Can Orgasms Relieve Period Pain?

Do you take painkillers or hug a hot water bottle when you're on your period? Or maybe you just lie in bed feeling sorry for yourself.

Anyway, period pain is common (our research shows that over 90% of women experience menstrual discomfort at some point in their lives). But, we have good news for you ladies! There's something proven to help relieve period pain... orgasms!

Umm… what?

Yes, it's true. While some women report an increased sex drive during their period, we know that being intimate while bleeding isn't for everyone.

But Mother Nature, in all her wisdom, might be on to something here.

Just before your period, there's a sudden drop in estrogen and progesterone. Once your period arrives, estrogen slowly begins to rise again, while progesterone is still very low. This means you'll have a slightly higher desire for sex during this phase of your cycle. And if you give in to that urge, you'll find that hot water bottle is no longer necessary!

How Can Orgasms Help With Period Pain?

When you orgasm, your body releases a burst of endorphins, including serotonin and dopamine, also known as the "feel-good" hormones. These hormones act as natural painkillers and increase your pain tolerance. You can truly relieve pain with your own natural medicine!

Orgasms also increase blood flow to the uterus, which can help relieve menstrual cramps. It can even help you relieve stress, improve relaxation, and sleep better. Yes, please! (Speaking of stress, read more about how stress affects your period ).

And it's not just sex. Masturbation has the same effect as long as you have an orgasm.

Scientists still don't fully understand the role endorphins play in our bodies, but they do know they're vital in reducing pain and promoting pleasure.

Can you have sex during your period?

Although sex during your period has long been taboo, the answer is yes, you can have sex while on your period.

There's no reason why you should avoid sex (or masturbation) when you're menstruating (unless, of course, you just don't feel like it!)

But a word of warning: you can still get an STD or become pregnant even if you're on your period, so period sex is not an excuse to skip protection!

The power of the 'Big O'

This post is all about orgasms and period pain, but orgasms are generally wonderful for several reasons. This study shows that orgasms can actually help relieve symptoms of stress.

It's important to know that orgasms change in intensity and sensation throughout your cycle. One week your orgasm might be explosive, while the next it might be more subtle.

Before you blame your partner for rushing foreplay, remember that this is completely normal and directly related to the way your hormones change throughout your cycle. If you want to be scientific about it, try tracking your orgasms throughout the month. You might notice a pattern!

Still not convinced?

We don't think you need any more reasons to have sex, but if you're still not even a little curious about the power of orgasms beyond the obvious immediate pleasure, here are six reasons to go wild:

1. It has been scientifically proven that orgasms (through sex or masturbation) help relieve pain.
2. Orgasms can make you feel good and boost your mood through the release of endorphins.
3. Orgasms can lead to better sleep.
4. Orgasms during your period can be stronger and longer. Don't believe us? Give it a try and surprise yourself!
5. Orgasms can potentially shorten your cycle by causing the uterus to contract.
6. It's fun! Is there even another reason needed?

Have more questions about your menstrual health? Chat with us . We're here for you.