospitable environment for infectious microbes to survive. Thus, the move for you and your partner involves mutual disclosure of your current STI status, open communication, and the use of appropriate protection based on that information.
FAQs
1. How to handle cleanup after masturbation during menstruation?
If you opt for a shower, use warm water or a gentle, fragrance-free soap to rinse your vulva, including the labia, clitoris, and clitoral hood. However, avoid cleaning inside your vagina as it is naturally self-cleaning. According to experts, washing the interior of your vagina or douching during any phase of your cycle can upset the vagina’s healthy pH balance. This disruption increases the likelihood of developing troublesome yeast or bacterial infections.
2. What insights does Ayurveda offer about menstruation?
Ayurveda views a woman’s menstrual cycle as a reflection of her overall health, where the characteristics of the cycle and period mirror any existing imbalances within her body.
3. Can masturbation alleviate period cramps?
Yes, orgasms can be beneficial in easing menstrual cramps. When you climax, your body releases oxytocin and dopamine, known for their pain-relieving properties. This surge of blood to the uterus during orgasm can help alleviate cramping. Moreover, it aids in stress reduction, triggering the release of endorphins that promote relaxation and improve sleep.
4. Is excessive masturbation harmful?
According to Ayurveda, excessive or unhealthy indulgence in Hastmaithun can diminish our health by draining our vital essence, known as Ojas. This decline leads to invisible suffering, impacting our mental, emotional, and physical reserves.
5. Are there any risks in masturbating during menstruation?
Engaging in masturbation during menstruation doesn’t pose specific health risks. However, maintaining hygiene practices remains crucial, much like during any other time. It is essential to wash hands thoroughly before and after touching genitals and sanitize any sex toys post-use for cleanliness. If vaginal intercourse occurs during menstruation, birth control remains necessary as pregnancy can still happen after unprotected sex during this time. Moreover, to prevent STIs, employing a barrier method like condoms is vital during sexual activities. For oral sex, using dental dams can effectively safeguard against STIs.
Conclusion
So, in answer to the question, can we masturbate during periods, masturbation during periods offers pain relief, mood enhancement, and potential sleep aid. Expert advice includes hygiene precautions, exploring non-penetrative pleasures, and utilizing menstrual products for comfort. Understanding the balance between self-connection and misuse is crucial, as Ayurveda emphasizes, for maintaining overall well-being during this time.
Disclaimer
This article is written from a health and wellness perspective and is not medical advice.
Kindly seek the help of a certified medical practitioner before initiating any treatment.
References
- Masturbation
- The Role of Masturbation in Healthy Sexual Development: Perceptions of Young Adults
- The Menstrubation Study
- The influence of sexual activity on sleep: A diary study
- Masturbation- A hands on guide
- Can Masturbatory Guilt Lead to Severe Psychopathology: A Case Series
- Associations among physiological and subjective sexual response, sexual desire, and salivary steroid hormones in healthy premenopausal women
- Sexual Activity, Orgasm and Tampon Use Are Associated with a Decreased Risk for Endometriosis
